Bury

Saturday 20th August 2022

Time (approx)	Location
11:55	Manchester Piccadilly tram stop (downstairs below the train station). Meet on the tram platform.
12:01 — 12:39	Tram to Bury
12:45 — 13:30	Art Picture House	Food available
13:30 — 14:00	Thirsty Fish
14:00 — 15:00	Trackside	Food available
15:00 — 15:45	Broad Street Social
15:45 — 16:15	Automatic
16:25 — 16:34	Tram to Heaton Park
16:40 — 17:20	Goods In	Food available
17:28 — 17:51	Tram to Piccadilly

Art Picture House 12:45 — 13:30

36 Haymarket Street, Bury, BL9 0AY Map
FOOD AVAILABLE

This is a striking grade II listed building. Above the first-floor windows on the left (as you face the building) are the words Art Pictures and on the right Art Cafe. The word ART could once be seen, in red letters, high up on the central pediment. The three-storey building is the former Art Picture House, described by The Theatres Trust as 'a fine example of an early 1920s cinema, exceptionally theatrical in its plan and decoration'. It was completed in 1923.

The large seating area is on two levels with several private booths facing the back bar. Busy at lunchtimes on market days (Wednesday and Friday). Food is available all day every day from 8am-11pm. As expected for a JD Wetherspoons pub, there are a good selection of ales available.

Thirsty Fish 13:30 — 14:00

Unit 1A Princess Parade, Millgate Shopping Centre, Bury, BL9 0QL Map

A true Micro Bar opened in June 2018 in a former shop unit on the outside of the Millgate centre. The Thirsty Fish is adjacent to the famous Bury Market and also close to Bury Interchange, so very handy for the bus and Metrolink. The bar sells up to six changing real ales. It has a good selection of continental lagers.

Trackside 14:00 — 15:00

Bolton Street Station, East Lancs Railway, Bury, BL9 0EY Map

The Trackside combines some excellent ales with the nostalgia of the East Lancs. Railway. At the bar, 11 handpumps are permanently in use serving varying guest ales. Various craft keg beers are dispensed via taps on the back of the bar with foreign bottle beers also on offer. It is the current CAMRA Branch Cider Pub of the Year 2022 with up to 8 real ciders and these are dispensed via gravity from the cellar.

For those wanting a close- up railway experience the station platform just outside has seating under a roof canopy creating a sun trap with wall heaters for cooler weather.

Broad Street Social 15:00 — 15:45

9 Broad Street, Bury, BL9 0DA Map

New Brewsmith Brewery Tap, opened 28th August 2020. Tastefully renovated and equipped, the pub is open plan and has been stripped back to the bare brickwork allowing those with an archaeological interest to see the phases in the building's history. 6 Handpumps on the bar serving a variety of the Brewsmith range including the ever-popular Oatmeal Stout, one guest cask is always available. Craft taps are on as well serving various guest keg beers.

Automatic 15:45 — 16:15

Derby Halls, 36 Market Street, Bury, BL9 0BW Map

This welcoming independent bar and restaurant shares the Derby Hall with two theatres. The Malt Bar, with the use of glass, gives a complete view of the beer cellar and its small electric hoist and pulley system, and also provides an overspill at busy times for dining area. In the evening it becomes a lovely, quiet, cosy space to enjoy a pint. The Cafe does get busy at times and priority may be given to diners at lunchtime. Relaxed, safe and comfortable, this a popular choice for all. Four real ales and a wide selection of bottles. Brightside Chuck and Odin are regular beers.

We will then depart Bury on the 16:25 tram to Heaton Park, arriving at 16:34

Goods In 16:40 — 17:20

Stella House, Unit 2A, Infant Street, Prestwich, M25 1SS Map

An innocuous looking small door in a wall opposite the Heaton Park Metrolink stop leads into a very large shed structure well kitted out with a mixture of tables, chairs and comfy booths. The bar is on the left as you enter and supports three handpumps, serving a variety of beers from small breweries such as Saltaire and Magic Rock.

There's a small tap wall behind the bar and adjacent is a case with bottled and canned beers and wines - these attract a corkage charge if drunk on the premises. There is a wide range of meals and snacks available throughout the day.

Preston

Saturday 26th March 2022

Time (approx)	Location
11:11 - 12:23	Train Hazel Grove to Blackpool. Travelling from Stockport to Preston via Manchester Piccadilly and Bolton.
12:25 - 13:00	Old Vic	No food on Saturdays
13:00 - 13:30	Plug & Taps	No
13:30 - 14:15	Grey Friar	Food available
14:15 - 14:45	Vinyl Tap	1pm - 10pm
14:45 - 15:15	Plau	10am - 2.30pm and 5pm - 9.30pm
15:15 - 15:45	Friargate Tap Room	No
15:45 - 16:15	Orchard	No
16:15 - 16:45	Guild Ale House	No
16:45 - 17:15	Winckley Street Ale House	12noon - 2.30pm and 5.30pm - 8pm
17:54 - 19:01	Train Blackpool to Hazel Grove. Travelling from Preston to Stockport via Manchester Bolton and Piccadilly.

Old Vic 12:25 — 13:00

79 Fishergate, Preston, PR1 2UH Map

This pub is handily located opposite the railway station and on bus routes into the city. With rolling live updates of train departures showing inside this makes a welcoming retreat for those waiting for a train or needing to while away an hour or two due to unexpected delays.

It's a popular pub that can get busy at weekends with a number of TVs showing sports events and is also a rare city centre pub for darts enthusiasts. To the rear is an outdoor decked smoking area and a car park (only available on Sunday and in the evenings).

Seven hand pumps offer a good range of beers in the area, with local microbreweries usually represented.

Plug & Taps 13:00 — 13:30

32 Lune Street, Preston, PR1 2NN Map

Craft Beer/Real Ale bar consisting of seven keg lines and four hand pumps, as well as a large can and bottle fridge with occasional real cider boxes. Changing beers from anywhere in the country and internationally. Beers from both Rivington and Cloudwater have been seen regularly since the start of 2022. There are also occasional Tap Takeovers from various breweries.

Large function room upstairs with a jukebox, which has air con for the warm weather and an outside seating area in summer or in warm weather.

Located just 300 meters from the railway station. Opened 21st June 2018. Used to be a hairdressers shop opposite the Corn Exchange/1842. Meeting place of the Preston Beer Girls group.

Awarded the branch Pub of the Season for Autumn 2019.

Grey Friar 13:30 — 14:15       FOOD AVAILABLE

144 Friargate, Preston, PR1 2EJ Map

Modern open-plan Wetherspoon pub with raised areas to the side and rear. Preston's students and citizens, both young and old, appreciate the range of ales and food at good prices. The social mix creates a bustling atmosphere and the bar can get extremely busy at weekends. Alcohol served from 9am daily.

The guest beers vary in both style and strength, but frequently tend towards the stronger end of the scale.

This pub is signed up to the CAMRA voucher scheme

Vinyl Tap 14:15 — 14:45

28 Adelphi Street, Preston, PR1 7BE Map

Single room bar adjacent to the University. Formerly known as Hearts of Oak, then the Variety it reopened on 8th September 2018 and has been re-named Vinyl Tap. There are six real ale pumps on the bar, including their house beer from Kirkby Lonsdale brewery, vinyl themed events and a vinyl-style jukebox where people can pick and chose vinyl from an ever-growing collection or bring their own to be played while enjoying a drink and a bite to eat with a wide range of authentic German hotdogs available from 4pm.

Awarded the Central Lancashire CAMRA Most Improved Pub of the Year 2019.

Plau 14:45 — 15:15

115 Friargate, Preston, PR1 2EE Map

The Plau opened in November 2018 after more than three years of careful and sensitive restoration of the building which dates from the18th century. The name recalls the fact that the Plough Inn occupied the property in the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries, which finally closed as a licensed premises in 1923. The resurrection after 95 years of closure must be one of the longest gaps in the country.

The main bar is spread over three levels on the ground floor. A further two bars are in the Vault Bar (an original vaulted brick cellar including a restored and exposed 40 feet stone-built well) and on the first floor serving the dining room overlooking Friargate.

Four cask ales are available, one being the house ale "1668" supplied by Kirstall Brewery and the other three sourced from a wide range of microbreweries (Withnell's and Avid beers have been noted recently) are served in the main bar with one in each of the other bars. Four craft keg beers were available with beers from Chainhouse, Liquid Light and Fierce noted late last year.

Friargate Tap Room 15:15 — 15:45

66 Friargate, Preston, PR1 2AT Map

Friargate Tap Room opened in August 2021 and is one of Preston's newest additions to the real ale scene. With up to three cask ales on handpump looking to showcase a variety of beers including some regional ales. Beers from Bowness Bay, Cross Bay, 3B's and Moorhouses are to be seen regularly.

Located on Friargate in one of the fastest growing real ale destinations of the city this is another welcome addition with plenty of seating indoors and outdoor seating also available for those warmer days.

Orchard 15:45 — 16:15

Earl Street, Preston, PR1 2JA Map

The Orchard was opened in early March 2018, a sister pub to the Guild Ale House. Located within the Grade II listed covered market the decor/framework is of wood recycled from the old market trestle boards plus lots of modern glass. No food but there is plenty on the neighbouring market, which can be ordered and taken in.

Three cask beers are available together with six craft keg. Beers from both local and national breweries rotate on a regular basis.

Guild Ale House 16:15 — 16:45

56 Lancaster Road, Preston, PR1 1DD Map

Preston's first micropub, which opened in Feb 2016 just a few doors away from Preston's Guild Hall complex. The main room has a range of seating and the high ceilings give a light and airy feel. A small lounge is tucked away to the rear and there is a comfortable lounge upstairs.

