The Regal Moon (JD Wetherspoon), Rochdale

Grand cinema conversion overlooking The Butts, although the slightly split-level interior hasn't retained as many original features as some of this ilk. Older (i.e. darker and more traditional furniture)and mostly movie-themed decorative features. Excellent selection from the two banks of six handpumps, with six pre-festival beers (including my Peerless Sup, £2.31, but perhaps a bit 'end of the barrel') and three other guests in addition to the trio of Ruddles, Doom Bar and Abbot.

Bit of a beauty, a converted 1930’s cinema. Inside has lovely dark wood curved walls with prints of old stars from the big screen everywhere, ornate pillars and a real jazz-era feel. As mentioned below, it’s quite sprawling, but in a good way. The bar is against the right wall and has Art Deco stylings (love the raised lit box) and a mannequin playing a Wurlitzer above, which can give you a startle if you don’t notice it straight off. A plethora of guest cask, my Phoenix Porter was in good shape (NBSS 3.5). I really liked it here and could have easily stayed longer, next time I will. A really good Spoons and it really should be in the GBG. 8.5