June - Ye Olde Vic
Ye Olde Vic
1 Chatham Street, Edgeley Stockport SK3 9ED
The Stockport & South Manchester CAMRA Pub of the Month for June is Ye Olde Vic on the corner of King Street West and Chatham Street in Edgeley. Graham Privett went along.
A pub of genuine character, managed by a genuine character of a landlord (Steve Brannan), ably supported and complemented by his long-term partner Jo together with a fiercely loyal band of regulars, many of whom help run the pub and are very knowledgeable regarding the ales on offer.
Six hand-pulls offer an ever-changing selection of ales from brewers both near and far, plus real cider. Whilst the emphasis tends to be on lighter hoppy beers, darker ales have recently become more evident, including the very popular Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby Mild. The ale quality is right up there with the very best in our region. No wonder Steve is celebrating 16 consecutive years in the national Good Beer Guide.
The Olde Vic is a genuine hidden gem of Stockport. Unique. The sort of place I love to stumble upon when I'm following Stockport County across the UK. I typically drop in about a quarter to Thursday - yes, time really does seem to go slower once you're inside (I mean 6pm Wednesday, by the way). It's a veritable Aladdin's cave, with a vast array of hats, bizarre equipment from days gone by, games, musical instruments, scientific apparatus, books and baffling puzzles, which Steve is more than happy to demonstrate, particularly to newcomers.
The emphasis is very much on good conversation and witty banter sometimes veering off at random tangents for no logical reason. However, if this isn't your thing, then simply immerse yourself in the quiet sanctuary that Vic can offer - let time slow down (or even stop) in front of the open fire, or whilst taking in the pump-clip covered ceiling.
You're all welcome to attend the presentation night Thursday 25th June (from 8pm) to check out what you've been missing. Steve and Jo are kindly providing some gruel and fusty bread to mark the occasion, so gird yourselves!