Seven changing beers, mainly local or from Yorkshire are served including one dark beer. A range of continental beers in keg and bottle.

No jukebox, music, TV, or food, but live acoustic on Sunday afternoons.

Local CAMRA Pub of the Year 2018 and 2020.

Winckley Street Ale House 16:45 — 17:15

88 Winckley Street, Preston, PR1 2AA Map

In November 2018, this premises opened as the Otter's Pocket and was a single room bar and restaurant occupying the whole ground floor of a former shop. The menu specialised in 'real pies' and had three changing cask ales mainly from microbreweries available as well as a range of craft keg.

March 2020 saw the pub closed undergoing renovation and has since reopened as the Winckley Street Ale House offering a wider menu and great range of beers with up to four regularly changing cask ales and up to ten keg lines with a strong focus on local/regional breweries.

 

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Macclesfield

Saturday 30th October 2021

Time (approx)	Location
11:57 - 12:17	Train Stockport to Macclesfield	Piccadilly 11:44, Cheadle Hulme 12:01, Bramhall 12:04
12:20 - 13:00	Waters Green Tavern
13:00 - 13:40	The Castle
13:40 - 14:30	Jack in the Box	Food available
14:30 - 15:20	The Society Rooms	Food available
15:20 - 16:00	RedWillow
16:00 - 16:40	The Fountain
16:40 - 17:10	Jolly Sailor
17:10 - 17:40	Treacle Tap
18:18 - 18:38	Train Macclesfield to Stockport	Bramhall 18:31, Cheadle Hulme 18:35, Piccadilly 18:52
	There are other trains back to Stockport at 17:18 stopper, 18:01 & 18:06 - these are direct.

Waters Green Tavern 12:20 - 13:00

96 Waters Green, Macclesfield, SK11 6LH Map

Open plan with two distinct seating areas and a pool room, this pub has been run by landlord Brian for over 30 years and along with the other bar staff are all very enthusiastic about the range of beers that are served here. These are, in general, pale beers from northern brewers and number up to seven, also a real cider or perry is available. This multi award winner is very close to both railway and bus stations and an ideal starting or finishing point for a Macclesfield crawl, the open fire providing a warm welcome on cold days.

The Castle 13:00 - 13:40

25 - 27 Church Street, Macclesfield, SK11 6LB Map

Re-opened Friday 24th September 2021 after a long closure period.

An untouched, timeless and now rare example of an old-fashioned town pub. On the CAMRA National Inventory of historic pub interiors. Whitened brick, 18th century pub tucked away on a cobbled street.

It probably started life as late 18th century cottages which were subsequently remodelled. The quaint exterior belies its inner proportions, which are equally charming. There are leaded lights, moulded plaster ceilings, copper-topped tables, wooden settles, brasses and even a grandmother clock, dotted throughout its warren of little rooms. The star feature, however, is the wonderful hatch bar reminiscent of a traditional, bowed, shop window, full of spirit miniatures and old beer bottles.

On the right as you enter is a tiny vault, with a narrow lounge on the left. Past the bar is another lounge or snug on the right, this room has something of a conservatory feel, due to the presence of a glass roof. At the far end is a larger, raised area. Since re-opening three handpumps are in use with beers from Storm Brewing, Redwillow and Marble seen in early October. See www.heritagepubs.org.uk for other national inventory pubs.

Jack in the Box 13:40 - 14:30

Picturedrome, 102 -104 Chestergate, Macclesfield, SK11 6DU Map

A Blackjack Brewery bar in the relevantly new Picturedrome, a multi-outlet food hall located in a classic former cinema. There are up to eight hand-pumps serving Blackjack beers and others from local microbrewery's. In addition there are ten keg lines and a good selection of real ciders in boxes.

You can enjoy your drinks with a meal in the main food area or there are a few tables directly in front of the bar. Other alcoholic drinks are available from adjacent Reserve Wines.

The bar does not sell food itself but there is a wide choice of food in the Picturedrome.

The Society Rooms 14:30 - 15:20

Park Green, Macclesfield, SK11 7NA Map

Large centrally located stone built Wetherspoon conversion of 18th century Vicarage and College known as the Useful Knowledge Society from which the pubs name is derived. An adjacent technical college built in 1900 as an annexe to the college has also been incorporated into the pub.

Management and staff are cask beer orientated and the pub holds occasional beer festivals sponsoring local micros e.g. Hawkshead, Thornbridge, Oakham and Wentworth.

The pub is well divided internally with a number of partitioned areas seating ranges from stools and chairs to sofas. During the day and early evening, the pub is popular with shoppers and families enjoying the good value food and drinks. The 4 guest beers often include a local beer with Mobberley, Coach House and Brightside being seen recently.

RedWillow 15:20 - 16:00

32a Park Green, Macclesfield, SK11 7NA Map

Sensitive conversion of former shop premises with original windows and parquet flooring contrasting nicely with the modern look of the wood and copper bar servery. Copper is also employed to support lighting throughout the bar area and artistically deployed in the toilets. Fixed seating is provided to the right side of the bar with a mixture of free-standing seating and tables in the centre of the room.

Five handpumps dispense RedWillow beers and changing guest beers from other micros. The beer selection, together with pricing for pint, half and third measures, is clearly displayed on a wide screen above the bar, reflecting the owner's former IT connections. There are fourteen craft/keg beers available from RedWillow, collaborations, UK micros and further afield. Don't expect to find national brand lagers and stouts on offer here!

There is one ever changing real cider. Food (pizzas and cheese/charcuterie boards) available until 9pm (7pm Friday & Saturday).

The Fountain 16:00 - 16:40

32 Park Green, Macclesfield, SK11 7NA Map

Opened early October, the fourth establishment owned by Bollington brewery.

A large open plan café bar located in an old Bathstore.

Five Bollington beers are available on cask as well as a range of keg beers.

Jolly Sailor 16:40 - 17:10

63 Sunderland Street, Macclesfield, SK11 6HN Map

A much-improved cosy town centre pub renowned for one of the best pints of Bass around. Although essentially an open plan single room pub, it's divided into four distinct areas which works well with comfy sofas intermingled with more traditional seating and real fire. Special note should be made of an original and working Space Invaders machine. Four hand-pumps in excellent condition can be found on the central bar serving three permanent beers and a guest. In the words of the licensee, a traditional boozer.

During your visit to 'The Jolly' you will notice our unique, somewhat eclectic décor. We have several items of interest dotted about the pub such as antique items, old signage and advertising slogans all collected and proudly displayed by our rather eccentric landlord! For those interested in the history of the town there are quite a few pictures adorning our walls depicting Macclesfield as it was a century or more ago. There is always something of interest to look at and talk about.

This pub serves three regular beers, Castle Rock Harvest Pale, Draught Bass and Everards Tiger. Guest beers from Laine brewery, Timothy Taylors and Moorhouse's have recently been seen on the bar.

Treacle Tap 17:10 - 17:40

43 Sunderland Street, Macclesfield, SK11 6JL Map

Reopened after being closed for about 500 days because of the 2020/21 Coronavirus pandemic there has been a warm welcome to this popular bar. Named after Macclesfield's nickname of Treacletown.

In the premises formerly occupied by a saddlery shop, the narrow building has a boarded floor, simple wooden tables and chairs on each side and a bar at the rear. The joint licensees are Bronwyn Riley and her husband Tim Sedgwick. Three hand-pumps serve an interesting constantly rotating range of local beers. The Tap is designed to be a welcoming place to drop in for a drink at any time while in town, so the menus list the wide range, not only of wines and foreign beers, but also of teas and coffees and soft drinks.

Credits:

A mix of www.whatpub.com and each pubs own social media.

 

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Old Glossop

Saturday 7th March 2020

Depart Manchester Piccadilly	11:33
Arrive Glossop	12:03

Bulls Head

102 Church Street, Glossop, SK13 7RN Map

Nestled in the heart of the small pretty village of Old Glossop and close to Glossop and Manchester, The Bulls head is a stylish and comfortable country inn that dates back to the 16th century and still retains a traditional charm.

What could be better than warming yourself next to a roaring log fire in the winter, enjoying a slap-up meal, or unwinding with a glass of wine outside on a warm summer's evening. The Bulls Head has it all. Here history and tradition blend with stylish modernity to make sure the Bulls Head gives our customers what they want - all the comfort and cosiness of a country pub, good food and drink and all mod cons, such as free WiFi.

Beers from Marble, Thornbridge, Peak Ales, Robinsons and Howard Town have been seen recently

The Wheatsheaf

16 Well Gate, Glossop, SK13 7RS Map

Traditional village pub in a great location with fabulous views over the Peak District from the front terrace. A large food menu is available.

Three beers are to be seen on the bar with a regular from Howard Town.

Howard Town Brewery Tap

Hope Street, Glossop, SK13 7SS Map

This tap room at Howard Town Brewery now opens regular hours every weekend. Normally 4 to 5 Howard Town beers on offer. Opening hours may increase in future. Cheese platters available.

Queens Arms

1 Shepley Street, Glossop, SK13 7RZ Map

A traditional, warm and welcoming pub in a historic area of Old Glossop which caters for walkers from the nearby hill walking areas in addition to the locals and visitors from far and wide. Local CAMRA branch Derbyshire Pub of the Season for 2017 attests to the quality of the ales. Food is popular particularly the upstairs Indian restaurant - takeaways available.

