BITE user comments - boltonbloke
Comments by boltonbloke
Recently freezing cold and getting difficult to get served due to locals hogging the bar and not moving to allow you to get served.
Maybe they are all hugging together in an effort to keep warm?
22 Dec 2013 11:40
Called here for a beer but could not get in the pub for smokers stood inside the entrance, they would not move to allow us in so we went elsewhere.
Note to landlord, they are smoking on the premises which means you are breaking the law!
17 May 2013 22:58
Rumours are the landlady is leaving after a row with the pub company over a flooded cellar during the Christmas period.
I hope this is not the case, this lady has turned this pub around and it would be a tragedy if she is allowed to go.
9 Feb 2013 01:37
While I have been critical of the new landlady in the past I'm of the opinion if she can't turn this pub around then its time to pull it down.
Good luck Christine, I wish you every success
9 Feb 2013 01:33
Sadly David and Jackie have called it a day and left the pub, its currently being run by a temp landlord.
The alarm bells were ringing a coupe of weeks ago when we overheard the new landlord and a few customers mocking the previous tenants, in particular barring people for swearing. They seemed to think having standards was a source of amusement.
This was brought home to me on my last visit when a customer tried to pick a fight with my friend and I, completely unprovoked I may add.
Turns out this guy was banned by David and Jackie but let in under the new management, well he may of gained a new customer but he has lost 3 more as we won't be stepping foot in here again, it also must be added the landlord was nowhere to be seen.
Its all very well letting low life like this back into the pub but at least the landlord should have the decency to be there to handle the trouble they cause rather than leave the staff to it.
The big draw of this pub was always you could have a few decent pints without being bothered by dick heads, looks like those days are well and truly over.
I give it six month before its boarded up or worse still advertising Karaoke nights.
6 Oct 2012 15:59
Thankfully shaken off the childish name and now back to being called the Saddle. The re fit has been very well done although it does have a 'spoons feel about it, but at �1.75 for a pint of decent Bank Top it can be forgiven for that.
One small observation, it could do with loosing the bar stools as the bar is to small for a pub of its size and getting served can be difficult when ignorant people wont move out of the way. Apart from that I can see it becoming very popular indeed
10 Jul 2012 20:05
Sadly its seems to the Bowler is not the place to take the missus for a civilised drink. On our last vist a member of staff (admittedly not working at the time) was sat at the bar repeatedly shouting "you F*cking c*unt" and "you F*cking tw*t " at a customer, the staff on duty were laughing as though he was some comedy genius rather than the foul mouthed cretin he really is.
I know pubs aren't churches but not all of us want to listen to that, we left and went to the V&A instead, were he would have been chucked out by the ever on the ball David.
15 Jun 2012 18:14
I think Paul and Kelly must be trying to restart the Temperence movement as very time I've been in recently the optics have been empty and so are the fridges, more often than not they are also out of lager.
Why he would still rather pay staff than work himself is a mystery as he clearly can't afford to buy new stock.
6 Jun 2012 19:45
A well deserved win of Camras Bolton pub of the year award.
Other pubs in Horwich may offer real ales but this is the only one with consistant good quality beers and effiecent staff. I can't understand why its not much busier.
2 Jun 2012 13:09
Good value for money food and drink made this a regular during our stay. Ok, its never going to have a Michelin star but we thought the food was surprisingly good considering its chain pub feel.
18 Mar 2012 17:42
The only decent pub in the town if our recent visit is anything to go by, fine real ales and a friendly barman made for a very pleasent stay in this clean, smart bar.
Odds and sods game is a nice quirk and meant us winning a free round, very welcome!
18 Mar 2012 17:36
A promising start, the pub has had a deep clean and a decent effort has been made to smarten up the toilets.
Two real ales (brewed localy by Dunscar bridge brewery) and a mild, all well kept and in good condition, I'm told the larger has also improved beyond recognition.
The new tenants are friendly and clearly won't stand any messing around, lets hope they make a go of it!!
