The Crown, Oldham

Situated to the west of Oldham town centre, this pub stands alone on the road, with a small trading estate behind it. It didn't look too enticing from outside and I wasn't sure whether or not it was open until I managed to walk in. Indeed, I was seemingly the first customer of the day. The landlord, who had been sat in one far corner of the large single room, came over to serve me and turned out to be really chatty, sitting next to me discussing the local pub scene and offering recommendations. Later, another customer (a regular) walked in, but the landlord was bemoaning the fact that many of the workers from the nearby trading estate had lost their jobs during the various lockdowns, which had significantly reduced footfall in the pub. The two changing real ales often include something from Leatherbritches. On my visit, this was their Lemongrass & Ginger. The other ale was Brentwood Gold. I'm fairly sure the landlord said that he adds a third ale for weekends. He even offered to let me see his cellar. A friendly local pub that makes a good change from all of the local JW Lee's establishments.

A good looking brick built pub and well kept on the inside as well. There's a horseshoe shaped bar with dartboard and a lounge area. 3 handpumps on the bar with Lees Bitter being a permanent beer and another being used for a changing guest usually from Greenfield, Wilson Potter or Millstone, the third is currently unused. On my visit the guest was Greenfield Copper Cascade which was a good pint and well priced at £2.50. Friendly landlady and locals add to the pubs attractions as did the free hot sausages which appeared on the bar at 6 p.m. which apparently is regular occurence on a Friday. After a long afternoon on the beer they were very welcome as well. A very good locals pub and one that I'll happily return to.