May - Red Lion
Red Lion, Cheadle
83 Stockport Road, Cheadle, Stockport SK8 2AJ
The Stockport & South Manchester Pub of the Month for May is the Red Lion on Stockport Road in Cheadle. Darren Berry is a fan and explains why it won.
Originally a Bell & Co pub, the Red Lion was acquired by Robinsons in 1949. For some years Robinsons leased the pub and during this time it was extended and refurbished, both internally and externally. While it's now essentially open-plan the rambling interior still has plenty of cosy corners and separate areas and as such it is a popular community local.
Now run by Chris Reding and his hardworking team, the Red Lion is traditional in style with dark wooden panelling throughout. Toby jugs, old bottles and photos and the traditional fittings all add character. There are a few cosy little seating areas off the main room with welcoming open fires enjoyed by all in the winter months. A large patio area is located alongside the pub with additional heating for those cooler nights.
The beer range consists of three regulars, Dizzy Blonde, Unicorn and Wizard plus the Robinsons seasonal - all are well kept and very popular. Food is served seven days a week, with a carvery available on Sundays. The Red Lion hosts a weekly quiz there's live music three or four times a year. It's one of those pubs that seems to do everything well.
So why not join the local CAMRA branch, along with Chris and the team, to celebrate the award on Thursday 24 May and see for yourself why the Red Lion has been voted Pub of the Month?
Buses 11, 11A, 309, 310 and 312 currently will drop you off close to the pub.