The Baum, Rochdale

Interesting and award-winning pub, but perhaps not quite all it might seem? Housed in part of the Rochdale Pioneers building, but the age of the pub itself is uncertain? It also appears more food led than I was expecting, although none is served on Mondays (which happened to be the day I visited). Anyway, there is a lot to like in the various small seating / dining areas around the traditional-looking L-shaped interior (with the restaurant upstairs). I found six interesting real ales - including the unfined Repeater from Full Circle (£3.50 with Camra discount) - and a draught cider on the eight handpumps.

Visited The Baum for the first time earlier this week. 8 hand pulls at the bar with 6 of those available, including Bass for those so inclined (a beer I have never been that fussed about and don't really understand its cult following). That aside, there were two ales by Pictish (Samhain Stout and Tweed Pale Ale), Vocation Heart & Soul, Thornbridge Jaipur and a Salt collaboration beer called Inndustry. The Samhain Stout was £3 for a pint (£1.50 for a half) and that seemed to be the going rate for the other cask ales too, based on what other customers were ordering. This is a comfortable traditional feeling pub with banquette seating, tables (copper topped) and stools, dark wood, stained glass and a nice central island bar. Music was playing at a sensible volume. My ale was in tip-top condition and I really enjoyed my visit here. I shall definitely be back if I find myself in Rochdale again.