There are 5 regular beers: Joseph Holt Bitter, Morland Old Speckled Hen, Oakham Citra, Thornbridge Jaipur IPA and Wainwright. Three other handpumps dispense local beers from Peak Ales and as well as national breweries.

One or two other pubs may also be done around Glossop station.

Trains back to Piccadilly run twice hourly at 22 and 52 minutes past the hour.

 

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Wandering in Wigan

Saturday 8th February 2020

 

Transport	Time	Notes
Stockport station	11:05
Manchester Piccadilly	11:16
Arrive Wigan	11:53
Location	Time (approx)
The Raven Hotel	12:00	Food is available here
The Anvil	13:00
Tap 'n' Barrel	13:30
John Bull Chophouse	14:00
Berkeley	14:45
Swan & Railway	15:15
Wigan Central	16:00
Transport	Time
Return from Wigan Wallgate	16:50 & 17:49	Direct
Return from Wigan North Western	17:23	Change at Piccadilly

The Raven Hotel — 12:00 - 13:00

5 Wallgate, Wigan WN1 1LD Map

Reopened Christmas 2012 after having a full refurbishment and revealing its traditional decor. A superb example of an early 1900's Commercial Hotel.

Five handpumps offering real ale plus two more offering real cider (usually Black Dragon from Gwynnt Y Ddraig and a guest).

Tetley Cask Bitter is always available, along with one other "bitter", two blonde beers and a dark beer. Recent sightings on the bar include ales from Abbeydale, Bank Top and Lancaster Brewery.

Really cosy in winter with proper coal fires and two unobtrusive televisions. Many of the original features are retained including panelling, windows. Voted a Wigan Pub of the Season in 2013. Serves good home made pub grub.

The Anvil — 13:00 - 13:30

Dorning Street, Wigan WN1 1ND Map

Popular town-centre pub close to the bus station which has seven handpumps and offers various guest beers plus six draught continental ales and a range of bottled beers. Two Real Ciders also available. It has a heated smoking terrace to the rear. Televisions show sport. Only over 18s allowed in the pub.

The Anvil serves three regular beers, Banks's Mild, Brakspear Oxford Gold, Thwaites Wainwright. There are usually four guest ales on with ales from Phoenix, Moorhouses, Reedley Hallows and Salopian seen recently.

Tap 'n' Barrel — 13:30 - 14:00

16 Jaxon's Court, Wigan WN1 1LR Map

A microbar in a town centre mews style street giving it an interesting position. It has a pleasant 'artificial' under cover, smoke free garden, which makes for a nice change.

The Bar, when opened acted as the Martland Mill Brewery Tap, however the brewery has now been sold with the Tap 'n' Barrel now free of tie.

Up to six changing ales can be seen on the bar with ales from The Coach House Brew Co, Settle Brewery and Hophurst noted recently. There are up to four real ciders available.

John Bull Chophouse — 14:00 - 14:45

2 Coopers Row, Market Place, Wigan WN1 1PQ Map

Thwaites Awards for Excellence 2017 - Voted both Thwaites Pub of the Year and Best Pint.

If you're visiting Wigan, this unique pub has to be on your list. Whether you're after a quiet evening pint or a vibrant nightlife venue. This 300+ year old building has been cottages, stables and a slaughter house in the past but now a popular town centre pub, run by the same family for over 40 years. Six handpumps downstairs selling cask beer plus continental beers. In addition a large range of bottled beers, a wine list, three draught ciders, large range of specialist whiskeys on the whiskey bar and 20 bottles of specialist rum are available.

There are two floors, toilets upstairs limit wheelchair access to WC but not the beer. The Hop House now occupies the First floor offering another six Cask Ales and four Craft Beers. There are five electric sockets for public use with USB connections for charging. Music from the juke box is piped upstairs. It's a Grade II listed building. Casque marque accredited.

Berkeley — 14:45 - 15:15

27-29 Wallgate, Wigan WN1 1LD Map

The Berkeley is a former coaching house opposite Wallgate rail station and three minutes from Wigan North Western.

A large open plan bar with multiple tv screens but with a traditional feel to it. Sports and other black and white photographs from the 50s & 60s adorn the walls. A choice of six casks are available on the bar.

Swan & Railway — 15:15 - 16:00

80 Wallgate, Wigan WN1 1BA Map

Re opened in September 2019 by new owner John Brearley, the pub has been sympathetically renovated. There is an impressive stained glass window in the pub and a collection of old photos of the town, the railway and rugby league.

Built in 1898 by WEV Crompton, this beautiful classic period pub has seven handpumps celebrating Draught Bass along with Banks Sunbeam, Courage Directors and Daleside Blonde. It also supports local Breweries by regularly serving beers from Hophurst, Prospect, Wily Fox and Wigan Brewhouse. Grade II listed.

Wigan Central — 16:00 - 16:30

Arch No. 1 & 2, Queen Street, Wigan WN3 4DY Map

Customers are assured a very warm welcome from this Wigan real ale pub, owned by Prospect Brewery. The real ales are sourced from all over with one regular, Prospect Totem and six rotating guests. Chapter 18, Mallinsons and Kirkstall have all been seen recently. There is a continental bottled beer library for those wanting something different.

It has a railway themed interior with live departure and arrival boards for both Wigan stations. It is a delight, and has quite a cosy feel to it.

Awarded Best New Cask Outlet 2015 and Wigan Pub and Cider Pub of the Year 2018, also Greater Manchester CAMRA's Pub of the Year 2017 and Runner up in the National Pub of the Year competition.

 

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Chorley

Saturday 5th October 2019

Transport	Time	Notes
Stockport station	12:11
Manchester Piccadilly	12:29
Arrive Chorley	13:06
Location	Time (approx)
Shepherds Hall Ale House	13:10 - 13:45
Sir Henry Tat	13:45 - 14:30	Wetherspoons so food available
Flat Iron	14:30 - 15:00
Bob Inn	15:00 - 15:30
Ale Station	15;30 - 16:00
Railway	16:00 - 16:30
Malt 'n' Hops	16:30 - 17:00
Transport	Time
Option 1, depart Chorley	17:34	Change at Manchester Piccadilly
Option 2, depart Chorley	18:06	Direct

Shepherds Hall Ale House — 13:10 - 13:45

67 Chapel Street, PR7 1BS

Opened in august 2014, Chorley's first micropub has been tastefully converted from a shop and utilises fittings from other closed pubs in the town.

Up to 5 changing beers are served mainly from smaller breweries from across the country, although a LocAle can also be seen. Two ciders are also served - normally one traditional one and another being fruit flavoured.

Sir Henry Tate — 13:45 - 14:30

New Market Street, PR7 1DB

A purpose built pub trading under the Lloyd's banner situated next to Booth's supermarket on the main town centre car park. Typical of the Wetherspoon's chain, this pub offers value food and low beer prices.

The pub is on two levels and has an outside drinking area to the front. The main bar (downstairs) features the five regular beers plus five guests, with beers from Moorhouse's and Phoenix often featuring. The two changing real ciders are served from boxes behind the bar.

The smaller upstairs bar normally has up to five changing beers available.

To reflect local tastes, the beers tend to be of lower gravity than is often found in Wetherspoon's pubs. This pub is signed up to the CAMRA voucher scheme.

Flat Iron — 14:30 - 15:00

21 Cleveland Street, PR7 1BH

Refurbished late 2016 and having a change of name ( previously the Market Tavern ), this is a smart town centre pub and a great addition to the growing real ale scene in Chorley.

In addition to the mild, there are up to 4 guest beers - mainly from local breweries. These will normally include a mild, a strong ale - Phoenix Wobbly Bob is often on, and a range of lighter session beers.

This pub featured in the very first CAMRA Good Beer Guide in 1974 when it was described as a 'true drinker's pub' and served beers from Tetley Warrington.

Bob Inn — 15:00 - 15:30

24 Market Place, PR7 1DA

A tiny bar housed in a market stall, this is certainly the smallest pub in the branch area. Outside seating is available during warmer weather and drinkers often spill over into the market area. This is a pub where conversation and banter is an important part of the experience. An adjacent unit now forms a lounge area separate from the main bar.

With 3 ever changing cask beers sourced from smaller breweries and at least two ciders along with a good selection of (mainly) Belgian bottled beers there is something for every taste.

Unusually for a micropub there is a full range of drinks including spirits. No food, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Ale Station — 15;30 - 16:00

60 Chapel Street, PR7 1BS

The third micropub to open in Chorley, this bar is conveniently situated adjacent to the bus station and just across the road from the railway station. A modern looking venue with a wine bar feel, this inviting pub offers a full range of drinks.

Six changing real ales are served mainly sourced from north western micro breweries, although expect to find others from far and wide. There are also two changing real ciders.

A state-of-the-art digital display board provides full price information and real ale details, in addition to updated train times for the railway traveller. Pictures of old Chorley adorn the walls.

Railway — 16:00 - 16:30

20 Steeley Street, PR6 0RD

Adjacent to the railway station and 100 yards from the bus station, this is a community local that offers a changing range of up to five real ales from the Marston's portfolio.

A single corner bar serves different drinking areas and a separate pool alcove. Darts, dominoes and pool are popular with the locals, along with seasonal music festivals, Live music (rock, blues, ska, reggae, Indie, Soul) features on Saturday nights and the occasional Friday.

Malt 'n' Hops — 16:30 - 17:00

50 - 52 Friday Street, PR6 0AA

Converted from an old shop in 1989, it is handily situated for both the railway and bus stations. A single L-shaped bar on two levels with a bright yet traditional feel.

