Stockport pubs among Telegraph's top 20 in area

TWENTY pubs in Greater Manchester have been named among the 500 best in the country.

- BY RAMAZANI MWAMBA

And two of those are in Stockport.

The Telegraph newspaper has launched its inaugural guide to the 500 Best Pubs in England. Chosen by ale expert journalist Will Hawkes, establishments have made the list for their charming character, welcoming staff, rich history and, most importantly, award-winning beer.

From historic inns brimming with character to modern gems with innovative menus, every selection offers something unique. Local reputation, customer reviews, and personal visits all played a role in curating the list, the publication said.

The guide will be refreshed yearly to make sure that those who should remain do so, while others who deserve to break into the list are added.

Mr Hawkes said: “I’ve developed strong opinions about what makes a great pub, atmosphere, of course, fixtures and fittings that engender what Germans call gemutlichkeit, warmth, happiness and cosiness, good beer, particularly cask ale, and a sense of place.”

Ash Corbett-Collins, chairman of CAMRA, said: “Our pubs are the beating heart of communities in every corner of the country, from rural villages to city centres and everywhere in between.

“They bring people from all walks of life together and are a vital part of our social fabric. In good times and in bad, the pub is the go-to place for family and community events.

“They deserve to be supported, protected and promoted so they can thrive as community hubs for centuries to come.”

The 20 pubs from Greater Manchester included in the guide, with comments on each, are:

The Northumberland Arms, Marple Bridge, Stockport