The Kingfisher, Oldham

A new build Marston's house alongside the canal but only the exterior benches give a good view of any boating action.You have to register your car if you use the car park and you enter to the side with a large bar infront.To the right is a small area with pine high tables infront of a terrestrial sports tv,while the rest of the interior has an antiseptic pub dining atmosphere where folk gorge on the food service crud. A lot of handpumps but just Pedigree and Wainwright Gold on my trip which was very brief. It's all very corporate and a bit depressing.the Railways isn't far away and thats a proper boozer with well kept ale.

Think this closed for a refurb at one point last year and my November 2017 visit was after it had reopened. I don't think it is a 2-for-1 place on meals anymore, seems to be trying to be a bit upmarket. You can always tell when a place had reopened or had a refurb or change of owner as the staff are overly attentive. This usually wears off once the reality of dealing with the general public grinds them down a bit. It was still very shiny and nicey nicey when I went. This place is obviously geared towards dining and there was nothing exciting in the way of real ale. Bombardier Glorious English was the only one available; looks like they also do Wainwright but the pump clip was turned round. There were a couple of ciders - Stan's by Thatchers. Not really a drinkers' pub (though I was not made to feel unwelcome) but thought I would give it a try as I was passing.

This is a huge Marston's pub doing a vast range of food. It is a 2 for 1, so if eating you need to go with a friend. We both had the Lamb Steak at £14.95 which was one of the dearest meals, but when you half the price it is not bad value. The food was good, staff very friendly, and we had a perfect pint of Lancaster Bomber.