About This Pub
Ah, The Silk Trader – it's one of those pubs that really has potential to be a favourite in Macclesfield, with its stylish interior inspired by the local silk history, making it feel fresh yet homely. I love that they've got a solid range of Robinsons beers and a beer garden that's spot on for a sunny afternoon, plus it's super dog-friendly and well-placed near the train station for an easy meet-up. The function room sounds like a winner for birthdays or gatherings, all kitted out nicely. But, honestly, it's not all smooth sailing; I've heard from a few mates that the opening times can be unpredictable, and some recent experiences with food, like a cold buffet that fell flat, have left a bad taste. The staff haven't always been as welcoming as you'd hope, and the place can look a bit untidy, which is a pity because it used to have such a warm, community feel. Overall, if you're up for giving it a go, maybe pop in on a quiet day and keep your expectations in check – it could be a cracking spot with a bit more consistency.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The interior is really nicely done, drawing from Macclesfield's industrial history with modern touches like muted greys and heritage greens – it creates a cosy, welcoming vibe that's perfect for a relaxed catch-up.
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They've got a fantastic selection of Robinsons beers, wines, spirits, and even craft options, plus a beer garden that's ideal for enjoying a pint in the sun or dining alfresco.
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It's dog-friendly, which is brilliant if you're out with your furry friend, and there's WiFi and EV charging nearby, making it convenient for everyone.
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The function room is a great spot for parties, newly refurbished and can hold up to 50 people with its own bar and dance floor – sounds like it could be a hit for special occasions.
Cons
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Opening hours seem a bit hit and miss lately, with some folks turning up to find the place closed when it should be open, which is frustrating if you're planning a visit.
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Food experiences have been disappointing based on recent feedback, like cold buffets that don't live up to expectations, so it might not be the best choice for a proper meal just yet.
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The atmosphere can feel unwelcoming at times, with reports of unfriendly staff and dirty tables, which takes away from what could be a lovely spot.
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It's a shame about the overall vibe in some visits, as the place used to have a friendly, regulars-at-the-bar feel, but it hasn't been consistent recently.
Contact Information
37 Brook St, Macclesfield SK11 7AD
+441625420504
Pub
Opens at 14:00
Opening Hours
| Monday | 14:00 - 23:00 |
| Tuesday | 14:00 - 23:00 |
| Wednesday | 14:00 - 23:00 |
| Thursday | 14:00 - 23:00 |
| Friday (Today) | 14:00 - 23:00 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Recent Reviews
My daughter had her 30th birthday party, in the function room upstairs. A buffet was paid for £100 pounds. What she received was absolutely deplorable. 🤬 3 pizzas, 1garlic pizza, all cold. 12 cut baps with nothings on or in them, a chip basket with a few rank, cold sausage rolls and another with cold cocktail sausages, a small bowl of salad and a few pickles. The one star is for the bar staff that kept going down to the main bar for drinks that they didn't have on offer upstairs. No lock on the toilet door, no toilet paper in both toilets, asked on many occasions, to no avail. We did have a good night, only because we made it a good night
Good job we all had a sence of humour.
When is this even open anymore? Since November the opening hours are totally fictional...12? 2? 4? 6? Numerous times we have turned up to closed doors and no lights on. On the rare occasion where we have been granted admission the atmosphere has been unwelcoming and the barstaff unfriendly.
10/11/23: waited for 15 minutes after opening time, then gave up. No sight of anyone inside.
Hadn't been for a while so thought we'd go back. Definitely won't be going again.
It used to be a lovely pub. Regulars always sat at the bar. Always had a friendly atmosphere.
NOT any more . Tables were dirty empty glasses everywhere. Ashtrays dirty and all over tables, the whole place just had a dirty unclean feeling to it . Made you feel uncomfortable.
We quickly finished our drink & left.
Went to the other pub bit further up.
Got to say the whole thing upset me as I used to work there. It was such a lovely place.
So come on the new landlord get it sorted
Friendly staff, lovely decor and comfy furniture. Great beer and food plus pool and football... what more could you ask for?
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