Every week, we like to highlight a local venue to show off what makes hospitality in the borough so special.

Today we feature The Shoulder Of Mutton in Holcombe Village which was first built in the 18th century. The pub completed a refurbishment in summer last year after being closed for around six months. 

The pub boasts a bar and restaurant as well as two beer gardens.

Landlord/landlady name:

Andy Hitchen

 How long have you been the landlord/landlady for? And how are you finding it?

The Bolton News: The beer garden at the Shoulder of MuttonThe beer garden at the Shoulder of Mutton (Image: Newsquest)

Just under a year. Loving it! It has been a great year seeing the pub and team develop and grow from a standing start!

 Give us some history about the pub:

The pub was built in 1751 and has had a history of hosting long-gone sporting events such as cockfighting. The village of Holcombe was bombed in the First World War and The Shoulder Of Mutton was damaged by shrapnel.

Is food served? If so please describe it or if there are plans to in the future

We serve locally sourced food daily. We have all the traditional pub classics as well as our weekend specials. We try to keep all our suppliers local and change the menu according to the season.

 Is there a beer garden? Please describe

We have an outside seating area which we will be upgrading over the next couple of months.

The Bolton News: The Shoulder of Mutton has a wide selection of drinks on offerThe Shoulder of Mutton has a wide selection of drinks on offer (Image: Newsquest)

 What is the most popular drink served and why?

Our best sellers are our Timothy Taylor's Landlord, and our Moorhouse's White Witch, as they are both firm favourites of our locals and regulars!

What are the biggest challenges within the industry and how can you overcome them?

The biggest challenge for us is the rising costs. Everything is a lot more expensive and cost control has become more important than ever.

The Bolton News: Pub grub at The Shoulder of MuttonPub grub at The Shoulder of Mutton (Image: The Shoulder of Mutton)

 What is the best thing about running a pub and why?

The best thing about running a pub is seeing new and old customers having a great time. Nothing is better than a busy Sunday afternoon atmosphere at The Shoulder!

What is the worst thing about running a pub and why?

The worst thing about running a pub is issues that we can't control - the British weather!

Do you own or run a pub or bar in Bury that you'd like us to feature? Get in touch with us at Burynews@newsquest.co.uk