A genuine free house; there are up to seven guest ales usually sourced from Lancashire and Yorkshire micros, with Rat, Ossett, Elland, Lancaster and Blackedge often featuring. Good value filled rolls and pork pies are usually available.

There is a pleasant beer garden at the rear with a heated smoking shelter.

Branch Pub of the Year 2016/17. Lancashire Branches Pub of the Year 2017.

The local CAMRA branch has produced a Chorley Pub Guide, downloadable at https://centrallancs.camra.org.uk/dl.php?id=102133 in pdf format.

 

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Lancaster

Saturday 3th August 2019

Location	Time (approx)	Notes
Stockport station	10:38
Manchester Piccadilly	10:50
Arrive Lancaster	11:55
Merchant's 1688	12:00 - 13:00	Food menu available here.
Three Mariners	13:00 - 13:45
Sun Hotel	13:45 - 14:30
Stonewell Tap	14:30 - 15:00
The Borough	15:00 - 15:30	Cash is no longer accepted, card only.
White Cross	15:30 - 16:15
The Tap	16:15 - 16:45
Ye Olde John O'Gaunt	16:45 - 17:15
Depart Lancaster	17:28	Change at Manchester Piccadilly
Depart Lancaster	17:38	Direct
Depart Lancaster	17:46	Change at Manchester Piccadilly
Depart Lancaster	18:28	Change at Manchester Piccadilly

Merchant's 1688 — 12:00 - 13:00

29 Castle Hill, Lancaster LA1 1YN

Converted wine merchant's cellars built in 1688. A large outdoor drinking area leads to the entrance / bar area, three tunnels are off this area, one being a restaurant and the other two drinking / eating areas.

Old School Blonde is the only regular of the 8 ales available. Beers from Old School Brewery, Tirril, Allendale and Kirkby Lonsdale have been seen recently.

Food menu available via the link https://merchants1688.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Autumn-Winter-2018-edited.pdf

Three Mariners — 13:00 - 13:45

Bridge Lane, Lancaster LA1 1EE

Claims to be the oldest pub in the city dating from the 15th century but the history books first show it in 1778. Renovated a few times over the years, it received a comprehensive revamp in 2004.

A popular pub with the locals, nine ales can be found with Oakham Citra, Robinsons Dizzy Blonde and Hawkshead Bitter are the regulars.

Lunesdale CAMRA pub of the year 2017 & 2019.

The Sun Hotel & Bar — 13:45 - 14:30

63-65 Church St, Lancaster LA1 1ET

Over 300 years old, the Sun hotel and bar was acquired by Lancaster Brewery in 2003 taking ten weeks to renovate. An extension into the next building was completed in 2005.

The décor combines a mixture of original stone walls, beams, window frames and wood panelling. Existing stone fireplaces have also been retained.

Up to ten ales can be found on the bar with four from Lancaster plus their seasonal with five rotating guests.

Stonewell Tap — 14:30 - 15:00

8-10 Church Street, Lancaster LA1 1NP

Formerly the White horse, the building dates back to the 17th Century. Large modern big windows and spartan furnishings give this old pub a modern look. Acquired by the owners of Merchants 1688 and the White Cross in 2017, four handpumps are on the bar with beers from Tirril, Allendale and Old school brewery regularly seen.

The Borough — 15:00 - 15:30

3 Dalton Square, Lancaster LA1 1PP

The impressive grade 2 listed Georgian building with Victorian frontage has ranged from the Mayor of Lancaster's house, to a working men's club. The Borough as it is today opened in 2006, by the Horner family. The front of the pub resembles a gentlemen's club whilst the large area to the rear is a restaurant. There is also a large patio area to the rear of the pub.

Eight ales are to be found with a regular from Horner Brothers Brewery.

Cash is no longer accepted, card only.

White Cross — 15:30 - 16:15

Quarry Road, Lancaster LA1 4XT

A large conversion of an old canalside warehouse, this gives it a light airy feel to it with its high ceilings and large windows. There is a large outside drinking area at the side of the pub and also plenty of seating alongside the Lancaster canal.

A long bar runs across the middle of the pub, ten handpumps regularly serve beers from hawkshead, Timothy Taylors and Allendale.

Tap House — 16:15 - 16:45

2 Gage Street, Lancaster LA1 1UH

Completely refurbished in 2012, a fairly small interior inside with a modern ambience - slate tiled floor, exposed brick and grey walls, tall furniture and some old casks incorporated into the walls.

Four ales are available with Hawkshead and York Brewery seen regularly.

Ye Olde John O'Gaunt — 16:45 - 17:15

53 Market Street, Lancaster LA1 1JG

Looks small from the stained glass windowed frontage, but pub goes back a long way giving two distinct drinking areas either side of the central bar. Outside drinking is available to the rear of the pub.

Eight rotating ales can be seen with beers Wychwood, Jennings and Theakston breweries on the bar recently.

 

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Chester

Saturday 22nd June 2019

Option 1 Manchester Piccadilly	10:53	Chester via Warrington
Arrive Chester	11:54
Option 2 Manchester Piccadilly	10:41	Chester via Northwich
Stockport train station	10:52
Arrive Chester	12:10
The Deva Tap	12:15 - 12:45
Olde Cottage	12:45 - 13:15
Pied Bull	13:15 - 14:15	Food available, booking suggested
Cavern of the Curious Gnome	14:15 - 14:45
Brewhouse and Kitchen	14:45 - 15:15
Mill Hotel	15:15 - 16:00
Cellar	16:00 - 16:30
Old Harkers Arms	16:30 - 17:15
Return via Crewe	17:35 & 17:55
Return via Warrington	17:51	To Manchester Piccadilly
Return via Northwich	18:01
Return via Warrington	18:52	To Manchester Piccadilly
Return via Crewe	18:55
Return via Northwich	19:00

The Deva Tap — 12:15 - 12:45

121 Brook Street, Chester, CH1 3DU

Popular venue close to the railway station, taken over by the team at Deva Craft Brewery in March 2017. The brewery was then sold in late 2017 and split from the pub business. The interior is fairly open plan but still has the feel of three separate rooms - a small area by the door, larger seating area in the middle and the bar at the far end. The exterior has a very unusual but stunning roof line and there is a small courtyard with picnic tables. On the bar you'll find up to five handpumps selling a range of local ales plus several keg taps and bottles. Food served daily.

Olde Cottage — 12:45 - 13:15

34 - 36 Brook Street, Chester, CH1 3DZ

Welcoming traditional community hostelry on a popular eating and drinking street close to the bus station and between the city centre and railway station. The pub benefits from a range of pub games with two dart boards, pool and bagatelle. There is a real fire in colder weather. Four hand pumps serve a rotating range of guest beers. These come from the Admiral list - one local beer per week allowed out of tie (not via SIBA). Currently offering both a CAMRA discount and a loyalty scheme. Chester & South Clwyd branch Pub of the Year 2016 CAMRA Champion Pub of Cheshire 2016 & 2018.

Pied Bull — 13:15 - 14:15

57 Northgate Street, Chester, CH1 2HQ

An oak-beamed city centre pub which is the oldest continuously licensed premises in Chester, also reputed to be haunted. Staff are knowledgeable, enthusiastic & friendly. Site of the only micro-brewery within the walls of Chester, producing a rapidly expanding range of house ales (including CAMRA award winning beer -Matador) to complement the varying guest ales. House ales also available as bottled take-outs. Regular beer festivals. Traditional, high quality pub meals containing locally sourced ingredients, available all day. New beer garden opened in July 2016 is a boon in warm weather.

Cavern of the Curious Gnome — 14:15 - 14:45

61 Bridge Street Row East, Chester, CH1 1NW

Located on one of Chester's unique shopping galleries called the Rows, this deceptively spacious venue comes in two very distinct halves. Downstairs is Paysan where the emphasis is on wine, coffee and cheese. Upstairs you'll ascend into the decidedly offbeat Cavern of the Curious Gnome. Here, a colourful large papier-mâché dwarf gazes down on a Belgium beer grotto. Red-and-white spotted toadstool seating immediately catches the eye but there's plenty more quirkiness to be found amongst the decor. On the beer front, besides the welcome four hand pumps serving changing local cask ales, Belgian beeroisseurs will be delighted by a diverse selection of lambics, gueuzes, Trappist ales and much more including, uniquely for the north-west, Duvel served on draught. (See the beer page on their website for the full run down.)

Brewhouse and Kitchen — 14:45 - 15:15

Love Street, Chester, CH1 1QY

The Forest House was built in c1759 as the town house of one Trafford Branston and is the central block of one of Chester's finest surviving Georgian buildings. Now part of the Brewhouse & Kitchen group who have a number of outlets countrywide. A brewery has been installed downstairs which will produce a range of house beers plus seasonal varieties. Many original features of the house have been retained. As well as a large bar at Mezzanine level with a cosy room off, there is a substantial long cellar with another bar splitting the two seating areas.

Mill Hotel — 15:15 - 16:00

Milton Street, Chester, CH1 3NF

This popular city centre hotel is a conversion from a corn mill originally built in 1830. A recent addition is a large conservatory on the street side of the building. 6 beers are regularly offered though there are handpumps for more at busier periods. Mill Premium, Castle Rock Harvest Pale and Weetwood Bitter are regulars. There is always 1 draught cider available. The popular Canalside restaurant is across the hotel lobby and in the bar itself meals are available whenever the bar is open. The main bar area has 3 large screen TVs showing sport at most times.

