August - Grove Alehouse
Grove Alehouse
145 London Road, Hazel Grove, Stockport SK7 4HH
The Pub of the Month for August is the Grove Alehouse at 145 London Road in Hazel Grove. John Clarke has been to visit.
Hazel Grove's first, and so far only, micropub opened its doors in December 2015 since when it has made steady progress in bringing additional variety to the local beer range. This has been a project by Kevin and Tina Clarke (no relation!) who had previously run the nearby Bird in Hand. Together with their son they carried out the work themselves using a good deal of recycled timber for many of the fittings (although the quality of the finish is such that you'd never know).
For many years the premises were well known as an outlet for Tittertons butchers although it was latterly a computer shop. Being a former shop, the size of the place is as modest as a good-sized living room. The layout is L-shaped with a bar in the right-hand quarter. A fixed-bench seat is along one side of the pub, while six tables and accompanying chairs make up the total furniture in there (albeit there are some barstools too). Beyond the bar, a corridor gives access to the toilet, and also a door to the smoking area out at the rear.
Five handpumps adorn the front of the bar, and boldly face the window enabling the customer to see the cask offering before anything else. They try and have a stout, a hoppy beer, and something less hoppy from a single brewer as much as choice will allow. As with many places these days, flights of third measures of three different ales can be bought. Three real ciders are also available.
During its relatively short life the Grove Alehouse has built up a loyal following of regulars and established its place in the local community. Join us on Thursday 24 August when we present this well-deserved award to Kevin and Tina. The pub is on the main road and is well-served by the 192 bus.