English Lounge, Manchester

A larger pub than it first appears, as the main bar has been extended through to the adjacent building (which explains the very substantial wall as seen beside the openings between the two main seating areas). There is apparently also a 'Library' room upstairs. Mid-market decor, with a fair range of old-style and newer furniture. Five of the six handpumps were on, offering Cumberland, Pride, Landlord, Pedigree and Moorhouse's Premium Bitter (£3.00). Overall, it's website's own description of " a traditional country pub in the heart of Manchester" isn't that wide of the mark, spoilt mainly by its location opposite the charmless monstrosity that is the Arndale Centre.

A shame, this, as I clearly just wandered in at the wrong time (early evening on a Monday). There are six handpumps but every single one was off, as the barman told me with a shrug "well, we ran out at the weekend". Fair enough, obviously a popular place, but lots of pubs do a brisk trade over the weekend and manage to replenish their stocks fairly quickly. So my rating could have been higher - as it is, its quite a nice place to sit, with dark wood, bookshelves, attractive little booths and leather sofas. Appears to have a good reputation for its food as well; Only disappointing my craving for a decent pint went unsatisfied.

Usually have 3 or 4 beers on tap. Nothing particularly exciting, Deuchars, Black Sheep etc and always kept OK if not really top notch. Very comfortable pub with with leather sofa's/seats in parts. It's close to Victoria Staion as well which is why we usually call in on our way back for the train. Wouldn't do a major detour to visit though.