Cellar — 16:00 - 16:30

19 - 21 City Road, Chester, CH1 3AE

Welcoming and occasionally lively bar, furnished sparingly and with quirky non-matching pieces. Three TV screens show live sport at most times, though music nights are no more with this offering having transferred to their sister establishment The Cornerhouse nearby. 6 handpumps dispense cask beer from micros far and wide, with Marble Pint being the only regular. There are also 3 real ciders regularly available, plus up to 5 craft keg beers. Simple bar food is available Monday to Saturday. Below the main bar is the cellar which can be booked for private parties. Chester & South Clwyd branch Pub of the Year 2014 & 2015 (Cheshire area) Cider Pub of the Year 2017. Cask-AID every Monday sees £1 off the price of all real ales.

Old Harkers Arms — 16:30 - 17:15

1 Russel Street, Chester, CH3 5AL

Upmarket pub converted from the ground floor of former Victorian canalside warehouse. Timber flooring, traditional wooden furniture and cast iron pillars provide an insight to its former use. Blackboards list the real ales with tasting notes, usually nine are available with a selection of bitters, stouts, milds or porters. Many are from local breweries. Ciders and perrys listed separately and served from the cellar and was branch cider pub of the year 2018. Food served all day, booking advised for the busy weekend period. Outside seating with views of the canal.

Credit: Chester and South Clwyd CAMRA for the pub info.

 

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Sheffield

Saturday 20th April 2019

Depart Stockport train station	10:54
Arrive Sheffield train station	11:35
Bus / Tram to our first pub
Riverside Inn	12:00 - 13:00	Eating stop
Ship Inn	13:00 - 13:45
Wellington	13:45 - 14:15
We will then catch the tram to our next pub
Bath Hotel	14:30 - 15:15
Red Deer	15:15 - 16:00
Devonshire Cat	16:00 - 16:45
Rutland Arms	16:45 - 17:30
We will then head back to the station
Sheffield Tap (on station platform)	17:30 - 18:15
Open train details in another window for ease of reading. To full page http://ojp.nationalrail.co.uk/service/ldbboard/dep/SHF

We will try to stick to the above times but bus / tram timetables do change so please allow extra time if booking a train for the return journey.  —  Times will probably slip slightly to consume more beer!

Riverside Inn — 12:00 - 13:00

1 Mowbray Street, Kelham Island, Sheffield S3 8EN     NOTE: Food available here

Now owned by True North Brew Co., the Riverside Inn Kelham Island reopened in 2015 after a mini makeover. The interior is largely open plan with a separate room to the right of the main entrance. A mix of comfortable armchairs and sofas together with more spartan canteen style chairs populate the lounge areas. A large terrace overlooks the River Don.

Seven beers are available, True North beers are the regulars with beers from local brewers Abbeydale and Blue Bee seen as well as other local breweries.

Ship Inn — 13:00 - 13:45

312 Shalesmoor, Shalesmoor, Sheffield S3 8UL

Originally built by Tomlinsons Brewery of Sheffield, the Ship Inn opened its doors around1830. The pub still has its distinctive brown tiled exterior. A major refurbishment of the pub occurred in 2015 with many of the interior features retained and some restored after being hidden for many years. The Ship Inn is now a light, bright space crammed with the history of a traditional pub and the comforts of a modern venue.

There are four rotating real ales here and two regulars, those being Timothy Taylors Landlord and Black Sheep Bitter

Wellington — 13:45 - 14:15

1 Henry Street, Kelham Island, Sheffield S3 7EQ

Built around 1840 for A.H.Smiths Don Brewery, it eventually became part of the Whitbread stable of pubs, but was then sold free of tie in 1992. Move on over twenty years, it was refurbished and reopened late 2016, now the Neepsend Brewery Taphouse, the Wellington dispenses 3 - 4 of their beers alongside 3 - 4 guest beers from smaller breweries, a changing real cider is also available.

Voted Sheffield CAMRA pub of the month July 2018.

Bath Hotel — 14:30 - 15:15

66-68 Victoria Street, City Centre, Sheffield S3 7QL

This Grade II listed pub dates back to 1867, at one time it appears to have doubled as a grocers and a beer house. The first recorded use of the name 'Bath Hotel' was in 1908. Ind Coope bought it up around the time of the First World War and remodelled the interior in 1931, extending the pub part into what had been the grocers.

The building today has scarcely altered since 1931 apart from the loss of the off-sales (hence the disused doorway on Victoria Street). In the sharp angle of the streets there is a triangular shaped bar with seating and a hatch servery. The main counter serves a bar on the opposite side which appears to retain its original seating. The counter front is unusual in that it is faced with orangey-brown tiles.

Now owned by Thornbridge Brewery, Thornbridge Jaipur can be seen regularly alongside regularly rotating beers from the same brewery and aselection of guests.

The Bath Hotel won a conservation award and is acknowledgement by CAMRA as one of Britain's pubs with Nationally Important Historic Pub Interior.

Red Deer — 15:15 - 16:00

18 Pitt Street, City Centre, Sheffield S1 4DD

Originally dating from 1825, the pub comprised of three small rooms with a central bar. This was opened out in the 1980's and the bar repositioned to provide the present format with an L shaped lounge. There is a raised area to the rear of the pub which leads to the beer garden.

Eight real ales are usually available with beers from Blue Bee, Moorhouses and WelbeckAbbey alongside regularly changing guests. A hand pulled cider is usually available.

Devonshire Cat — 16:00 - 16:45

49 Wellington Street, City Centre, Sheffield S1 4HG

First opened in 2001, this pub was taken over by Abbeydale Brewery as their second Taphouse in 2014. A complete renovation in 2016 has seen a central horseshoe shaped bar with three distinct seating areas around it. Twelve handpumps are to be seen on the bar, half serving Abbeydales own range and half serving beer from both local and national breweries. A range of key keg beers is also available with over 100 bottled beers and cans also stocked.

Voted Sheffield CAMRA pub of the month September 2018.

Rutland Arms — 16:45 - 17:30

86 Brown Street, City Centre, Sheffield S1 2BS

A small traditional pub with a tiled exterior, it retains many of its features from the now defunct Gilmour Brewery including several etched glass windows. Internally there are two rooms with plenty of breweriana to be seen, including mirrors and advertising placards.

Following a recent upgrade, there are now seven handpumps to be seen. Blue Bee Reet Ale is a regular with six guest ales from both local and national breweries alongside the Blue Bee. There are also two real ciders available.

Voted Sheffield CAMRA pub of the month March 2018.

Sheffield Tap — 17:30 - 18:15

Platform 1b, Sheffield Midland Station, Sheaf Street, Sheffield S1 2BP

Opened in 2009 this was originally the first class refreshment room for Sheffield Midland Station, built in 1904. After years of neglect the main bar area has been subject of an award-winning restoration retaining many original features. Included on CAMRA's National Inventory of Historic Pub Interiors. Further seating has been provided in the entrance corridor and to the right of the bar.

Usually three beers are from the on-site Tapped Brewery, opened in 2013 in the impressive former dining room and which can be viewed behind the glass screen. Thornbridge Jaipur is a regular guest beer alongside four other guests. Foreign beer includes over 200 bottled beers.

Credit:     WhatPub;     Sheffield CAMRA;     Each pubs own website

 

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Newcastle-Under-Lyme
Saturday 9th February 2019

Sorry for somewhat tawdry appearance of this page but I inadvertently pressed delete then my computer crashed before I had a chance to recover (probably it was so embarrassed at my choice Anglo-Saxon phraseology!)

 

Where	Time	Comments
Depart Stockport Train Station	11:23
Arrive Stoke-On-Trent Train Station	11:48
Catch the 25 bus	11:57	From opposite the Train Station towards Keele
Arrive at Newcastle-Under-Lyme bus station	12:20
The Arnold Machin	12:25 - 13:30	Wetherspoons - food will be taken here
Freebird	13:30 - 14:00
Bridge Street Ale House	14:00 - 14:30
Thirsty Giraffe	14:30 - 15:00
Old Bulls Head Inn	15:00 - 15:30
Lymestone Vaults	15:30 - 16:00
Wellers	16:00 - 16:30
Catch the 25 bus	16:57 or 17:12	Arriving at Stoke-On-Trent railway station 17:17 or 17:32
bod	17:32 - train home	There are plenty of trains back to Stockport

The Arnold Machin ( Wetherspoons )

Overlooking Queens Gardens this Wetherspoons is located in a former post office. It bears the name of the Staffordshire born sculptor and designer Arnold Machin whose portrait of the queen has appeared on over 320 billion stamps since 1967. He also designed the image of the queens head on the first decimal coins.

Consisting of a large modern, airy interior with the usual mix of both high and low tables and seating, the bar serves six cask ales, three Wetherspoons regulars and three rotating guests.

Freebird

Named after a Lynyrd Skynrd song. Consisting of two rooms, the back room is a popular live music venue, the front room houses the bar with 8 -12 beers being served from local and national breweries.

Bridge Street Ale House

The Potteries first micro pub, converted from an old antique shop. The front room houses the bar and cellar, the back room has extra seating. Four hand pumps dispense an ever changing array of ales. Four real ciders are also stocked. Multi award winning pub, recently voted cider pub of the year 2018. GBG entry 2019.

Thirsty Giraffe

Opened on 15 December 2017, this smart, comfortable single roomed pub has the bar located on the left hand wall on entry. Plenty of varied seating is available to those wanting to try the four ever changing ales from local micro breweries little seen in the area, three key keg craft beers and two real ciders are also available. Pub of the month December 2018.

Old Bulls Head Inn

Owned by Joule's Brewery, this charming recently refurbished old fashioned pub is the oldest in Newcastle-Under-Lyme. The main bar is to the left of the entrance, to the right is a cosy snug. Four Joule's beers adorn the bar.