18 Mar 2012 17:31
Dreadfull crapioke pub on the sea front. Full of obese, tattoo'd people with manky teeth, and thats just the women.
13 Mar 2012 16:01
Rarely have I seen such a bunch of scholars and sophisticates in one place before debating world events with such a command of the queens english.
12 Mar 2012 19:21
Called in here on a very cold Sunday afternoon, the roaring fire was a lovely treat and its great to find a pub that understands the need to keep customers warm and happy.
Although the pub its self is looking a little tired the Boondoggle was a great pint served by a really friendly lady who was very smiley and chatty, a great find.
1 Mar 2012 22:45
I'm impressed with your positve approach rather than the usual "if you don't like it don't come in" attitude thats turned almost every pub in Horwich into a dirty boozer.
I await the reopening with eager anticipation.
26 Jan 2012 18:14
How about sorting the disgusting toilets out?
Giving it a clean?
Getting rid of the knob heads who come in after last orders and get served while regulars get a refusal?
Getting rid of the coke heads?
Policing the pub so decent people can have a drink without being bothered by pissed up chavs?
Over 21 only?
Putting decent beer on with more imagination than just bloody Banktop?
Go to the Prince of Wales at Cowling brow or the Victoria at Aspull to see how it should be done.
25 Jan 2012 21:24
After walking out of Barristers because we could not get served despite only half a dozen people being in the pub this was a refreshing change.
Even though the pub was busy the friendly barman served us very quickly with some excellent Boondoggle which we enjoyed in a warn clean enviroment.
7 Jan 2012 10:16
The landlord wants to flatten this pub and build houses on it because he claims it doesn't make any money despite the efforts he has put in with live music ect.
After my visit on a quiet Friday eve the reason it doesn't make any money is obvious.....The staff are usless! One was ignoring customers to put half a dozen glasses in the washer and the other (skinny, light blue shirt, looks to be in charge) was far too busy with her mobile phone to be interupted by paying customers.
The bar service is so bad it seems they are deliberatly driving people away to keep trade down to justify the demolition of this lovely old building, shame on you all!!
7 Jan 2012 10:09
Should be in the top ten pubs on this site, a fine old fashioned pub thats always my first choice for a decent pint.
13 Nov 2011 21:57
An old fashioned and largely unchanged pub thats nicely fitted out with a strong community feel. On my visit the main clientele seemed to be couples enjoying a civilised drink in a idiot free enviroment. Two pints of Boondoggle went down very well and I left wishing I could have stayed longer.
13 Nov 2011 21:51
Yeah, thanks for that Kelly .You used the same user name when you were involved with the Bowling green.
23 Oct 2011 20:05
The best pub in Horwich? Its not even the best pub at the top of Church street facing Parish church!
Beer is variable at best, landord never serves prefering to employ a gangsters moll, most of the new customers are on pubwatch. I give it six months.
22 Sep 2011 22:12
I can only echo the comments made below by Bonnie.n.Clyde.
Beer recently has been terrible, the landlady and staff seem more interested in partying the night away, ultimate insult though is being told by some bit of a kid there is nothing wrong with the beer and no-one else has complained.
A real shame as it was Horwich's best little boozer.
6 Sep 2011 19:04
Deserves to be a lot busier than it is, cracking choice of real ales that are often changed and the landlord seems enthusiastic about them. No idiots and very nice surrounding are the added bonus, the best pub in Horwich at the moment.
6 Aug 2011 17:08
Does the landlord still go down the cellar at the end of every evening with stainless steel buckets full of the slops?
I wonder what he is doing with them?
6 Aug 2011 17:05
Another Bolton shithole. The pool table greets you as soon as you walk through the door, usually surrounded by pondlife who can't string a sentance together without spewing the F word through their rotten and missing teeth.
I recommend drinking Newcastle Brown in here, is a good hefty bottle that will come in handy later.......................
23 May 2011 21:05
Crooke Hall Inn, Standish Lower Ground
Downstairs bar is fantastic and a credit to the new Landlady. Don't normaly drink lager but it was a hot summers afternoon and two pints of Fosters went down very well, the best I've had in a long time.
