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The Crown & Kettle

Grade II-listed Ancoats gem with a world-class tin ceiling, craft beer mastery, and cozy Victorian vibes—Manchester's perfect pub hybrid.

4.5

Tucked into Ancoats' industrial streets, The Crown & Kettle is a Grade II-listed Victorian pub blending historic grandeur with a vibrant craft beer scene. Its ornate pressed-tin ceiling captivates, while rooms flow from a lively main bar to cozy snugs. Expect local brews from Privateer and Blackjack alongside simple pub grub like pies and chips. Friendly staff guide tastings from an extensive tap list. Open daily with extended weekend hours, it's a welcoming spot for locals and visitors alike, dog-friendly and unpretentious.

A brief summary to The Crown & Kettle

  • 2 Oldham Rd, Manchester, Ancoats, M4 5FE, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Friday 11 am-12 am
  • Saturday 11 am-12 am
  • Sunday 11 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Ask the bar staff for a beer tasting; they'll guide you through the extensive craft list based on your tastes.
  • Head to the back snug for a quieter spot or the smaller room for sports on TV.
  • Pair a local ale with a classic pie for the full pub experience.
  • Visit on weekends for extended hours until midnight, ideal for lingering.
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The Crown & Kettle location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Victorian Splendor in Ancoats

The Crown & Kettle stands as a testament to Manchester's industrial past, a Grade II-listed building from the early 19th century perched on the corner of Oldham Road in Ancoats. This neighborhood, once buzzing with mills and warehouses, now pulses with urban revival, and the pub fits seamlessly into its gritty yet gentrifying backdrop. Its red-brick facade blends with the surrounding heritage architecture, inviting passersby through heavy wooden doors into a world preserved in time. Inside, the space unfolds across multiple rooms: a main bar area gives way to a snug and a smaller back room equipped for sports viewing. The warm color scheme and soft lighting temper the high ceilings, creating an intimate feel despite the grandeur. Original features whisper stories of working-class gatherings from eras past, where laborers quenched their thirst after long shifts.

Ceiling Masterpiece Above All

Dominating the interior is the pub's crowning glory: an extraordinary pressed-tin ceiling, intricate and unparalleled. Adorned with elaborate patterns of florals, geometrics, and motifs, it gleams under the lights, drawing eyes upward in awe. This architectural gem, rare even among Manchester's historic pubs, was crafted during the Victorian era when such opulent details graced public houses to impress patrons. The ceiling isn't mere decoration; it anchors the pub's identity, a focal point that sparks conversation among drinkers. Paired with dark wood paneling and vintage fixtures, it evokes a sense of stepping back into 1817, the year the building first opened. Preservation efforts have kept it pristine, ensuring this highlight endures for future generations.

Craft Beer Haven with Local Flavor

What sets The Crown & Kettle apart in Manchester's pub landscape is its dedication to craft beer. The bar boasts an impressive lineup of cask ales from regional brewers like Privateer, First Chop, Blackjack, and Shindiggers, alongside guest lagers from Camden Town and Runaway. Over 20 options rotate seasonally, emphasizing quality and variety. Staff expertise shines here, offering tastings to match preferences—bitter, IPA, or something novel. This approach demystifies the menu, turning selection into an engaging ritual. Beyond beer, ciders and ales round out a selection that honors Northern brewing traditions while embracing modern innovation.

Comforting Pub Staples

Food plays a supporting role, focusing on honest, satisfying dishes that pair perfectly with pints. Menus feature classics like pies, chips, and simple platters—nothing fussy, everything flavorful. The kitchen delivers comforting fare that encourages lingering, transforming a quick drink into a full evening out. Portions are generous, prices keep it accessible, and the simplicity lets the pub's atmosphere take center stage. Outdoor seating expands options on warmer days, blending indoor heritage with al fresco ease in Ancoats' vibrant street life.

Community Heartbeat

More than a venue, The Crown & Kettle pulses as Ancoats' pride, bridging hipster craft enthusiasts and traditional locals. Its hybrid vibe—heritage showpiece meets everyday local—fosters inclusivity. Dog-friendly policies welcome four-legged companions, while the layout suits solo sippers, groups, or sports fans alike. This enduring appeal stems from its unpretentious warmth, where history meets hospitality in Manchester's evolving urban tapestry.

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