English Lounge, Manchester

A large high-ceilinged establishment with wooden floors and a reasonably traditional feel. It is divided into several distinct areas, with a mixture of seating and several TV screens. There appears to be another room upstairs and a roof terrace (not visited). Draught ales on at time of visit included Theakston's BB, Trooper and Cameron's Phenology.

A larger pub than it first appears, as the main bar has been extended through to the adjacent building (which explains the very substantial wall as seen beside the openings between the two main seating areas). There is apparently also a 'Library' room upstairs. Mid-market decor, with a fair range of old-style and newer furniture. Five of the six handpumps were on, offering Cumberland, Pride, Landlord, Pedigree and Moorhouse's Premium Bitter (£3.00). Overall, it's website's own description of " a traditional country pub in the heart of Manchester" isn't that wide of the mark, spoilt mainly by its location opposite the charmless monstrosity that is the Arndale Centre.