Unfortunantly the village green next to the pub was full of lowlife drinking cans and bottles they had brought with them in Aldi bags. The language and general behaviour made the pubs play area unsuitable for children, a pity as the pub is a cracker.
29 Apr 2011 19:32
Sunk to an all time low this weekend. A sophisticate decided it would be hysterical to strip off and show the pub his genitilia, Abbey the barmaid walked passed and ignored him while the landland was so pissed she was struggling focusing, never mind speaking to him. People were walking out in disgust, no wonder.
14 Mar 2011 21:46
I notice the previous poster has only posted on this pub and no other, rather lacks credibitity, doesn't it?
landlady is always pissed and no longer fit to run a pub, fact. I understand you are probally a regular and feel the need to defend her out of some miss guided loyalty but you reaaly are wasting your time. Anyone who goes in this pub can see it for themselves
16 Feb 2011 00:17
Called in friday evening, it was more like a kindergarden than a pub. A large group of very young looking lads and lasses seemed unable to string a sentence together without it being on top note and littered with expletives.
Landylady to drunk to notice, staff to abused and put on to care. Decent people are leaving this pub in droves and soon all that will be left are yobs, a shame.
5 Dec 2010 13:17
Fantastic little boozer with great staff and first class real ale, a credit to its owners.
20 Nov 2010 16:44
Recently had a mini make over and looks a lot better for it.
Still the best option in Horwich for a decent pint of real ale at a good price, great staff and a fearsome landlady ensure a very pleasent evening.
20 Nov 2010 16:42
Judging by the recent clientele I am fully expecting to see a multi coloured flag hanging outside and a name change to "The strap a dick to me".
Truly a terrible pub, the DJ's deck made out of gaffer tape is a sight to behold
20 Nov 2010 16:34
The Man and Scythe Inn, Bolton
Behind the quaint frontage lies a filthy shit hole. The customers look like they would be more at home in a soup kitchen and I would not be at all suprised to find out it serves meths on draught.
Don't go in here with a full set of teeth and deviod of tattoos or you will get beaten up for being homosexual, probably.
8 Aug 2010 19:36
I am told its been bought by the Indian restaurant next door and is being converted into a "sophisticated wine bar", the mind boggles!!!
I hope the service in here is going to be better than the new owners currently provide, I can't see many poeple waiting an hour and a half for a drink
17 Jul 2010 20:27
I had massive reservations about the new landlord but credit were it is due, David has make an excellent effort to provide Horwich with a decent pub, its certainly looks very smart and I agree with the previous poster in that he seems to have got rid of the yobs. I just hope he keeps it up.
Nice choice of decent real ales on offer and quality is leagues ahead of the Bridge.
Do us a favour though David, take your hand out of the back of your pants!!
17 Jul 2010 20:19
Full of drunks on my weekend vist. One guy was stood in the main room playing the air guitar and knocking stools over, no intervention from the managment. The IPA was pretty good but our party left commenting nothing much has changed. They really need to nip this sort of thing in the bud if they want to clean the pub up, I can't see it lasting long otherwise
17 May 2010 13:06
I hear the gobshite from the Bridge has got this pub, God help us all!!
10 May 2010 20:41
Under new management and re-fitted since my last vist.
Karaoke now gone and a choice of several excellent real ales including Prospect.
Mores the pitty you can't get to the bar for locals hogging it and you've no chance of getting them to show some manners by stepping to one side from "their spot" to allow you to get served.
I won't be bothering again................
20 Apr 2010 13:16
The self appointed manageress remindes me of the Isley brothers song "behind a painted smile".....Still great beer and lively atmosphere although it can get overpowering at times
18 Apr 2010 20:12
Now shut, no doubt destined to become a Chinese or Indian restaurant.
18 Apr 2010 20:07
Times change I'm affraid, if its adultry you are looking for then the action has moved on to the Vic.