Lymestone Vaults

The brewery tap for Lymestone Brewery. An L shaped one room pub with a mixture of chairs and sofas. Nine ales are to be found on the bar, five from Lymestone and four rotating guests. At least eight real ciders are also available. GBG entry 2019.

Wellers

Formerly a gift shop, this single roomed pub is the first taphouse for the local Weal Ales Brewery. Smart, modern and comfortable, it is named after musician Paul Weller. Two regular ales including Weller Weal and four changing guests are to be seen on the bar. GBG entry 2019.

bod

Located in the old first class lounge at Stoke-On-Trent rail station, this is the second café bar owned and run by Titanic Brewery. Smart and comfortable this bar has two regular titanic ales and four rotating ales.

 

Open Newcastle-Under-Lyne stagger map in separate window

Wakefield Saturday 1st December 2018

It is possible to travel to Wakefield both via Sheffield and via Huddersfield. The majority of connections given on www.nationalrail.co.uk are via Sheffield, but Huddersfield may be more convenient for some. Our intended route is via Sheffield but information on the Huddersfield route is added for completeness.

Because of the potential of a Northern Rail train strike the Huddersfield route may be impractical as it relies on this service provider. The route via Sheffield is TransPennine Express and CrossCountry.

 

Via Sheffield	Time	Via Huddersfield	Time
Depart Stockport	10:28	Depart Stockport	10:27
Arrive Sheffield	11:08	Depart Manchester Piccadilly	10:47
Depart Sheffield	11:21	Depart Huddersfield	11:38
Arrive Wakefield Westgate	11:46	Arrive Wakefield Kirkgate	12:01
Fernandes Brewery Tap and Bier Keller	12:00 - 13:30	Where we present a Beer of the Festival award
Wakefield Labour Club	13:30 - 14:15	Also known as The Red Shed
Calder & Hops	14:15 - 15:00	(formerly Gate) Food available
The Black Rock	15:00 - 15:45	(formerly Redan & Malakoff, New Inn)
The Hop	15:45 - 16:30
Harry's Bar	16:30 - 17:15
Return via Sheffield	Time	Return via Huddersfield	Time
Depart Wakefield Westgate	17:27 17:35 17:48 18:23	Depart Westgate Depart Kirkgate Depart Westgate Depart Kirkgate	17:15 17:47 17:48 18:17
Sheffield Tap	Between trains	King's Head	Between trains
Arrive Stockport	19:25 19:27 19:39 19:52	Arrive Stockport	19:12 19:27 19:39 20:12

Fernandes Brewery Tap and Bier Keller — 12:00 - 13:30

5 AvisonYard, Kirkgate, Wakefield WF1 1UA

Owned by Ossett Brewery the beer range includes Fernandes (usually a choice of four brewed on-site),Ossett and Rat with three Guest Beers. The pub has eleven handpulls including two dedicated to mild/stout/porter plus a draught cider.

The Bier Keller opens Fri & Sat from six and has twelve premier foreign beers on draught plus Ossett Silver King and a cider on handpump.

The Fernandes name revives that of a 19th Century brewery on Doncaster Road which was owned by Portuguese Luis B Fernandes.

The building housing the Tap is a former maltstore for Beverley's Brewery.

Wakefield Labour Club a.k.a. The Red Shed — 14:15 - 15:00

18 Vicarage Street, Wakefield WF1 1QX

The Red Shed is an extensively refurbished old army hut that has survived the redevelopment of the area. It was officially reopened on September 24th 1966 by the local MP ( It had unofficially been open since May ).

Home to many trade union, community and charity groups, quiz night is Wednesday and live music plays many Saturdays (see club website). Left wing comedians, actors and orators are proud to appear here. Speakers at meetings here have included Ken Livingstone, John Prescott, Vanessa Redgrave, Dennis Skinner and Tony Benn.

An extensive collection of trade union plates and badges is displayed over the bar together with numerous CAMRA awards adorning the walls. Five handpumps are to be seen on the bar the bar, with Ossett, Thwaites, Moorhouses and Acorn alongside many unusual micros.

Calder & Hops — 13:30 - 14:15

60 Northgate, Wakefield WF1 3AP

Large town centre pub, good value quick food oriented in daytime, from breakfast onwards and an 18-40s venue in evenings. Has lots of booth seating, mock bookcases and dark wood decor. This gives the pub the feel of an old English living room. Variety of beers from the Marston stable and Wychwood Hobgoblin

The Black Rock — 15:00 - 15:45

19 Cross Square, Wakefield WF1 1PQ

A famous largely unspoilt old Melbourne house opened in 1842. There is a blue plaque for Archbishop John Potter who grew up here when it was a draper's shop.

An arched, tiled façade leads into this compact city centre local, where there is a warm welcome and comfy interior with many photographs of old Wakefield adding to the proper pub feel.

The Rock has been a bastion of comfort for the ale drinkers of Wakefield and now offers three guest beers alongside. Drinkers are encouraged to suggest beers they would like to try. Branch Pub of the Year 2016.

The Hop — 15:45 - 16:30

19 Bank Street, Wakefield WF1 1EH

This converted Victorian building has been transformed into a joint venture between Ossett Brewery and Mike Heaton, drummer with chart-topping band Embrace, with bars on the ground floor and music studios above - real ales plus live music, comedy and dance.

It retains the bare brick walls, fireplaces and other original features. Beers available include 5 regular beers from Ossett, Big Red Bitter, Excelsior, Silver King and Yorkshire Blond as well as Rat White Rat. There also 4 guest beers to be seen.

There is acoustic music on Mondays and a range of live music on Fridays and Saturdays. Tuesday is quiz night and the first Monday of each month features a live comedy store.

Harry's Bar — 16:30 - 17:15

107B Westgate, Wakefield WF1 1EL

This small one-roomed pub set in an alleyway just off Westgate. A real fire and a bare brick and wood interior plus vintage sporting pictures enhance this small, cosy pub. There is also a fantastic view of Wakefield's famous 99 arch viaduct, if only steam trains were a regular feature.

Up to eight beers can be seen on the bar with Five Towns, North Riding and Kelham Island beers as regulars. There is also a selection of bottled Belgian beers to add to the temptation. Hours permitted by pub's licence are greater. Wakefield CAMRA Pub of the Year 2013 and 2017.

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We will be getting the return train from the other station in Wakefield, Westgate [train times will be decided on the day.]
Those returning via Huddersfield beware - Departures alternate beween Westgate and Kirkgate.

A beer stop between trains can be incorporated into either route: at Sheffield Rail Station the Sheffield Tap is on platform 1b; via Huddersfield offers more options, Dewsbury is a possibility on some connections, Huddersfield [TWO pubs on the station] and Stalybridge are all options.

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Return via Sheffield Sheffield Tap On Platform 1b Opened in 2009 this was originally the first class refreshment room for Sheffield Midland Station, built in 1904. After years of neglect the main bar area has been subject of an award-winning restoration retaining many original features. Included on CAMRA's National Inventory of Historic Pub Interiors. Further seating has been provided in the entrance corridor and to the right of the bar. Usually three beers are from the on-site Tapped Brewery, opened in 2013 in the impressive former dining room and which can be viewed behind the glass screen. Thornbridge Jaipur is a regular guest beer alongside four other guests. Foreign beer includes over 200 bottled beers.

Return via Huddersfield King's Head On Platform 1 After a refurbishment costing £200.000, the pub has a much more open and airy feel to it after the removal of the low ceilings and carpets, recreating the decorative plaster work and fitting a new bar. Won the Huddersfield CAMRA Pub Of The Year 2014 and 2017. Ten hand pumps can be seen on the bar. The four regular beers are Bradfield Farmers Blonde, Magic Rock Ringmaster, Timothy Taylor Landlord and timothy Taylor Golden Best. Six rotating guest beers are also to be seen with at least one dark beer and a real cider on hand pull available. The current beer list is available on their Facebook page and is updated weekly. Gets very busy on Saturdays due to the rail n' ale.

 

Open Wakefield stagger map in separate window

Huddersfield Saturday 3rd November 2018

Location	Time (pub's approx)	Notes
Location	Time (pub's approx)	Notes
Train cancelled due to Northern Rail strike Depart Stockport	09:45	Parliamentary train to Stalybridge, arrive 10:06
Replacement to above Stockport at 09:40, 09:46, 09:50, 09:53, 09:55	09:53, 09:56, 09:59, 10:02, 10:04	Manchester Piccadilly
Depart Manchester Piccadilly	10:17	Same train to Huddersfield as from Stalybridge
Depart Stalybridge	10:30	Train to Huddersfield, arrive 10:52
Lord Wilson	11:05 - 12:00	Weatherspoon's for food, depart ~ 12noon
Star Inn	12:15 - 13:00
Rat & Ratchet	13:00 - 14:00	Home of Rat Brewery
Grove	14:00 - 14:45
The Corner	14:45 - 15:30	Mallinsons Brewery Tap house
Magic Rock Brewery Tap	15:45 - 16:30
The Sportsman	16:30 - 17:15
King's Head	17:15 - 18:00
Felix	18:00	Senior Pest Controller
Return trains to Stockport via Manchester Piccadilly	18:01 18:29 19:01	Times may vary due to timetabling difficulty

The Parliamentary Train — 09:45 - 10:06

Why is this service called "The Parliamentary" train? Do lots of MPs use it? Is it a secret link to Whitehall? No, it is one which is run to avoid the rigmarole of undertaking a public enquiry. Until 20 May 2018 this train travelled in one direction only, you couldn't make a return trip. Now there is a return journey, you will be using it, should you want to traverse the whole route you have to start at Stalybridge at 08:46

Lord Wilson — 11:05 - 12:00

A Wetherspoon house where we will be stopping off for food as none of the other outlets visited advertise food. Chip shops, take aways and other sourses of food will be passed, but not guarenteed, if this is too near breakfast for you.

