The Angel, Manchester

This is a stand alone pub clearly visible as a beacon of hope as one looks up Rochdale Road. And you will not be disappointed as it is another classic Manchester drinkers’ pub. There were ten handpumps in use during my visit on Wednesday afternoon, all featuring ales not generally seen in London. I went for the Kelham Island Riders on the Storm which was an excellent pint, as you would expect from this fine brewery. The front area of the room is dominated by a grand piano, a feature not generally seen in pubs, which I was advised is used on occasion. There’s also a dartboard in this area, as well as some attractive looking wood panelling on the ceiling. Normal tables and chairs and upholstered bench seating round the side are the order of the day in here. This pub is a must for any real ale fan visiting Manchester.

On entering my first thoughts were that the pub could possibly do with a revamp,but this fell into insignificance when I saw the fine range of cask beers on offer,of which there was ten.The friendly barman served me up a pint of Lytham Stout (4.6abv)from the Lytham Brewery which was spot on.Definitely worth a visit.

I was a little put off by the “Gastro Pub” description in the 2010 GBG but I needn't of worried, the outside door and steping into the bar from the urban wastes outside proved ROBCamra's description the more accurate. The bar is L Shaped with the counter in the angle and one side, apart from a piano near the door the rest is publike, with bareboards and a red/cream paint job. The carpeted back area has a series of tables at bench seats with chairs on the outer side, all looking a wee bit scruffy. Now reached 10 handpumps on the counter, two with ciders and the others with a selection of well kept, but chilly, beers from micros, the servery top sports a good collection of pump clips. There is also Erdinger and a T-bar with UK kegs and Magners for those who prefer. Good mix of customers when I came in although they'd just finished lunching so it got a little quieter.

This pub has a lot more ales on than when I visited last year, and is on the way to the Marble Arch, so look in as you don't know what you might find here now. Called in on Saturday and chose Harviestoun Ola Dubh, a lovely 10.5% but very drinkable amazing enough, and at the other end of the scale Brown Cow Sessions at 3.6%. Wanted new brewery Redemption, but it had just finished. However, heard in the Smithfield another cask was on, and along with a lot of others went back for it. Good real ale house again.