18 Apr 2010 20:04
The Peveril Of The Peak, Castlefield
This pub has been on my list of places for visit for a long time but every time time I've gone past it has been shut.
finaly caught it open last night and I'm so glad I did, the Deuchars IPA I sampled was simply superb and the character of the building added to the experence.
5 Feb 2010 19:57
Very busy on our vist, a member of staff guided us to a seat and delivered our drinks order to the table, very impressed with the service but less so with the average pint of Tetleys on offer.
As Holbornboy I wasn't keen on the pictures covering the interior and would consider the pub to be much better without them, same goes for the customer wandering around with a girlie mag sticking out of the back of his somewhat ample trousers.
Worth a vist but not one I will rush back to time and time again
5 Feb 2010 19:44
Mr Thomas' Chop House, Manchester
The decor may be stunning but the Robbinsons Unicorn was average to say the least. Its has the dubious honour of the first pub I've ever been in that has rung last orders at 8.30pm on a sunday evening!!
19 Jan 2010 19:06
The Grey Horse Inn, Manchester
Cracking little pub that looks though its been a house at one time. First class pint of hydes bitter in here, definantly the best pint of the day on our crawl round Manchester. Looking forward to a return visit to this pub very soon.
19 Jan 2010 19:00
Another blackpool pub thats too cold to sit in and have a drink. Average pint of Wells bombardier served at room temperature which in this case was around -5
3 Jan 2010 14:16
Freezing cold on my last vist, heating not on in the middle of december!!!
No real ales available, customers freely smoking at the bar and staff smoking behind it, the "door man" just swigged his pint of lager and looked on. A disgrace
3 Jan 2010 14:11
I loved the architecture of this building and had a cracking pint of lee's for reasonable money. One to add to my list when visiting Manchester for a few beers, a shame I've only found it now summer has gone as the outside seating area overlooking the canal looks very pleasent indeed.
13 Oct 2009 20:03
Ok for a quick drink for novelty value but you would'nt want to stay much longer in this dump unless bottled beers and the smell of piss is your thing.
Takes all sorts I suppose......
13 Oct 2009 19:57
Excellent beer if expensive and great food. Pub looking a bit tatty these days and I've also had problems getting to the bar even at lunch times.
In the evenings the pub smells of curry as (I believe) the owner is Indian and makes his own, they really are superb.
23 Aug 2009 13:47
I don't think I've ever felt more uncomfortable in a pub, everyone stopped talking and glared at us when the walked in and continued to do so throughout our vist.
Good beer, pleasent surrondings and friendly locals are just some of the things that aren't on offer here
23 Aug 2009 13:39
Had a couple of superb pints of Prospect in here that help to wash down a first class meal.
They still need to do something about the bar service though, its dreadfull.
23 Aug 2009 13:31
The Briton's Protection Hotel, Castlefield
Not sure what has happened here, on my last couple of vists the beer (both Robbies and Jennings tried) were average to say the least.
Despite this the pub was pretty busy, people drawn no doubt by its unspoilt charm and excellent bar service.
17 Jul 2009 20:37
Had a couple of first class pints of Prospect sat on the balcony here recently, bar service was spot on and the place has lots of atmosphere.
A must if you are in the area.
17 Jul 2009 20:33
Beer I had in here was sour, no amount of personal insults will change that.
Oh, and I think you will find its git...........
4 Apr 2009 18:01
Don't suppose they fancy coming back? Its never been the same since they left
13 Mar 2009 22:30
Good to see this place re-open again. Friendly landlady seems to be in the process of sprucing the place up, four hand pull beers on offer and the Jennings I sampled was very good, lets hope they make a go of it.
18 Feb 2009 20:57
Townie, your post may have had more clout if you had a basic grasp of grammar and spelling.
7 Feb 2009 01:37
People being served who are on the GMP Pubwatch scheme and then members of staff being assaulted by said people to such a degree they need 5 stiches.
A pretty poor show all round.
7 Feb 2009 01:32
Still stands head and shoulders above the rest in the area. Consistantly good real ales in a pleasent, idiot free atmosphere, having that rare quality of being ideal for a civilised evening out with the wife.
