The Beagle

The 18th Century writer Samuel Johnson once quipped that nothing made by people had produced as much happiness as “a good tavern”. Whether The Beagle can really be described as a pub has been a point of debate among Chorltonites for more than 15 years now. Either way, it certainly produces joy, with 456-458 Barlow Moor Road a bonafide go-to for those after pints, straights, cocktails, mixers, softies and pizzas, among other things. A claim backed up by the fact it’s always a lively spot, no matter the time of day or day of the week. 

From the outside, The Beagle has always felt more bar than anything else — it’s large, roadside windows allowing light to pour into interiors which are all floor-to-ceiling wood and 1970s-hued fabric furnishings. As anyone who comes here will tell you, though, vibe is more public house. A community hub and all-day hangout where everyone is welcome and everyone stays longer than they initially intended. 

That’s thanks at least in part to the friendly staff, who are ready to guide you through the extensive choice of drinks they’re pouring. You’ll find cask and keg beers on rotation, with options regularly plucked from Manchester’s thriving brewery scene, alongside more traditional ales from across the UK. If spirits are more your thing, there’s a particularly solid selection of bourbons and gins here, although you won’t go thirsty for Scottish and Irish whiskeys either. Especially if you arrive in time for Happy Hour, which runs 4-7pm Sunday to Thursday for most deals, and 8pm onwards on Fridays and Saturdays if you want a cocktail and any Nell’s OG pizza for a bargain. Speaking of which, The Beagle is one of a handful of kitchens serving this particular brand of Manchester-born, New York style pizzas,  which come in 14 or mammoth 22” sizes.