About This Pub
Ah, JW Lees – it's like chatting about that reliable old mate who's been around since 1828, brewing up a storm in Manchester and beyond. From what I've gathered from the buzz online, this family-run outfit really shines with their welcoming staff; stories of managers turning pubs into vibrant community hubs are heartwarming, and it's clear they've got a knack for creating spaces where you can relax with the family or even bring the dog along. The beers are a highlight too, straight from their Greengate Brewery, adding that authentic touch to your visit. On the flip side, though, it's not all pints and cheers – some folks have had off days with the food, like underwhelming fish and chips that didn't quite hit the mark, and it seems consistency can be a bit hit or miss across their various spots. Still, with pubs stretching from Greater Manchester to North Wales, there's plenty to explore if you're up for a bit of an adventure. Overall, I'd say it's worth popping in for the atmosphere and a chat, but maybe check recent feedback first to pick the best one for your taste – it's all about that balanced experience, right?
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The staff are absolutely brilliant – from what I've heard, managers like Tina at The Pack Horse have really turned things around, making the places welcoming and full of character.
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Some spots offer really comfortable rooms and great amenities, like at The Groes Inn, where folks have raved about the views and cosy stays.
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Food can be spot on in certain pubs, with well-judged portions and reasonable prices, as mentioned in reviews from places like Netherton Hall.
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It's a family and dog-friendly setup, which is perfect for a relaxed day out, and they've got a wide range of pubs across Manchester, Cheshire, and North Wales.
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Being Manchester's oldest brewery since 1828, there's a real sense of history and pride in their beers, which adds to the charm of the visit.
Cons
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Food quality isn't always consistent; one recent visit mentioned tasteless fish and chips that were half the size you'd expect, which is a bit disappointing.
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There are mixed experiences across different locations, with some reviews pointing to underwhelming meals or closed sites when you fancy a stop.
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The overall rating sits at 3.7, and with a recent review being quite negative, it suggests things might not be as reliable as they'd like.
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Operating hours are limited to five days a week, typically from 9am to 5pm, so it might not suit those after a late-night pint or weekend escape.
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While they've got a good spread of pubs, not every one lives up to the hype, so you might need to pick and choose based on feedback.
Contact Information
369 Grimshaw Ln, Middleton, Manchester M24 2AX
+441616432487
Brewery
Open Now
Opening Hours
| Monday (Today) | 09:00 - 17:00 |
| Tuesday | 09:00 - 17:00 |
| Wednesday | 09:00 - 17:00 |
| Thursday | 09:00 - 17:00 |
| Friday | 09:00 - 17:00 |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Recent Reviews
Called today at the craigside manor. After it being closed we thought we would try it instead of the links hotel in llandudno. We found poor quality food and hot drinks we both had fish and chips of the only menu available with the fish being tasteless and half the size of that given in the links. The coffee served was substandard with little taste not one you would have expected from a hotel of this standard. Whilst the service was average the knowledge of staff was limited and they were unable to answer questions on the services and food J.W Lee's provide would not be returning for quite some time as the service and quality of food available is far superior in the Links hotel. Very disappointed when we could have got fish and chips for a lot less in llandudno.
I have been going in The Pack Horse in Birtle for 8 years.I have seen Managers come and go.The pub has now got one hell of a manager Tina.She turned the pub upside down and made a incredible job.Obviously she couldn’t have achieved this without impeccable staff that she has recruited.I will take my hat off to Tina and her fantastic team.
Well done Tina.
You are a very incredible lady.
Having relocated from Northern Ireland to Chester just one year ago we found the Goshawk our nearest pub establishment, 25 mins walk from our new house in Ashton Hayes. We have frequented it many times and have got to know the staff very well especially Neil the manager. Just today, June 19th 2022, Fathers Day we had a meal together with our son, his wife and our two granddaughters. As always the welcome and service was so good. The relaxed atmosphere and homely surroundings so enjoyable. Our granddaughters enjoyed the play area where we knew they were safe and within sight. On finishing our meal, much enjoyed by all and about to pay the bill, Neil came to us with a boxed Lees grip pint glass for myself and my son, the two fathers, plus a voucher for a free pint, completely unexpected but so touched that Neil took the time to give us this gift on such a special day. My son attended Chester Uni in 2000 and the last time he was with me on Fathers Day was around 16 years ago as he has settled in Chester with his wife and children so this is the first time together on this special day for many years and Neil has made this day even more special. Thank you Lees but more importantly thank you Neil and your staff for always looking after us but especially on this special day. Kindest regards. Norman and Jackie
We stayed at the Groes Inn last year. The rooms were very comfortable, had great amenities and spectacular views from the room. Inside the restaurant, excellent customer service and food to go back for. Thank you for a lovely weekend stay.
Stopped at the Netherton Hall at Frodsham a couple of weeks ago for lunch with my wife. The food was very good and the portions were well-judged. Service came with a smile and the prices are very reasonable.
If the standard can be kept consistent it's a gem.
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