Today, Chapel Street in Farnworth is a quiet stretch, home to little more than the back of a care home. But rewind a few decades, and this unassuming spot was buzzing with life, playing host to some of the biggest names in music and entertainment.
From Motown legends to rave pioneers, the venue that started as Club Monaco in the 1960s evolved through several identities – Blighty’s, City Lites, and Pleasuredrome – leaving behind stories that still echo through Farnworth’s nightlife history.
Club Monaco – where it all began
In the 1960s, Club Monaco opened its doors, offering two floors of entertainment connected by a grand, sprawling staircase.
- Downstairs – A classic nightclub experience.
- Upstairs – A hotspot for teddy boys and young crowds.
It was the place to be – but by the early 70s, the venue was ready for a transformation.
Blighty’s – Farnworth’s golden era of entertainment
The 1970s marked the club’s peak as it rebranded to Blighty’s, becoming a household name not just in Bolton but across the region.
In 1972, The Four Tops performed at the club, with tickets priced at a staggering £1.50. For those lucky enough to witness it, it was a night to remember.
Other acts that graced Blighty’s stage included:
- Tommy Cooper
- Bob Monkhouse
- Slade – who performed despite hundreds of rockers turning up, breaking the club’s strict dress code requiring men to wear ties.
Food was also part of the experience – with staples like chicken in a basket (50p) and jacket potatoes (8p) keeping partygoers fuelled.
City Lites – lasers, lights, and under-18 discos
As the 1980s rolled in, the venue evolved once more, becoming City Lites – reflecting the neon, high-energy vibe of the decade.
The club was known for its mind-blowing laser shows – a rarity at the time for venues outside of Manchester.
City Lites also became the go-to spot for Sunday night under-18 discos, cementing its reputation with a younger crowd.
In 1986, The Housemartins performed a 20-minute set for ITV’s Hold Tight, hosted by Peter Simon – marking yet another chapter in the club’s star-studded history.
Pleasuredrome – the rise of rave culture
By the 1990s, rave culture had taken hold, and the club rebranded for the final time as Pleasuredrome.
In 1991, The Prodigy took to the stage, performing their debut hit Charly to a packed crowd of ravers.
The following year, Pete Waterman brought The Hitman and Her to Pleasuredrome for a rave special featuring performances by:
- New Atlantic
- Dream Frequency
- Jorinde Williams (Oceanic)
- Dave Shaw (Love Decade)
The venue’s resident DJ at the time was Paul Welding (DJ Welly), a figure who would later become integral to the legendary Bowlers in Trafford Park.
The club’s demise and birth of Bowlers
Despite its success, Pleasuredrome’s run was cut short in 1992 after a police raid uncovered evidence of drug activity. The club’s licence was revoked, leading to its closure.
Determined to keep the spirit alive, DJ Welly and other key figures moved on to establish Bowlers – a venue that would become synonymous with Manchester’s rave scene.
Since opening, Bowlers has hosted countless events, from Madchester nights to The Happy Mondays and Soul II Soul.
What happened to the Farnworth venue?
After its closure, the former nightclub sat derelict for years before being demolished. In 2002, a care home was built on the site, marking a stark contrast to the club’s vibrant history.
A legacy that lives on
For those who remember Blighty’s, City Lites, or Pleasuredrome, the venue holds fond memories of music, laughter, and unforgettable nights.
Farnworth’s nightlife may have quieted, but the stories of The Four Tops, Slade, The Prodigy, and many others still linger – a reminder of a time when world-class entertainment could be found just around the corner.
Did you ever visit Blighty’s, City Lites, or Pleasuredrome? Share your memories of Farnworth’s legendary nightclub in the comments.