Greater Manchester is packed full of unique venues. The Strines Nightingale, which takes its name from a nightingale that was “waylaid” in the woods behind the building, is certainly one for the list. An independent free house country pub and member of the Music Venues Alliance, you’ll find this heritage address set against stunning scenery, but having undergone an extensive refurbishment during 2023, inside and out. It’s now a rural paradise for anyone who likes great drinks and intimate events.
Before we come to the latter, let’s focus on the former. A true indie, ten keg and five cask lines are on offer with hand-picked beers and more from local breweries like Blackjack, Pictish, Torrside, NBHD, Pomona, Cloudwater and Beartown. Those after wines and spirits are well catered for, too, and if you’re looking to fill a void the kitchen is on hand with a main menu running weekends 1pm to 8pm, focusing on vegetarian dishes, an extensive flatbread menu and a Sunday roast launching in autumn 2024. Meanwhile the pie and pint deal — at an incredible £10 — is a winner anytime this place is open. As for desserts, think homemade cakes and coffee from Darkwoods roasters.
Cast in the shadow of the Peak District, but just 20 minutes from Piccadilly, on arrival at The Strines Nightingale the first thing you’ll notice is the exterior. Three beer terraces and an outdoor woodland stage are waiting to be explored, with secret gigs and small parties regular occurrences. Back inside, the main Lounge Bar is a relaxed affair with huge fire place, rugs, throws, and incredible views out across the Goyt Valley. Here, pianists are often found performing on Sunday afternoons, with other free events including open mic, quizzes, resident and touring bands. Finally, a smaller parlour is dedicated to sports crowds, with a limited capacity (advance bookings are recommended), two large screens and cosy wood burner. Now if that’s not one of the most perfect descriptions of what a pub should be like, we don’t know what is.