The Old Wellington - Manchester - Pub Reviews

As one of Manchester’s most iconic pubs, The Old Wellington stands out for its remarkable history and unique architecture. We visited to explore what makes this historic gem a lasting favourite - here’s what we found.

Name: The Old Wellington

Location: 4 Cathedral Gates, Manchester, M3 1SW

Phone: 0161 839 5179

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM

• Friday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM

• Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.0)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No

• Darts & Pool Table: No

• Live Sports: No

Food on Offer:
The Old Wellington offers a menu influenced by over 150 years of British heritage, featuring high-quality dishes made from the freshest ingredients. As proud pie connoisseurs, their menu includes a variety of pies, alongside hearty pub classics. Patrons can expect traditional British fare.

Beers on Tap:
The pub serves a superb range of cask ales from specialist breweries. Regular offerings include Nicholson's Pale Ale by St Austell Brewery. Guest ales vary, with up to six different options available. Recent selections have featured:

• Neck Oil by Beavertown

• Gamma Ray by Beavertown

• Doom Bar by Sharp's Brewery

• Tribute by St Austell Brewery

Price Range: ££ (Moderate)

Customer Service:
Feedback on customer service is generally positive, with patrons appreciating the friendly and efficient staff. However, some reviews mention occasional delays during peak hours. Overall, the service is well-regarded, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.

Events & Special Nights:
The Old Wellington hosts various events, including dining events where guests can enjoy hearty pub grub and a selection of real ales. The pub can accommodate groups, making it suitable for social events or celebrations.

In-Depth Review:
Stepping into The Old Wellington is like taking a journey back in time. Built in 1552, this half-timbered pub stands as Manchester's oldest building of its kind. Its rich history is palpable, having once been home to some of the founders of Manchester commerce, including those behind the city's first bank and the cotton industry. Originally located next to the Market Square on what is now Market Street, the building was moved 100 meters to its current site during a redevelopment program in 1998.

Owned by Nicholson's Pubs, The Old Wellington is renowned for its individual style and charming personality. The pub attracts a diverse clientele, from history enthusiasts and tourists to local professionals seeking a traditional British pub experience. The atmosphere is cosy and inviting, with its historic architecture providing a unique backdrop for socialising.

While the pub does not offer on-site parking, its central location makes it easily accessible by public transport. Accessibility options such as wheelchair access, outdoor seating, or dog-friendliness are not clearly detailed, so it is advisable to contact the pub directly for more information.

The menu, influenced by over 150 years of British heritage, features high-quality dishes made from the freshest ingredients. As proud pie connoisseurs, The Old Wellington offers a variety of pies alongside hearty pub classics. Traditional British fare complements their selection of cask ales perfectly.

The pub serves a superb range of cask ales from specialist breweries. Regular offerings include Nicholson's Pale Ale by St Austell Brewery, with up to six guest ales available. Recent selections have featured popular brews such as Neck Oil and Gamma Ray by Beavertown, Doom Bar by Sharp's Brewery, and Tribute by St Austell Brewery.

In terms of pricing, The Old Wellington falls into the moderate range, offering value for the quality of food and drink provided. Customer service is generally praised, with staff described as friendly and efficient. However, some reviews mention occasional delays during peak hours, suggesting room for improvement in managing busy periods.

The pub hosts various events, including dining occasions where guests can enjoy hearty pub grub and a selection of real ales. The space is well-suited for social gatherings, birthday parties, and informal meetings, accommodating groups comfortably.

The Old Wellington offers a unique blend of historical charm and traditional British pub culture. Its rich heritage, diverse clientele, and quality offerings make it a must-visit in Manchester. While there are minor areas for improvement, such as service during peak times, the overall experience is both enjoyable and memorable.

Reviewed by: Pub Reviews Team
Visit basis: Local knowledge and historical research