29 Jan 2009 15:04
ladbehindbar, thats good news about the real ale but what a shame you've felt the need to stoop to the "if you don't like it don't come in" mentality.
The pub may have changed, what a pity the management haven't.
26 Jan 2009 12:30
A sad end indeed, perhaps if the landlord had listened to the "real ale fundamentalists" instead of catering for the lowest common denominator it may still be a thriving pub.
17 Jan 2009 12:32
After reading the excellent reviews on this site and seeing all the Camra awards on the walls of this place I was very disappointed to be served with a sour pint of Allgates. Maybe standards are slipping?
12 Nov 2008 22:14
Now serving a very well kept pint of flat cap, no juke box or pool table and no yobs either. Just how a boozer should be.
25 Oct 2008 16:11
Looks like the present tenants have had enough as the pub is up for sale
16 Oct 2008 13:02
The comments below by Howcroft are most odd, the Howcroft is currently shut and has been for the last couple of days, there is a sign outside simply saying it is closed until further notice. Local rumours are the landlord has done a bunk, I hope this is not the case.
Either way, hardly the sign of a thriving pub.
13 Oct 2008 22:04
Very bizarre place, the clientele looked like extras from the Star wars bar scene and I strongly suspect there are still people in those cellars.
The Jennings bitter was exceptable but none of our party felt comfortable in here, we kept getting the feeling we would be dragged outside and be the subject to a sacrificial ritual on the carpark, possibly featuring a large bonfire, if you are into Hammer house of horror films then you will love this place!
I am willing to wager the pub dog has a cloven hoof, if the locals tell you to stay off those moors then I would strongly suggest you take their advice.
11 Oct 2008 20:30
Back on the up thank goodness. Lee's bitter has been on top form recently and the chav element has certainly dropped off, lets hope it continues.
5 Oct 2008 17:14
Now reopen.
I really wanted to hate this place but I have to say despite the wide screen Tv's constantly showing sports it looks very smart indeed, definantly the smartest pub in Horwich. Lets hope it stays that way and they keep the idiots out, dropping sales of alchopops would be a good start.
What a great pity then they haven't chosen to put any real ales on, they could have been on to a real winner here
27 Sep 2008 12:15
Still the best option in Horwich for a decent pint with decent people.
11 Sep 2008 21:46
looking a little tired these days, no real ales on and red wine served in a half pint glass, nice!!!!
30 Aug 2008 21:58
Fast becoming one of my favorites, very smart country pub with a good choice of real ales and low idiot count. The friendly bar staff are an added bonus.
26 Aug 2008 20:56
The Duke of Wellington, Lostock
Pretty busy on my vist (a friday eve) and seemed to be successfully catering for all age groups, tastefull re-fit has certainly helped here.
Ales on offer were Tetley cask and Wells Bombardier, both excellent.
16 Aug 2008 13:37
The Sweet Green Tavern, Bolton
Both myself and a friend sent a drink back in here recently, the landlord changed my friends without question but tasted mine and told me there was nothing wrong with it and it wasn't his fault if I didn't like the taste. They were both the same brew bought and returned at the same time!!!
He then spent the rest of our time in there continuously walking past our table glaring at us.
If you want a sour pint served by an equally sour landlord then this is the pub for you!
15 Aug 2008 13:25
Rumoured to have been bought out by a major pub chain and down for a much needed overhall.
Unfortunantley if the Rumours are to be believed that involves a football themed re-fit and large screen Tv's throughout.
Correct me if I'm wrong but wasn't that idea tried and the Queens a few years ago with disastrous results? It became a Mecca for every dickhead for miles around.
Here's a whacky idea, why not re-fit it in the theme of a nice pub were you could take your wife for a pleasent drink surrounded by pleasent people?
That would be a real novelty in Horwich
15 Aug 2008 13:15
Another one of Horwich's failing pubs, very quiet most nights of the week including fridays which used to be very busy indeed.
