The Kings Arms - Salford - Pub Reviews

We stepped onto Bloom Street and into The Kings Arms - Salford’s fringe‑theatre local where six ever‑changing casks, Brightside‑brewed Queen’s Legs and bingo‑night belly laughs mingle with playbills, pub quizzes and a crackling fire for a proper pint with a cultural twist.

Name: The Kings Arms

Location: 11 Bloom Street, Salford, M3 6AN

Phone: 0161 839 8726

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.0)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No dedicated parking, but street parking is available nearby.

• Darts & Pool Table: No darts or pool table facilities.

• Live Sports: The pub does not focus on live sports, but it offers a wide range of cultural and community events.

Food on Offer:

The Kings Arms offers a small but hearty menu, including traditional pub favourites. Expect typical fare like burgers, fish and chips, and comfort food specials, with a focus on affordable yet satisfying meals. The pub's emphasis is more on drinks and entertainment, with food playing a secondary but consistent role.

Beers on Tap:

The pub prides itself on its rotating selection of cask ales, with six pumps dedicated to real ale. Local and craft breweries are frequently featured, including collaborations with Brightside Brewery, which brews "The Queen’s Legs," a house pale ale that’s highly regarded. Seasonal and guest ales often make an appearance, offering variety to beer enthusiasts.

Price Range:

££ - Mid-range prices. Drinks are reasonably priced, with pints averaging around £4-5, depending on the selection. Food prices are similarly mid-range, making it accessible for casual visits and regular patrons.

Customer Service:

Feedback about the customer service is generally positive, with staff described as friendly and efficient. Quick service, even during busy times, is frequently mentioned, and the bartenders are noted for their knowledge of the real ales on offer. Some reviews highlighted occasional inconsistencies with opening times, but overall, the staff’s welcoming demeanour makes for an inviting atmosphere.

Events & Special Nights:

The Kings Arms is well-known for its vibrant events calendar. It hosts an array of performances in its upstairs theatre, from live music to comedy nights, and even dramatic productions. Regular quiz nights are a staple, attracting locals for friendly competition. The pub also organises themed events, such as special bingo nights, theatre festivals, and music performances, making it a cultural hotspot in Salford.

In-Depth Review:

The Kings Arms stands out as a unique establishment in Salford, blending the feel of a traditional pub with a thriving arts venue. The pub's character is bolstered by its Victorian architecture, complete with a cosy snug, wooden floors, and a welcoming, unpretentious ambiance. It’s a place where community meets culture, with an inviting beer garden for summer evenings and a roaring fireplace for winter.

The pub is owned and operated independently, which allows it to maintain a unique identity compared to chain-operated venues. It’s a beloved spot for theatre enthusiasts, artists, and anyone who enjoys a good pint in a lively setting. The upstairs theatre space is an intimate venue that attracts a mix of local and touring performers, and it's known for showcasing fringe theatre and innovative shows that you might not find in larger venues.

The clientele is diverse—ranging from young professionals to older regulars and creatives, all drawn by the pub's warm atmosphere, eclectic events, and commitment to quality ale. On any given evening, you might find a mix of theatre-goers, quiz participants, and casual drinkers, all sharing the space harmoniously.

The pub offers good accessibility, with step-free access to the main areas and a dog-friendly policy, making it a welcoming spot for all. The beer garden provides a pleasant outdoor space, complete with comfortable seating and space for socializing. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to explore local culture or simply enjoy a relaxed drink.

Strengths:

• Diverse Events: The Kings Arms hosts a variety of engaging activities, from live performances to quiz nights, making it a dynamic and ever-changing venue.

• Real Ale Selection: A strong focus on quality, local ales, with a rotating selection that caters to beer lovers.

• Welcoming Atmosphere: A laid-back vibe that attracts a diverse crowd, making it a great spot for socialising.

Areas for Improvement:

• Opening Hours Consistency: Some reviews noted inconsistencies with opening times, leading to occasional disappointment among potential visitors.

• Limited Food Focus: While food is available, it's not a primary draw, and a broader menu might appeal to a wider range of patrons.
  

The Kings Arms is a cornerstone of the local scene, where beer lovers and culture enthusiasts converge. Whether you’re in for a pint of a unique local ale or catching a fringe theatre show, it’s a place that effortlessly combines the spirit of a traditional British pub with the excitement of a cultural venue.

Reviewed by: Pub Reviews Team