EACH week we put the spotlight on some of the finest wateringholes and venues in Bolton and surrounding areas and find out more about them and their love of the industry.

This time we have spoken to Mike Hales at the Railway Pub in Bromley Cross about the reasons for their success.

Name of the pub:

The Railway at Bromley Cross

Address of the pub:

37 Chapeltown Rd, Bromley Cross, BL7 9LY

Landlord/landlady name:

Michael Hales

How long have you been the landlord/landlady for?

3 years

Bar staff and their names:

Lewis is the General Manager with Kim as his Assistant

Give us some history about the pub:

We revived The Railway in 2018, it had been boarded up for some time and was considered a local eyesore. Since then, we’ve built a reputation as a family friendly pub and dining experience. With close links to local schools, sports teams and businesses we are proud to be a part of the community.

Is food served? If so what’s on the menu?

Yes, we serve a mixture of pub classics, big burgers and delicious pizzas. There truly is something for everyone.

Is there a beer garden?

Yes

Do you have any darts/snooker/pool teams?

No

Most popular drink served is:

Everybody loves a Railway Cocktail. Lewis and his bar team are excellent.

Most memorable moment at the pub:

Opening night back in 2018 was insane and such a relief. So much work had gone into getting the pub ready, but it was just the beginning.

Do you have an entertainment line-up?

Yes, we’ll have live acts every Saturday afternoon throughout December

Have you faced any challenges within the industry?

The enforced closures and outdoor only service under the Government’s COVID response have been unbelievably challenging. We were hit hardest in Bolton, but we’ve bounced back.

The best thing about running a pub is...

The people, the energy, the noise, the chatter.

The worst thing about running a pub is...

Sore feet, we cover some miles.

The perfect hangover cure is...

A weekend breakfast at The Railway followed by an afternoon nap.