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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Daisy Jackson

The best pubs in and around Greater Manchester according to the Good Pub Guide 2021

Several pubs in the north west have been named as some of the best in the country in the latest Good Pub Guide.

The annual guide celebrates the best in British boozers, from the world-renowned food pubs to the locals famed for their gin collections.

In last year's awards, a Lancashire pub - the Inn at Whitewell - came out on top, but it was knocked off the top spot this year.

Even so, the popular countryside pub made the top 10, and also received a nod for its excellent wine selection.

The guide says of the Inn at Whitewell: "This elegant and sprawling manor house cuts an imposing silhouette against the surrounding landscape with spectacular views across the water to the Forest of Bowland."

The Inn at Whitewell near Clitheroe, Lancashire (Matthew Hartley / Flickr)

Other north west pubs to receive recognition in the Good Pub Guide 2021 include The Wharf, Manchester city centre's beautiful waterside boozer.

The Wharf reached the top 10 in the Town Pubs category, as did the Old Harkers Arms in nearby Chester.

Over in Uppermill, the Church Inn earned a top 10 place under the Own Brew Pub of the Year category.

The guide says that the Church Inn is an 'informal and friendly community local that always attracts a cheerful crowd of happy customers, despite its remote setting'.

It's home to the Saddleworth Brewery and has a 'a cheerful, friendly atmosphere'.

Church Inn, Uppermill (Handout)

This latest celebration of British pubs comes after what has been an incredibly challenging year for the industry - and the guide was published with a stark warning for pub fans.

Fiona Stapley from the guide has issued a 'use them or lose them'-style warning.

The Wharf (Manchester Evening News)

She said: "Despite being battle-weary and worried sick about keeping their businesses up and running – I am pleased to say that these plucky/extraordinary people retain a teeny spark of hope.

"All know that the road into 2021 (or until a vaccine is widely available) is going to be frighteningly rocky. 

"But they do believe that if they are able to pull together with loyal customers, local suppliers, a helpful bank and a great deal of energy and luck, many will survive.

"But – and I cannot stress this strongly enough – it is imperative that we support them because the British pub is special.

"It is the beating heart and focal point of countless communities, where customers from all walks of life come together and where you can be sure of a warm welcome, a cold pint or a frothing pint of ale and a friendly smile.

"It makes us happy to be there and we have to do all we can to ensure their survival."

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