The Moon Under Water (JD Wetherspoon), Wigan

Called in one Saturday lunchtime on the way to Haydock races,the barstaff were few and far between

Commanding a prime position on the Market Place, this spacious Wetherspoons is spread across two separate buildings, one of which appears to have been a Bank or Building Society before being put to better use and the other a quite drab modern and faceless block of concrete. The divide is quite evident internally and externally with part of the old wall remnants splitting the pub into 2 halves. Overall it does have quite an elegant and spacious feel although the ornamental moons and stars look a bit tacky. Old town photos and displays of local characters can be found dotted about the interior although the younger generation will be disappointed to find the likes George Formby favoured over the Verve. All the usual ‘Spoons food and drink suspects are evident and on the ale front there were 6 guests across the 10 hand pumps with Moorhouse and George Wright ales being showcased on my visit. The connection between Wetherspoons and former Wigan resident George Orwell might not seem immediately apparent but ‘Spoons boss Tim Martin and Orwell seem to share a united vision of their ideal pub and Orwell’s Moon Under Water, a fictional Victorian pub referred to in a 1946 essay, was the template for Wetherspoons when the business was founded. What Orwell would make of this incarnation of his thoughts is anyone’s guess but he would certainly be able to tick many of his boxes although he wouldn’t have been able to forsee the delights of plasma screens and alcopops. I found this to be one of the better Wetherspoons and whilst it may not fully match Orwell’s vision, I’m sure he would be relatively pleased with the resulting efforts.

A brilliant pub an Allgates outlet with guest ales and foreign beers stocked,and convenient for the bus station.An award winning pub

Another popular town centre pub.

Town centre Wetherspoons. Very busy place especially at weekends.