Bridgewater Hotel, BOLTON, Greater Manchester

Beautifully refurbished in 2015, this pub is owned by fiercely independent Yorkshire brewers Samuel Smith's. It is a traditional community local where you find a great session ale, a relaxing atmosphere and stimulating chat. Much of the original layout has been retained. An entrance hallway leads to the pool room on the left and the bar to the right. Just off the bar is a wonderful snug. Beyond are two comfortable lounge areas. Uniquely all three of these rooms have real coal fires making it warm and cosy in the winter months. At the back is a secluded beer garden. There are no TVs or music and it is a pub where everyone is welcome and people meet to chat about the issues of the day. The bar has two handpumps both dispensing Samuel Smith's Old Brewery Bitter. This is well kept and always at a bargain price. In the fridge you can find some of the brewery's much acclaimed bottled beers (though these are not bottled conditioned).