Despite previous comments about the beer bieng good the only real ale on is Holts as the landlord claims there is "no call for it" and seems happy to concentrate on selling vastly overpriced lagers to the handfull of regulars that have not moved on to new and much cheaper pastures.
15 Aug 2008 12:55
Was not impressed with the service in this pub, two young members of staff on who both ignored paying customers to finish personal conversations with friends.
won't be bothering with this place again, I know were I'm not wanted!
8 Aug 2008 13:03
Not hosting this years beer festival is the final nail in this pubs coffin, can't be long now before its shut and advertised for "re-development".
A shame but its hard to see how the Howcroft could ever recover
8 Aug 2008 12:57
A pity the welcome in here isn't as warm as the beer!
They really need to turn the coolers up when the weather is hot, both the beer and lager were far to warm last night.
28 Jul 2008 10:56
Funny it was completley empty last night at 10.45pm although in total fairness people may have been outside in the rear "beer garden".
Things are definantly better since Darren has taken more of an active role, watching him camp it up on the Monday night quiz is a scream but I still have my doubts about the quality of the beer, its variable at best.
On the up but still a fair way to go.
25 Jul 2008 14:27
Friday and Saturday nights its full of other peoples husbands with other peoples wifes.
I don't know why they don't just have a large glass bowl near the door for everyone to chuck their car keys in and be done with it!
18 Jul 2008 13:12
Currently closed which I would imagine is a massive relief to the local residence, i wonder who the next mug is going to be who thinks they can turn this place around?
18 Jul 2008 13:09
Yob clientele and could not care less managment have ensured this pub is shut yet again.
18 Jul 2008 13:07
Had some of the worst bar service encountered in a long time here over the weekend, it wasn't that busy either. If had not been here before I would have walked out as the couple stood next to me did, at one point the bar was completely unattended. The lady (who was clearly in a managerial position) sat the bar eating her lunch and ignoring the situation did not help either.....
Once finally served the Prospect bitter was superb and we went through to the eating area to have possiblly the best steak pudding I've ever tasted, the service here was excellent but the way we were treated at the main bar did slightly spoil the evening
28 May 2008 13:30
Large, souless pub that has the appearance of being built in the late 60's or early 70's. Seems to have a strong local following but was very quiet on my vist and the bitter tasted like vinegar.
25 May 2008 17:57
Looks like I spoke too soon, had a distinctly sub-standard pint in here last night. I hope its not a sign of things to come....
25 May 2008 17:44
I really like this pub, excellent range of beers and nice, old world surroundings. The beers I've tried in here have been very good, I'm not doubting what the other posters have said but I take as I find and I've not had a bad pint in here yet.
21 May 2008 01:46
You really need to get your facts straight before you post otherwise your comments look uninformed and foolish. The Bolwer was not the only pub that served these two, they also bought a drink in the Brown cow.
As for bickering, if you didn't want to start any why did you post on the Bowling greens thread at all with your inaccurate comments?
21 May 2008 01:39
Sadly back to being a Yobs paradise after yet another change of landlord
8 May 2008 21:49
Now re-open but does anyone really care? If the hoards of drunken chavs don't put you off then the rent a thug doormen will.
28 Apr 2008 12:54
Seems to be suffering the same way as many Horwich pubs at the moment by being over-run with yobs at the weekend who know they can get a late drink.
The front window has been boarded up for over a week now and lends a certain an air of class to the place.
Every picture tells a story as they say..........
28 Apr 2008 12:51
Currently the best pub in Adlington.The bingo on Wed evenings is not to my taste and I would avoid going in when its on but it certainly draws the punters in on what would otherwise be a quiet night.
Beer is excellent and they keep a very nice pint of dark mild which seems to be unusual these days.
28 Apr 2008 12:45
Absolute dump frequented by local low-life, if it wasn't for the bacteria in here this place would have no culture at all.
20 Apr 2008 20:08
Cracking pint of Jennings (if a little expensive) served by friendly, attractive staff. A pity the place seemed so empty and soul-less, it had the potential to be much better than this.....
