Sutton Hall, Macclesfield

Converted manor house and additions of various ages, leaving all kinds of characterful seating / dining areas serving the well-healed of this part of Cheshire. However, the Macclesfield Canal is nearby, and I noted that the plainer back room was labelled the Locals Bar so it probably gets a good mix of customers. Apart from that, I was pleasantly surprised by the real ale selection, which included Bosley Cloud from Storm Brewing, Beartown Best Bitter, Mobberley Brewhouse's Buntingford and Lord Lucan 'disappears before you know it' from Wincle Brewery (£4.00). No usual suspects there, so good effort by Brunning & Price.

A very imposing Brunning and Price chain pub,close to the Macclesfield canal,but approached along a long drive way.The buildings are impressive,timber framed,with exposed stone work,while the winding interior feels baronial with many beams,an impressive staircase,and a lovely formal dining room with ceiling to floor casement windows.Walk around and discover a small snug mid building.There is a double sided bar,on one side the Chapel room and there is a selection of 6 ales,which on my trip was Wincle Lord Lucan,Bass,Howard Town Longdendale Lights,Rudgate Jorvic,BP Original and a decent Weetwood Cheshire Cat. Dining will dominate ,book at busy times but you can find nooks and crannies to drink in.A grand building,worth a visit.

Expensive-looking conversion of an old manor house into a large food-based establishment, but retaining appeal for drinkers. Several large rooms with lots of beams, paintings and general country house-style ephemera, with good bar area (if locals not crowding in the way). Good range of beers and food looked deservedly popular. The whole thing is set in landscaped grounds with some substantial outdoor furniture. Far from a traditional pub, but worth a visit.

Official site of the Sutton Hall pub - www.suttonhall.co.uk