The Royal Oak, Manchester

The Royal Oak is a Hydes pub with a thin front bar area with a serving counter on the rear wall. Seating is found either side of the counter, each with a television for airing live football. These were both muted as the football hadn’t yet started, but the jukebox was playing some background music. At the rear of the pub is a large games room with separate entrance. Pool and darts can be found in here. To the right of the pub is a paved beer garden with a covered seating area. The bar supports three hand pumps that were drawing Hydes Original and Lowry alongside Hemp Heckler from the local microbrewery, Ralf + Alf. There are also six keg options, including Amstel and Hydes Dock 4 Lager. I’d use this pub if I lived locally, but I don’t so doubt I’ll ever return.