The Holly Bush, Northwich

A very charming old building ,timber framed and in local brick,there is a barn conversion to the rear offering accomodation.The interior is traditional with a nesting of rooms off a central corridor.A large restaurant in two sections is followed by a discrete two table dining snug,while the tap room at the end is very authentic with a low ceiling,leather bound bench seating,a darts board,fireplace and small bar access.The servery is a small alcove off the corridor and had two real ales,Castle Rock Harvest Pale (in very good nick) and Wickwar Sundowner.Shame that both were similar low strength beers,a more varied selection would have gained more points for this timeless country pub where there is no muzak,screens or other modern distractions. Pop in if passing,it's 10 minutes uphill from the Trent & Mersey along a busy road.

Saturday evening February 2016. Party of 19. Pre-booked and pre-ordered. This is really a juxtaposition pub. Really old building where there is a quaint bar and small room with little alcoves that the locals sit and pass away the time. On the back is a new extension where a very busy kitchen provides very good quality meals at a very reasonable price. In a barn and Granery conversion they have some 14 rooms and so there is no end to the market that they are targeting. However, we were there for a meal and everybody agreed that the food was well presented, well cooked and very good portions. The menu is not massive but covers all major food groups and everybody was able to find something to their liking. Kitchen staff did very well in getting the meals out at the same time and the waitress service was courteous and friendly and a great evening was had by all. Real ale is available along with all the other drinks you would expect. Would definitely recommend a visit here.