The Palatine - Salford - Pub Reviews

The Palatine Inn is a no-frills, traditional pub located at 45 Edward Street in the Lower Broughton area of Salford (M7 1SP). This stand-alone free house sits amid an industrial part of Lower Broughton, holding its own as a bastion of old-school charm even as modern redevelopment springs up around it. There’s no flashy corporate branding here – the Palatine is independently run, giving it a distinctly local character from the moment you step inside. Regulars are often greeted by name, and newcomers receive a friendly nod or welcome, reinforcing the pub’s community-focused vibe. The current customer ratings are middling (around 3.8 out of 5 stars), suggesting a modest reputation, though loyal patrons appreciate its authenticity. Opening hours run from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM Monday through Saturday (with Sunday hours a slightly shorter 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM), which is fairly standard for a neighbourhood pub.

Facilities & Entertainment

As a traditional back-street pub, The Palatine Inn keeps things simple when it comes to facilities. Notably, it does have parking available, a convenient perk given its location in a less pedestrian-heavy industrial area – drivers will find free street parking with ease. In warmer months, the pub’s large beer garden is a highlight. In fact, the Palatine proudly advertises its outdoor space as a “massive beer garden where everyone’s welcome”, offering plenty of benches and standing room for those who prefer to enjoy a pint in the open air. This beer garden doubles as a smoking area and a spot for occasional informal gatherings (on a sunny weekend you might encounter a barbecue or just groups of locals chatting outside).

What you won’t find at the Palatine are the typical modern pub entertainments. Darts and pool tables are absent, and there are no arcade games or high-tech amusements. Similarly, live sports aren’t a focal point here – there’s no wall of big screens blaring football matches. The atmosphere is geared more toward conversation and a laid-back drink than raucous sports viewing. In keeping with its old-school approach, the pub doesn’t host karaoke nights or DJs, and you won’t hear live bands on the weekends either. This is very much by design: The Palatine Inn embraces a “local pub” ethos over offering extensive entertainment options. Patrons looking for pub quizzes, live music, or televised sports will likely need to look elsewhere. However, for those who come to a pub primarily to relax and chat with friends, this stripped-down approach can be refreshing. The lack of constant digital distractions or loud entertainment means the conversation and camaraderie take centre stage, just as in decades past.

Food on Offer

One key thing to know before visiting is that The Palatine Inn does not serve food. This pub is firmly in the drinks-only category, positioning itself as a traditional watering hole rather than a gastropub or dining venue. There’s no kitchen in operation, so you won’t find a menu of burgers or fish and chips here – not even basic bar snacks beyond perhaps crisps or nuts behind the bar. The pub’s focus is squarely on beverages and social drinking. For some visitors, especially new ones, the lack of any food might come as a surprise or a disappointment. Indeed, some customer feedback notes that the absence of even a simple food offering is a missed opportunity. After all, a sandwich or hot pie could help keep people staying longer instead of heading out when hunger strikes.

That said, the no-food policy is also part of The Palatine Inn’s old-fashioned charm. It harkens back to an era when pubs were neighbourhood “locals” and rarely served meals. Regulars don’t seem to mind – many either eat before they come, or sometimes bring in a takeaway to enjoy with their pint (a common sight in traditional drinkers’ pubs). The bar staff generally don’t object if you quietly munch some brought-in food, as long as you’re tidy. If you do fancy a bite during your visit, you might plan ahead by grabbing something from home or a nearby takeaway. The immediate area being quite industrial means there aren’t many restaurants next door, but a short trip towards Salford or Manchester city centre will present plenty of eating options. In summary, come for the beer and banter, not a meal – The Palatine makes no pretensions of being anything but a drink-focused establishment.