Star Inn — 12:15 - 13:00

A multi award winning pub which is celebrating 15 years in the Good Beer Guide this year. A very traditional looking pub located just outside the centre of the town. Multi-roomed, this pub has no jukebox, pool table or games machines, just good conversation around the bar. Eleven hand pumps adorn the bar with Pictish Gold and Timothy Taylors Landlord as regulars. Nine guests can usually be seen from both local and national breweries.

Rat & Ratchet — 13:00 - 14:00

A large pub located up the road from the Star Inn and the home of the Rat Brewery. A comprehensive yet sympathetic overhaul of the pub has recently taken place which has managed to maintain its unique character. Packed full of eye catching art and imaginative decoration, the Rat & Ratchet showcases not only its own on site brewed beers but those from other Yorkshire Breweries.

Twelve beers are usually seen on the bar, with three from the onsite Rat Brewery and two from Ossett Brewery. The seven guest beers usually include a porter or a stout.

The Grove — 14:00 - 14:45

A two roomed pub located not far from the ring road, The Grove has an interesting collection of artworks in both rooms, some people would call them a little bizarre but you can make your own mind up when you get there. Huddersfield CAMRA Pub Of The Year in 2015.

There are nineteen cask ales available, four regulars Marble Pint, Oakham Citra, Saltaire Blonde and Thornbridge Jaipur. Five rotating permanent guests from Kirkstall, Hawkshead, Mallinsons, Northern Monk and Marble and ten rotating guests from both local and national breweries.

The Corner (Mallinsons Brewery Tap house) — 14:45 - 15:30

This first floor light, airy modern bar is gaining a reputation for good beers and real ciders after winning both Pub Of The Year and Cider Pub Of The Year from the Huddersfield branch of CAMRA.

Seven beers are to be found on the bar, two from Mallinsons and five rotating guests from both local and national breweries. At least five real ciders are available.

Magic Rock Tap — 15:30 - 16:15

Located in Willow Park Business Centre (Birkby in the Good Beer Guide) where they moved in 2015, the tap is housed in a 1700 sq. ft. open plan area to the far end of the brewery. The brewery is visible through windows from the bar area. There is a small area at the end of the bar selling beers to take away and brewery memorabilia.

Up to five cask ales are to be found showcasing the Magic Rock Brewery.

Food is usually available in the form of food trucks which are located in the yard on your way into the tap.

Sportsman — 16:15 - 17:00

The Sportsman takes the classic boozer and brings it bang up to date. With its beautiful Art Deco interior this 1930s pub has been restored to its former glory. The central bar has a parquet floor and an interesting wooden entrance. It won the 2010 english Heritage Pub Design Award and was also voted Huddersfield CAMRA Pub Of The Year 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2016. It was also Yorkshire Pub Of The Year runner up in 2016.

Eight beers are available, two permanent, one from Mallinsons (varies) and Timothy Taylor Boltmaker. Six regularly rotating guest beers can be seen from both local and national breweries with a porter/stout always available.

King's Head — 17:00 - 17:45

One of two pubs located at either end of the towns train station.

After a refurbishment costing £200.000, the pub has a much more open and airy feel to it after the removal of the low ceilings and carpets, recreating the decorative plaster work and fitting a new bar. Won the Huddersfield CAMRA Pub Of The Year 2014 and 2017.

Ten hand pumps can be seen on the bar. The four regular beers are Bradfield Farmers Blonde, Magic Rock Ringmaster, Timothy Taylor Landlord and timothy Taylor Golden Best. Six rotating guest beers are also to be seen with at least one dark beer and a real cider on hand pull available.

The current beer list is available on their Facebook page and is updated weekly. Gets very busy on Saturdays due to the rail n' ale.

Felix the Station cat! — 17:45 - ????

Huddersfield station is not only known for its TWO pubs actually on the station platforms, but also for its Senior Pest Controller, Felix the cat. Transpennine Express, who run the station, have officially recognised their faithful station moggie, and have even installed her own access point in the passenger barrier (better known as a cat flap to you and me). Sign up to her Facebook page, watch her stroll aloofly around the station or listen to Transpennine Express extolling the virtue of their Senior Pest Controller.

Extra at Stalybridge on return trip?

Click image right for larger image.

 

Return trains to Manchester Piccadilly are very frequent; we will decide on the day which train we will take.

If you wish to see an audio visual appraisal of the outing view this YouTube clip.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGYXySokHnw&t=83s

 

Open Huddersfield stagger map in separate window

384 Bus Stagger
Special for Stockport Beer Week

Times have been re-arranged slightly from what is on some publicity materials - now slightly later.
Stockport Bus Station for 12:30pm 384 bus
Romiley	Platform One	12:55
	Jakes Ale House (micro pub)
Marple Bridge	Northumberland Arms (community owned pub)	14:15
	Spring Gardens
	Norfolk Arms
Marple	Samuel Oldknow (micropub)	16:55
	Beer Traders (micro pub)
Offerton	Fingerpost	18:50

Platform One

Formerly part of the Robinsons estate as The Railway, the pub was fully refurbished and renamed Platform One, it reopened in 2012 as a freehouse. Mainly open plan, the bar is located along the left hand wall. The main bar area has a modern feel to it, with comfortable seating, high chairs and tables closest to the bar and a booth against the back wall. An additional smaller room is located towards the back on the way out to the beer garden. A recent refurbishment has dropped the number of handpumps to four, but a fifth is planned.

Beers noted recently include :
Storm Dexter and Bosley Cloud from Storm Brewing
Stateless from Redwillow
Rampart from Conwy Brewery.

Jakes Ale House

Based in what was once an old shoe and clothes shop, this is a new micro pub serving real ales and ciders but also craft beers, bottles, prosecco, wine and spirits. The double fronted shop gives the bar area a light and airy feel. Good use has been made of the space with the bar against part of the back wall and a useful mix of tables, chairs and fixed seating to create a homely and welcoming environment. There is additional seating available in the back room (Jake's Snug) which opened in June 2017. The bar provides 5 hand pumped cask ales, with 20p off a pint for CAMRA Members. 8 - 12 "bag in a box" ciders available behind the bar.

Beers noted recently include :
Aussie Blonde from Elephant School Brewing Co.
Gunner Blonde Ale from Campbells Brewery
Hop Kitty from Animal XT Brewing Co.
Ian & Pauls Ale (IPA) from Nethergate Brewery
Cherry Raven from Magpie Brewery

Nothumberland Arms

Another former Robinsons pub which closed its doors in January 2017. Affectionately known as 'The Thumb' by its regulars, a group of whom got together to raise the funds to buy the building, it reopened eleven months later in December 2017 after essential refurbishments as a community owned and run pub. A multi room pub which has six handpumps located on the bar towards the back of the pub.

A beer garden is located to the side. The pub also hosts 'Thumb Food Fridays' once a month

Beers noted recently include:
Sonoma from Track
Hoppy Daze from Poynton
Unicorn from Robinsons
Pedigree from Marstons

Spring Gardens

Following a period of closure the pub reopened on 16th March 2016 following its acquisition by the owners of The Hope in Stockport (the site of the Fool Hardy Ales microbrewery). Smart, light and airy, this is a large pub with interconnected, but defined, spaces running off a large bar area. Wooden flooring throughout. A room towards the rear has table football and a pinball machine. The bar counter features what may be called "industrial chic" fittings dispensing a wide range of keg and craft keg beers in addition to the eight handpulls.

Food is available here. There is a large decking area to the back of the pub.

Beers noted recently include :
Risky Blond, Rankenstein, Ryux and Rash from Foolhardy Ales
Fat Cat from Salopian Brewery
3.9 from Outstanding
IPA from Outstanding
Peeky Pint from Hereford Brewery

Norfolk Arms

This recently refurbished stone built pub sits in an attractive urban setting. The atmosphere is warm and friendly with good value food available. Comfortably furnished with a real fire it draws its custom from a wide range by catering to all tastes. The beer range is a good addition to the choice in the area. Five handpumps are located on the bar.

A large beer garden is located to the side.

Beers noted recently include :
Goalski and Hop Gun from 3DBeer
Pollards and Strawberry Lucaria from Thornbridge
Session from Seven Brothers

Happy hour is 4 - 7pm with a selected beer at £2.50

Samuel Oldknow

Named after the local businessman and mill owner who was responsible for much of the development of Marple and Mellor some 200 years ago. Opened in time for Easter 2016, this is a somewhat quirky two level bar in a converted shop. Six vintage style handpulls dispense regularly changing real ales. The pub also serves a large range of real ciders and perries in addition to several beers served through fonts. A range of bottled beers are available to take away or to drink on the premises. Nuts and crisps keep the hunger pangs at bay but pies may feature later.

Beers noted recently include :
Pembroke Rye from Poynton
Tropical Fruit Blast Gold from Wildside Beers
Elsyium from Mobberley Brewhouse
Best Bitter from Pennine Brewing Co.
Oldknow Cotton Spinner Ale from Rock Mill Brewery
1924 from Mobberley Brewhouse

Beer Traders

An interesting innovation for the area in that the premises combines a bottle shop with a micropub in a converted shop premises. Three handpulls serve changing beers normally from local micros. Aim is to have one traditional bitter, one darker beer and something hoppy. Two "bag in a box" ciders are also available. There is a range of over 100 of the best bottled and canned craft beers from around the UK and beyond. On the shelves you'll also find at least two traditional still ciders.

