The Bank Top Brewery Tap, Astley Bridge, Bolton

This pub used to be called The Carters. Local (Bolton) based brewery, Bank Top Brewery, recently took over the pub and have spent considerable time and, from the quality of the refurbishment, money in renovating the pub. The pub is decorated with pale walls and dark wood fittings. No juke boxes, no fruit machines, no pool table, no noise just a nice friendly, comfortable pub. There's a full range of Bank Top ales on tap with a few more common lagers - San Miguel and Carlsberg (I think). The staff are pleasant and helpful and the landlady will help you choose your ales if you're unsure which to go for. They also do a taster selection of 3 1/3 pint glasses so you dont have to risk a full pint to see if you like a new brew or not. There's also quite a nice selection of bottled continental lagers and beers should you fancy something different. The only downside of the pub is the small bar area. Anymore than 6 people and you're in a queue :( Other than that there's a cosy little snug area if you want a bit of peace away from the main bar! Having drunk in Bolton for over 20 years the 'Tap' as we call it is now probably the best 'local' pub in Bolton. If you like your ales in a quiet, grown up atmosphere you'll love this pub!