Beers on Tap

The Palatine Inn may have a limited drinks selection, but it manages to keep the essentials covered. As a free house (not tied to any one brewery), it sells beers from the Joseph Holt’s range among its taps. Holt’s is a well-known Greater Manchester brewery famed for classic English ales and budget-friendly lagers, and fans of Holt’s will find comfort in the familiar pints here. Typically, you might find Holt’s Bitter or Mild on keg, alongside a standard lager and perhaps one or two other popular brands. However, it’s worth noting that real ale is not available – there are no cask-conditioned hand-pulled ales at the Palatine. The beer offering is more about straightforward pints than craft beer exploration. So, while you can get a decent pint of bitter or a smooth lager, ale aficionados seeking a rotating cast of micro brews or any kind of IPA might be out of luck.

The bar also stocks the usual array of domestic lagers, bottled beers, and basic spirits. Don’t expect a vast craft gin selection or cocktail menu – the choices lean towards standard pub staples. For example, you’ll likely see the likes of Carling or Foster’s (or similar popular lagers), Guinness or another stout, and a few bottled alcopops or ciders in the fridge. Wine is minimal (perhaps house red or white by the glass), since this isn’t the sort of place where wine is a big seller. The emphasis is squarely on beer and simple mixed drinks. On the plus side, because the selection is limited, the staff know their stock well and keep the turnover brisk – meaning the kegs are fresh. Beer quality is reported as acceptable; while you won’t get the nuanced flavours of a craft cask ale, the Holt’s keg beers are poured cold and crisp. Glassware is clean and the pints are generously filled. If you’re the kind of drinker who’s happy with a straightforward pint of bitter or lager, you’ll feel right at home. But if you have more adventurous tastes, you might consider having your first pint here for the atmosphere, then moving on to another pub for more variety.

Price Range & Value

One area where The Palatine Inn truly shines is affordability. This pub is known for its budget-friendly prices, which aligns perfectly with its working-class, local pub character. A night out (or afternoon round) here won’t break the bank – in fact, that’s a major draw for many of its regulars. Pints of Holt’s bitter and the like are typically priced on the lower end compared to city-centre pubs or trendy bars. You can expect most beers to cost around the £3 mark (give or take, depending on current market prices), which in 2025 is quite a bargain in Greater Manchester. The price range is symbolised as “£”, meaning it’s among the cheapest tiers. Locals often comment on the great value; as one summary put it, “visitors find the prices reasonable, making it an attractive option for those looking for affordable drinks in a pleasant setting.”

Value for money here isn’t just about the sticker price of a pint, though. Patrons also appreciate that the drinks are poured properly and the atmosphere comes free of charge. There’s no entry fee, no pressure to spend on food or extras – you can nurse a pint or two over a long chat and feel completely comfortable. Cash is king at the Palatine Inn (it’s reportedly a cash-only bar, so plan accordingly as card payments may not be accepted). Fortunately, with such low prices, you won’t need to carry a thick wad of cash for an evening. In terms of value, the pub delivers exactly what you pay for: no-frills drinks in a no-frills venue. Most customers feel they get their money’s worth, especially compared to pricier, more upscale establishments. If you measure value in pints-per-pound and quality of community vibe, The Palatine Inn scores highly. Just don’t come expecting craft cocktails or gourmet offerings – the value here is all about simple drinks at low cost in a down-to-earth setting.

Customer Service

Despite its rough-and-ready appearance, customer service at The Palatine Inn gets generally positive marks from those who frequent it. The pub has a small, tight-knit staff – often you’ll find the same faces behind the bar day in and day out, which helps build that community feeling. Regulars will tell you that the bartenders and the landlord are friendly, attentive, and welcoming. In fact, many reviews highlight the “welcoming community” atmosphere fostered by the staff and locals alike. From the moment you walk in, you’re likely to receive a hello or a smile. New visitors aren’t left standing awkwardly; the staff is quick to serve you and might even engage in a bit of friendly chit-chat (unless the bar is very busy). There’s a genuine, down-to-earth northern hospitality at play – no forced corporate politeness, just real people who enjoy running their pub.

