August - Head of Steam
Head of Steam
653 Wilmslow Road, Didsbury M20 6QZ
The August Pub of the Month winner is the Head of Steam on Wilmslow Road in Didsbury. Sue Lightfoot has been along.
That the Head of Steam has won Pub 
of the Month is testament to the energy, enthusiasm and vision of the new manager Eyo Essien, who has been in post since October last year.
Since taking over, he and his team have worked hard to make the pub, one of a group now owned by Camerons Brewery, a destination venue for Didsbury.
Situated by the clock tower in Didsbury village, where the Sanctuary used to be, and the Varsity before that, the pub has something of an urban vibe. The filament lighting, and the wood furniture and flooring provide a calming atmosphere. There are booths along one wall, and a sofa and easy chairs to relax in. The long bar affords plenty of space for perpendicular drinking. There are also tables outside - a real boon on sunny days.
The keg lines provide a variety of rotating craft beers, and there is a large selection of wines, spirits and cocktails. Cask beer availability now extends to six handpulls, the aim being to offer a variety of styles, including mild, a stout/porter - and something unusual - from around the region and beyond. Beer quality has steadily improved. Cider is also available. Tasters are offered. There is an extensive range of bottled beers to try, and these can also be bought at a reduced price to take away.
The pool table has been reinstated and has proved popular. There are board games - and indeed, a games night - as well as a weekly quiz night, and live jazz on a Thursday. There are deals for after-work socials and cocktail hour. Graffiti Small Plates supply some very tempting meals.
A regular clientele has been built up; all ages enjoy the social centre the Head of Steam has become - and dogs are welcome too. An area has been set aside for people to leave information (and Opening Times), and the pub is happy to support local branch events such as the Mild Magic challenge. Camerons was one of the sponsors for the recent Stockport Beer and Cider festival.
This is a pub which listens to its customers and provides service with enthusiasm. There are regular updates on Facebook and Twitter about deals and events. Please come and join us for the presentation on 25 August, from 8pm, to celebrate this richly deserved award and enjoy a few beers!
Bus routes: 142, 42, 42a, 23. Tram stop: Didsbury Village.