Beers noted recently :
Thornbridge Brother Rabbit
Pomona Island Session IPA

Fingerpost

Large corner Robinsons pub located at a prominent crossroads. Built prior to the Great War it has unusually retained six separate drinking areas, three of which have real fires. On entering, the bar is to the left. The body of it runs into a large vault which features photographs of old-time Stockport, and brewing methods throughout. The Robinsons regular beer range is always available, complemented by a Robinsons seasonal offering. A good range of quality pub food is available, as well as sandwiches, baked potatoes, and other snacks. Darts and pool are played. Live music events twice a month. Two function rooms are available: one upstairs (80 people), and one downstairs (100 people). Dogs welcome when food not being served.

Beers noted recently :
Trooper, Unicorn and Wizard from Robinsons
A beer from the Robinson seasonal range is usually available.

 

Open 384 bus stroll map in separate window

Leeds 4th August 2018

Location	Time (pub's approx)	Notes
Depart Stockport	10:40	Train to Manchester Piccadilly
Arrive Piccadilly	10:52
Depart Piccadilly	11:05	Train to Middlesbrough Timetable
Depart Oxford Road	11:08	Same train to Middlesbrough
Depart Victoria	11:17	Same train to Middlesbrough
Arrive Leeds	12:08
Victoria Family & Commercial	12:30 - 13:30	Food available
Foleys Tap House	13:30 - 14:00
Ship Hotel	14:00 - 14:30
Whitelocks Ale House	14:30 - 15:15
Duck & Drake	15:15 - 16:00
Tapped	16:00 - 16:30
Scarbrough Hotel	16:30 - 17:00
Hop	17:00 - 17:30
Return trains to Stockport via Manchester Piccadilly	17:49, 17:52, 18:06, 18:18, 18:50 Times may vary due to timetabling difficulty

The Victoria Family & Commercial Hotel — 12:30 - 13:30

Built by the Victoria Hotel Company in 1865 as a twenty eight room hotel to accommodate visitors to the Assizes Court in Leeds Town Hall, the grade ll listed building has an impressive Victorian exterior and ornate interior with high ceilings. There is a long main bar area and two separate rooms all of which feature an array of polished wood and shiny brass. The guest beers are selection of local ales and quality beers from around the country.

Foleys Tap House — 13:30 - 14:00

The building is an impressive edifice built of Portland stone and previously owned by the Pearl Assurance Company. The company was founded by Patrick James Foley hence the name of the pub and his statue is at the top of the building. The interior is on several levels with a variety of seating. This busy city centre pub is now owned by the York Brewery and showcases four of their own beers along with up to eight guest beers. Also sells real ciders and perries.
Leeds CAMRA Pub of the year 2017.

Ship Hotel — 14:00 - 14:30

Long narrow pub with a single room on two levels with the bar next to the main door. Decorated with nautical memorabilia in keeping with its name and has brass fittings, period lighting and an impressive wall clock. Expect to see up to six beers on the bar.

Whitelock's Ale House — 14:30 - 15:15

Whitelock's dates from 1715 and occupies a long narrow yard. The interior is unchanged from 1895 and has been identified by CAMRA as having a nationally important historic pub interior. The pub is a feast of mirrors, woodwork, stained glass and a fine faience bar. A varied beer selection is offered from local and national breweries. Beers noted recently from Roosters, Brass Castle, Acorn, Ilkley and Thornbridge.

Duck & Drake — 15:15 - 16:00

A fine example of a two-roomed Victorian corner pub retaining some original features. Wood-floored throughout and some of the floorboards have survived two hundred years of trade. The central bar with fifteen handpumps sits in between and serves both rooms. A mural can be found behind a small stage depicting many blues and rock legends and is decorated with various music memorabilia.

Tapped — 16:00 - 16:30

This modern bar consists of one room with the long bar to right of entrance and brewing equipment along the left hand wall. Tapped Brewing Company real ales are usually brewed at Tapped's sister pub on Sheffield station. Signs above the bar give details of the beers available. There are no handpumps but the lower set of thirteen taps on the back wall dispense the cask ales. Above these are fourteen keg taps. A wide range of bottled and canned beers are also available.

Scarbrough Hotel — 16:30 - 17:00

The pub stands on the site of a Medieval manor house that was lavishly built in 1768 as a most desirable residence. It became a pub in 1826 when Harry Scarbrough took the property renaming it The Kings Arms. It has been known as the Scarbrough Hotel since the late 1890s. This pub serves two regular beers, Nicholsons Pale and Tetleys. Up to seven guest beers are dispensed from both local and national breweries.

Hop — 17:00 - 17:30

Opened in 2010, this pub which lies beneath the arches of Leeds Station's platform 17, the Hop serves ten real ales from the Ossett family of brewers together with several guests and real cider. The bar is surrounded by comfortable seating with bare brick walls decorated with murals and pictures depicting rock bands. The stairs on either side of the bar lead to another seating area which hosts live music on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Additional pubs from the same are located in Wakefield, York and Saltaire.

 

Altrincham — Saturday 7th July 2018

Location	Time (approx)	Notes
Depart Stockport	11:52	Northern train to Chester
Arrive Altrincham	12:09
Old Market Tavern	12:15 - 13:15	Food available
Pi	13:15 - 13:45
Jack in a Box	13:45 - 14:15	Blackjack Tap in Food Hall/Market
Con Club	14:15 - 14:45
Cheshire Tap	14:45 - 15:15
Costello's Bar	15:15 - 15:45	Dunham Massey Tap
Rustic	15:45 - 16:15
Return train to Stockport	17:00
Next train to Stockport	18:00

The Route

Exit the train station, use the pedestrian crossing and carry on into the shopping centre, bear right through a passageway then left and up the hill. Our first pub is across the road on your right :-

Old Market Tavern — 12:15 - 13:15

Black and white former coaching inn. Formerly a bank, temporary town hall and coaching inn, this pub has been opened out into four distinct areas together with a beer garden and meeting room.

A plaque on the outside wall describes how George Massey manufactured gas for the first time in Altrincham in 1844 to illuminate the pub.

Eleven hand pumps are almost always in use. A white board opposite the bar lists what is available, with ABV & price. Locally produced beers from sourced from Stubborn Mule, Dunham Massey, Lymn and Mobberley have been noted recently alongside beers from Lancashire and Yorkshire.

We will have an hour here for food which is served 12:00 - 16:00 on a Saturday.

Passing the Orange Tree, cross the road and head down Market Street, take the left turn into Shaws Road before the Market Hall, on the left is :-

Pi — 13:15 - 13:45

This small pub is set over two floors, it has a 'secret garden' to the back and additional seating to the front as required. Beer is served in 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 and pints.

Tatton Blonde is the regular here with Salopian Symphony and Pomona Island Lemondrop El Dorado noted on a recent visit.

Across from Pi is the Market Hall, located inside is: :-

Jack in the Box — 13:45 - 14:15

The first brewery tap from Blackjack brewery, opened in 2014 it shares the hall with various food outlets. The seating area within the hall is shared amongst all the outlets.

Four beers are served with Jack in the Box pale being the regular. Beers from Bad Seed, Intrepid and Bristol beer factory have been seen recently. Broadoak Perry was seen.

Exit the Market Hall and opposite is :-

Con Club — 14:15 - 14:45

The former Conservative Club has been converted into a light and spacious contemporary bar and restaurant. The restaurant section is on the left as you enter, with the bar straight ahead.

A microbrewery operating under the name of Federation started brewing in Spring 2017 and can be seen through a glass window to the right of the bar. Beers from Electric Bear, Wiper and True, Tiny Rebel and Turning Point were noted along with the house brewery Federation - A Wing and a prayer light pale ale.

Turning left out of the Con Club along Greenwood Street, turn Left onto Regent Road and right at the traffic lights. Located on the right approx. 50 yards is the :-

Cheshire Tap — 14:45 - 15:15

Formerly known as the Classroom, this pub was completely refurbished in December 2015, soft lighting, a bare brick feature wall, a stainless steel bar top and bare squirrel cage filament lamps above the bar creates a stylish laid back feel. Music is there, but not too loud.

Beers from Robinsons, Cross Bay, Weird Beard and Salopian have been seen recently.

Left out of the pub to the traffic lights, cross over the road and turn right before Toast, down the passageway and facing you is :-

Costello's Bar — 15:15 - 15:45

A modern bar in the "Goose Green" area which has now become a center for small bars and restaurants. It is the brewery tap for Dunham Massey brewery.

Situated in a modern retail unit it has smart clean décor with a mixture of low & high level free standing tables & chairs. There are sheltered outside tables for smokers.

Winner of Trafford & Hulme CAMRA Pub of The Year for 2012 & 2013 and runner up in Greater Manchester Pub Of The Year 2013. Seven beers from Dunham Massey Brewing Co. are on the bar.

Re-tracing our steps back to the main road, turn right onto Stamford New Road, a few hundred yards down on the right is :-

Rustic — 15:45 - 16:15

Opened in Dec 2015 as the Craftsman. Refitted and reopened as Rustic May 2017. The focus is on being a laidback, chilled out kind of place.

The ground floor area is long and thin with bench seating near the entrance and bar and tables further back. Upstairs there is extra space for 60 seated or it can be used as a meeting/event room.

Six handpumps are located on the bar with beers listed a blackboard on the wall behind the bar. Four of the beers are from local breweries and two from national micro breweries.

Turn right out of the bar, this takes us back to the train station