Because The Palatine is not usually packed to the rafters (except perhaps on certain peak times), the staff have the chance to be attentive to individual customers. Empty glasses tend to be noticed and refilled with a prompt “Same again?”. If you become a repeat visitor, don’t be surprised if the staff start remembering your usual drink or asking how you’ve been. This personal touch makes up for the lack of modern amenities; it’s the kind of place where the bartender might step out from behind the bar to help an elderly regular carry their drinks to a table, or where they’ll happily chat about the latest local news. Of course, experiences can vary – an occasional comment suggests that when the pub does get busy, service might slow down a tad, or that not every newcomer immediately feels the warm embrace that the regulars do. Also, given the straightforward service style, don’t expect things like table service or elaborate cocktail-making; it’s strictly order-at-the-bar and simple orders. Overall, the feedback on service is that it’s warm and community-oriented, contributing significantly to patrons’ enjoyment of the pub. In summary, if you appreciate personable, unpretentious service over polished but impersonal efficiency, The Palatine Inn will likely leave you with a smile.

Events & Special Nights

When it comes to events and special theme nights, The Palatine Inn keeps a low profile. In fact, at present there are no regular events or themed nights promoted by the pub. Unlike some pubs that have weekly quiz nights, live bands, or special food nights, the Palatine doesn’t have an established calendar of happenings. This ties back to its character as a simple local pub – the entertainment is largely the day-to-day banter among patrons rather than organised events. You won’t find posters for karaoke Fridays or pub quiz Tuesdays here. There’s no theatre upstairs, no DJ booth, and no sports night promotions. The absence of events is a conscious choice to maintain the pub’s easygoing, come-when-you-like environment.

That’s not to say nothing ever happens. Occasionally, the pub might host informal gatherings for holidays or local celebrations. For example, around Christmas time or New Year, the regulars often pack the place for impromptu festive drinks, and the pub may extend hours slightly or put up extra decorations. The community aspect means that if there’s a big occasion (say a locals birthday or a notable football match that enough people request to watch), the Palatine Inn can feel like a private party – albeit one open to anyone who drops in. There’s mention that the pub is suitable for “festive celebrations like Christmas Eve events” as a friendly gathering spot, which suggests many locals do treat it as a go-to venue during holiday times. Management has floated ideas such as introducing a quiz night or acoustic music occasionally (as even the pub’s own review notes, these could “inject a touch of variety”), but as of now, those remain just ideas. If you’re planning a visit and hoping for live entertainment, it’s best to temper those expectations. The Palatine’s charm is in its day-in, day-out consistency. Should you crave some excitement, you can always rally a game of cards or bring a board game to play with friends – the pub is open to patrons making their own low-key fun. In summary, The Palatine Inn doesn’t rely on events to draw a crowd; its regulars come for the familiar faces and conversation. Any special happenings are a bonus rather than a staple.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Walk into The Palatine Inn and you’ll immediately sense the unpretentious, old-fashioned atmosphere that defines the place. The interior décor is simple and a bit dated, but kept clean and comfortable. Think plain painted walls (with perhaps the odd beer poster or historic photo of Salford), sturdy functional furniture, and a well-worn carpet underfoot. There’s no designer flourish or trendy vintage-chic styling – it’s genuinely a throwback to a 20th-century local pub. This simplicity, however, is exactly what many patrons find endearing. The vibe is cosy and inviting in a humble way. Lighting tends to be warm but not too dim, and on a quiet afternoon you might even find it peacefully subdued inside, with sunlight peeking through the windows. On colder days, if there’s a fireplace or heater, you can bet it becomes a favourite spot for an older regular with their newspaper. In essence, The Palatine offers a “cosy environment, ideal for those seeking a relaxed place to unwind”, where the loudest sound is often just laughter or the clink of pint glasses.

