Chef Aiden Byrne announces he’s leaving The Church Green pub after 16 years

"This journey has been filled with countless memories, laughter, and shared moments that we will forever cherish..."

By Ben Arnold | 13 May 2024

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Manchester chef Aiden Byrne has announced that he’ll be leaving The Church Green in Lymm after 16 years at the helm.

Byrne has run the historic pub with his wife Sarah since 2008, but has confirmed that it will be taken on by another ‘independent operator’ as of the end of this week.

In a post to Instagram, he said: “After 16 incredible years, Sarah and I have reached the bittersweet decision to step away from The Church Green on the 19th of May. 

“This journey has been filled with countless memories, laughter, and shared moments that we will forever cherish.

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to each one of you—our amazing customers, dedicated suppliers, and invaluable team members—for your unwavering support and commitment to TCG and the vibrant community of Lymm Village. 

Church Green Lymm

“Your patronage and friendship have been the heart and soul of this establishment, and we are endlessly grateful for the relationships we’ve built over the years.

As we embark on this new chapter to pursue other opportunities, we leave knowing that The Church Green will continue to thrive under the care of another independent operator, who will undoubtedly bring their own passion and vision to this beloved space. 

“We have every confidence that you will be in excellent hands, and we eagerly anticipate the exciting journey ahead for all involved.

“With a couple more weeks before we bid farewell, we hope to see as many of you in person as possible. Let’s share a toast to the memories we’ve made and the friendships we’ve forged.

“Once again, thank you from the depths of our hearts for being a part of our story. Your support has been the foundation of our success, and we will forever cherish the memories we’ve created together. Here’s to the future and the enduring spirit of community that binds us all.”

Merseyside-born Byrne came back to the north in 2008 after a stints running the The Commons in Dublin, where he won a Michelin star, Restaurant Tom Aikens and the Grill Room at the Dorchester Hotel.

As well as the Church Green, he also opened Manchester House on Bridge Street in 2013, which featured in the BBC documentary Restaurant Wars. It closed in 2018.