Manchester brewer, Joseph Holt spent a considerable sum in 2014 turning what had been a rather humdrum building a decade before into a gleaming, airy, well-lit local, successfully marrying the needs of the drinker with those of the diner. The former vault and lounge were combined, plus a conservatory constructed to one side. The dining area is at the back of the semi-open plan lounge where light oak wainscoting gives a manorial atmosphere. There’s also a pizza/deli/ice cream counter as you enter. Built into the front of the building is a covered veranda which pioneered the provision of external smoking areas even before the legislation was introduced. On the Finney Lane side there is still part of the pub that might be described as a vault area, so drinkers are very much welcome. There is an extensive range of Holt’s bottled beers available.