The clientele here skews toward an older, local crowd – long-time Salford residents who have been coming for years. Many have stories linked to the pub and neighbourhood, giving the place a bit of a “everyone knows everyone” feel on weeknights. That said, it’s inclusive and friendly to newcomers as well. Younger patrons do occasionally drop in for a quiet pint or two, especially those who prefer a low-key pub over the bustle of city bars. By early evening, you’ll usually find a core group of regulars at the bar, chatting about everything from local news to reminiscing about “how the area’s changed.” This creates a laid-back, community-centric atmosphere where it’s easy to strike up a conversation even if you’re not a local – the person on the next stool might very well say hello. There is typically some background music playing (likely a mix of classic rock, Motown, or chart oldies at a modest volume), but nothing too intrusive. The lack of televisions or loud sports commentary actually makes it easier to socialise or simply enjoy your drink in peace.

In terms of layout, the Palatine Inn has a traditional two-room setup, or at least it did historically. There’s a main bar area and a separate lounge or “snug” area. The main bar is where you’ll find the action – a horseshoe-shaped bar counter where regulars tend to stand or sit on stools. The smaller lounge, if open, offers table seating and a slightly quieter space; it might be used on busier nights or reserved for small private gatherings on occasion. Décor-wise, expect elements like frosted glass in the windows, perhaps a mirror advertising a beer brand, and standard pub wooden tables. During peak times (for example, a Friday night), the pub can get a nice buzz of conversation, but it rarely gets too crowded or rowdy. It’s the kind of place that “feels warm and buzzy without being rowdy – animated but still comfortable enough to chat”, much like a classic community pub should be.

Accessibility: Being an older establishment, The Palatine Inn does have a few limitations. The entrance is street-level, possibly with a small step – many such pubs have a single step up from the pavement, so wheelchair users might need assistance getting over the threshold. Once inside, the ground floor is all one level, and there’s no additional upstairs area, so mobility within the pub is fairly straightforward. The space between tables and the bar can be a bit tight when it’s busy, simply because it’s a compact venue. The pub’s toilets are basic and located toward the rear; they are likely not fully accessible (e.g., no disabled stall), given the age of the building. There isn’t much in the way of high-tech accommodation (no electronic doors or hearing loops). However, the staff are very helpful – if someone with mobility issues or other needs comes in, they won’t hesitate to lend a hand (for instance, carrying drinks to a table for someone who can’t manage easily through a crowd). For outdoor accessibility, the beer garden is directly accessible from the side or back door without stairs, making it easy to step outside for fresh air. In summary, while The Palatine Inn isn’t a modern accessible venue, it manages within its historic constraints, and the personable service helps bridge some gaps. Patrons with specific accessibility concerns might want to call ahead, but generally the pub is small, level, and navigable, if not officially accessibility-optimised. And on a pleasant day, the ample beer garden offers an open-air option for those who find the indoor space a bit confining.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Lower Broughton, where The Palatine Inn is located, is a part of Salford with an industrial heritage and a residential community feel. The pub itself is tucked away on a side street (Edward Street at the corner of Catlow Street), in what might initially seem an out-of-the-way spot. It’s about a mile north of Manchester’s city centre – in fact, Manchester Victoria Station is roughly 0.8 miles (about a 15-minute walk) from the pub, making the Palatine surprisingly close to the action considering its quiet surroundings. This means that if you’re in Manchester’s city core, a quick taxi or a moderate walk can bring you to The Palatine Inn for a change of scene from the usual city bars. Similarly, Salford Central station is under a mile away to the south, and several bus routes run near the area (the pub is noted as being “close to bus routes” for convenience). Despite this connectivity, the immediate vicinity of the pub is fairly subdued – you won’t step out of the door into a bustling high street. Instead, you’ll find yourself in a mix of old red-brick terraced houses, some light industrial units, and new apartment blocks from recent redevelopment projects.

