Founder's Hall, Manchester

Substantial modern pub opposite the old town hall, a definitely more appealing than in its previous Duttons incarnation. Although under a modern office block, parts of the ceiling have been given slight arches that give the impression of a much older cellar-type construction (although the picture windows help dispel that notion of course). Sensible mix of modern furniture and some traditional decorative features throughout the partly sub-divided seating and dining areas. Also has plenty more tables under the arcaded frontage and out on the pavement. Four core JW Lees beers plus the Fruited Ale from the bank of seven handpumps along a pair from The Boilerhouse small-batch range: Twin Fire Ruby mild (£5.55) and Round Trip pale ale.

Now rebranded as Founders Hall and serving as a Lees showcase. Bar/restaurant with a smart modern interior, all themed around the brewery. Their full range of 7 cask on, and you can get a flight of three if you want. In fact, one gent did this before me which took the barman ages to put together. I tried the cask Black Rose milk stout which was gorgeous, like a dessert in beer form. It’s a decent place if a touch too modern for me and beware the prices, we’re a long way from Middleton here.

Facebook page of Founder's Hall - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of Founder's Hall - www.facebook.com

Official site of Founder's Hall - www.foundershall.co.uk

Official site of Founder's Hall - www.foundershall.co.uk