19 Apr 2008 17:58
Traditional country pub in a superb location on High Moor. Attractive,friendly uniformed staff and great beer. Well worth a vist.
16 Apr 2008 19:36
I've transfered my affections from the sadly declining Howcroft to here. I've always found the beer to be first class, the staff friendly and attentive and the atmosphere pleasant, always important in a town center pub.
15 Apr 2008 18:37
I've also had a abusive PM from Twiga and if I receive any more I will be putting them up on this thread for all to see the kind of person who drinks in this pub...........
14 Apr 2008 12:56
Looks very smart after the re-furb. The waiter/waitress service, limited menu and quality of the food all certainly give the impression of home cooked fayre.
Some very nice real ales as well, worth a vist if you are looking for something a cut above the usual pub grub
6 Apr 2008 19:11
Nice to the the standards being kept up, probally the best pub in Horwich at the moment.
31 Mar 2008 13:59
The Brinsop Country Inn, Westhoughton
Kitykat, you are clearly the same Diane that posted anon previously but signed it Diane Kay, a member of staff here. Your inappropriate use of capitals and "Mr Paul Young" gives you away.
This pub has plunged to new depths, I fully expect more comments from one time posters defending this miserable place.
31 Mar 2008 13:56
Lovely roaring real fire here on friday night, shame it was a customers car on the carpark.
23 Mar 2008 10:13
Smart pub, excellent pint of Jennings and service with a smile.
What more could you ask for?
3 Mar 2008 12:38
The Sweet Green Tavern, Bolton
A proper boozer!! Excellent range of well kept real ales served by friendly staff in a smart, clean pub. The Bank Top I sampled was first class.
9/10 from me!
23 Feb 2008 13:39
Just recieved this in a Pm from the landlord
boltonbloke you seem to be very negative about pubs in Bolton. not one good comment in ages. karaoke on a saturday night the pub trade is hard enough now to make money with the added tax and cheap beer in supermarkets so us landlords will offer differet nights to make money - the karaoke has been very popular so will continue at The Howcroft Inn!
You (the landlord) seem to have missed the point of the Howcroft, its a drinking mans pub and should not need gimicks, it never did before you took over and the beer was decent........
16 Feb 2008 02:12
Pretentions above its station. Prices boarder on ass rape and everything arrives at the table in microwaved speed, at least you barely get time to look around at the damp patches on the ceiling and emulsioned over wall paper from the days when it was the Bull.......
My sauce tasted like it had come out of a packet and the staff have been spotted at the cash and carry buying in their "home made" desserts.
Still, a good place to show off your Range Rover and Rolex but your really just letting people know that money doesn't buy good taste.
13 Feb 2008 13:15
The Brinsop Country Inn, Westhoughton
I've just recieved this from morganrossmr
"Bolton bloke you seem very eager to give the Brinsop at bad rating, yoour profile is hidden. You refer to a write up on the food which is over 8 years old. You must be jealous in some way."
Seems pretty desperate, doesn't it?
6 Feb 2008 00:16
Now advertising karaoke every Saturday night, Has the landlord lost his marbels?
26 Jan 2008 16:38
Don't know whats happening to this pub but its gone down hill of late, the Lee's bitter is terrible and goes flat virtually the moment its poured.
Its useless complaining either because they just tell you there is nothing wrong with it and refuse to change it.
This pub had gone from a 9/10 to a 2/10 for me, a pity because it was the only decent pub in Horwich.
18 Jan 2008 13:41
A vast improvement but they still need to sort the chav problem out.
Still, definantly a step in the right direction.........
7 Jan 2008 14:30
The Brinsop Country Inn, Westhoughton
I can't be the only person thats noticed everyone who has posted a positive comment about this place recently has only posted about this place and no other pub...........
I stand by my original comments, this is a terrible pub. Go and judge for yourself but don't say you weren't warned!!!!!
4 Jan 2008 00:43
Refused me the use of a phone to call a garage after my car broke down outside. Used to visit this pub fairly often but with customer service like that they can shove it, I've not stepped foot in it since!!!!!