While Lower Broughton is not a typical tourist destination, there are a few notable spots within a short distance. If you’re interested in local history, Salford itself has some gems: the Salford Museum & Art Gallery and the beautiful Peel Park (one of Britain’s first public parks) are about a mile west of the pub, near the University of Salford campus. For music and sports fans, the AO Arena (Manchester Arena) is just on the other side of the River Irwell (by Victoria Station), so The Palatine Inn could be a unique pit-stop before or after a concert/event there – offering a much more relaxed pint at local prices compared to the city centre bars. Additionally, the pub is not far from some of Salford’s other characterful pubs: for instance, the historic Kings Arms and Eagle Inn (both known for live music and artsy vibes) are within a mile or so to the south, closer to Chapel Street. These could form part of a little Salford pub crawl if one was so inclined. Closer to The Palatine, however, the “attractions” are more everyday in nature: local shops, a take-away or two on nearby streets, and the sight of ongoing redevelopment projects that are transforming the neighbourhood (new housing blocks, community centres, etc., speak to Salford’s regeneration efforts).

One advantage of the Palatine’s location is the peace and authenticity it offers. You’re off the beaten path here, seeing a slice of real Salford life rather than a curated tourist experience. It’s the kind of place you might find yourself if you’re intentionally exploring beyond Manchester’s glossy outskirts, or if you happen to live or work nearby. Do note that because the area is quiet, walking around late at night feels very different than in a busy city quarter – it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, though there’s a tight-knit community that looks out for each other. If you drove in, you’ll be happy to find that parking is generally easy on the adjacent streets (a rarity this close to a city centre). And if you fancy a bit of nature, the River Irwell is a short walk east; there are some riverside walking paths that can be pleasant during the daytime. Overall, while Lower Broughton won’t offer a list of tourist sights, The Palatine Inn’s proximity to central Manchester and other Salford venues makes it a neat little starting point or ending point for a wider outing. It provides a quiet contrast to the city – you could spend an hour here, then be among the bright lights of Manchester a few minutes later, effectively getting two very different experiences in one trip.

Overall Impression

The Palatine Inn offers a slice of pub life that’s increasingly rare: it’s an unembellished, authentic local in an age of trendy bars and corporate chains. This pub’s charm lies in its sheer simplicity and the sense of community it fosters. It may not tick every box on a typical pub-goer’s checklist – there’s no food, no real ale, no high-end decor, and the entertainment is minimal – but for many, those omissions are part of the appeal. A visit to the Palatine feels like stepping back a bit to simpler times: you come in for a pint and a chat, and that’s exactly what you get. As one description aptly summarised, “it’s a pub for those who value simplicity, good company, and a pint that doesn’t break the bank”. In that regard, The Palatine Inn absolutely delivers. The beers are cheap, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the people (both staff and fellow patrons) are friendly. It’s the kind of place where lingering over a couple of pints on a weekday afternoon, trading stories with a stranger-turned-friend at the bar, feels like time well spent.

Of course, it’s not a pub for everyone. If your ideal pub outing includes craft beer flights, gourmet burgers, or the big match on a giant screen, you’ll be happier elsewhere. The Palatine’s 3.9/5 above average rating reflects that it doesn’t impress across the board – some visitors see only what’s “missing” (no food, dated interior, limited drink choices) and judge it harshly for that. Indeed, there is room for improvement: introducing a couple of real ales or a small rotating guest beer would please the ale enthusiasts, and adding a simple food offering (even just toasties or pies) could broaden its appeal without losing the local vibe. An occasional quiz or acoustic music night, as long as it remained community-driven, might also inject a bit more energy and draw in new faces. These tweaks could be made without alienating the regulars, who would likely welcome some variety as long as the pub’s core identity isn’t changed.

That said, the lack of certain features is also what keeps The Palatine Inn grounded and genuine. It knows what it is and doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. After spending time here, many people come to appreciate its authenticity. In a rapidly changing Salford, with modern apartment blocks and new venues emerging, the Palatine stands as a reminder of the classic English pub experience – one rooted in community, conversation, and affordability. It’s a pub that feels owned by the locals (even though it’s independent, not literally community-owned) because it so clearly caters to their tastes and comfort. In conclusion, if you’re in the area and want to experience a down-to-earth Salford pub with friendly folks and cheap pints, give The Palatine Inn a try. It may not dazzle at first glance, but its charm lies in its no-frills honesty and the warm welcome you’ll find within.