December - Red Bull
14 Middle Hillgate, Stockport, SK1 3AY
The Stockport & South Manchester CAMRA Pub of the Month award for December 2013 has been won by the Red Bull on Hillgate, Stockport, writes Dave Platt.
Long a local favourite, the Red Bull was given a new lease of life in 2008 when it was given a massive investment by Robinsons, whose brewery is just down the road and who regard this as something of a flagship.
It took a while before the pub was let but it's now in the hands of Karen and Aimie who have really put it on the map. The investment saw the pub extended into a neighbouring building and the cramped internal layout revised. It is to Robinsons' credit that despite theses major changes the pub's character was maintained, and arguably enhanced.
There is a major food offering now and this includes everything from a light lunch or a bowl of chips through to a full on three course meal. The Sunday carvery is also very well regarded. The pub also offers accommodation with four individually designed rooms which have garnered rave reviews online. There are quiz nights and live entertainment features regularly.
But what about the beer? As you may imagine, there a full range of Robinsons beers available and quality is top notch (the pub is sufficiently busy to maintain turnover). Plenty will be enjoyed on the presentation night on Friday 27 December. The pub is easy to get to, being just a short walk from the A6 which is well served by buses.