11 Dec 2007 15:31
Currently shut but rumoured to be under new ownership, I certainly hope so.
3 Dec 2007 01:28
Currently shut but rumoured to be under new ownership, I certainly hope so.
3 Dec 2007 01:26
Can't comment on the Landlord as we didn't meet him but this is a pleasant pub in country surroundings right by the canal bank.
Menu a little limited and a tad pricey but I'd like to think its because its not the standard microwaved brewers fayre.
Some excellent real ales on tap, its just a pity you'll need to take the car!!!!!
3 Dec 2007 01:23
If you are over 50 and wear Marks&Spencer jumpers you will love it!!
15 Oct 2007 13:19
In the proccess of being demolished which can only be an improvement.
18 Sep 2007 12:44
I was bitterly disappointed to see this pub has re-opened after the recent forced closure
28 Jun 2007 17:13
If the smoking shelter is as well made as the TV bracket in the tap room (where Gaffer tape and electrical flex feature heavily) then it will be spectacular!
21 Jun 2007 15:55
Poor quality Brewers fayre served in grubby surroundings. We visited around 12pm and the carpet was a disgrace, clearly not vacumed from the night before. Dead insects lay on the window sills (Perhaps they'd eaten the food here!) along with weeks worth of dust. Imagine what its like in the kitchen!! Staff ok but its hard to be enthusiastic when faced with an imopossible situation
3 Jun 2007 20:47
A correction to my earier post, the food had been stopped temporarily but its still a poor, over priced pint. The regulars seem to be agreement as most are now drinking in the Old Original or the Bowling Green!!
25 Apr 2007 16:20
Called in here on a Friday night and the karaoke was certainly attracting the yob element. Tables were dirty and hadn't been cleared from ealier meals, the pub is looking pretty scuffy these days and it seems the staff have just given up. No real ales served, its hard to think of a reason to visit.
25 Apr 2007 16:15
First class freshly cooked food served by friendly attentive staff, not to be confused with the standard microwaved pub grub. Decent childrens menu and an excellent range of drinks on offer in pleasant surroundings. Maybe a tad pricey but we left feeling it was worth every penny and we will return soon!
16 Apr 2007 13:13
Food no longer served (again!) and �2.20 for a pint of poor John Smiths, they have to be kidding!
12 Apr 2007 13:07
I think the last poster must be getting confused with another pub! Called in on Saturday night around 10pm, the DJ was playing chart "toons" to a packed pub of four people but the first thing that hits you is the horrible smell when you walk through the door. I gave the drinks a miss!
12 Apr 2007 13:05
The worst pub in Horwich? very likely. Packed on a friday and saturday night with Elizibeth Duke adorned teenage girls with the obligatory tramp stamp tattoos screaming "leave it" and "he's not worth it" to their neanderthal boyfriends who will start a fight with anyone in the pub to prove to all around that they are not gay and don't read books.
Don't miss the friday night special of a "Bokkel" and a beating, all for �2.50.
11 Jan 2007 12:44
The Hope and Anchor Inn, Bolton
A pokey dive of a pub were all the regulars stare at you when you walk in, I swear I could hear dueling banjos playing in the background.
25 Nov 2006 18:44
No cask beer at all last night and out of the two keg beers only one was available, no wonder the pub was empty.
24 Nov 2006 15:11
The Rosehill Tavern, Westhoughton
Bit of a nice suprise this one, known localy as "the bug" and looks a bit rough and ready on the outside but decent decor,nice seating areas, good real ales and plenty of staff serving when I visited. A proper traditional pub.
27 Aug 2006 13:18
Very smart little pub with some good real ales, the Blacksheep sampled was excellent. The Friday night karaoke seemed to be attracting a yob element and one drunkard dropped his pint on the floor while we were there while another sang a tune littered with expletives. It would be better if they dropped the "entertainment" and concentrated on attracting couples and real ale drinkers which it could easly do.
12 Aug 2006 19:38
The pub looks much better now all the hidious white paint has been removed from the outside but little has changed inside, it still has the same lazy halfwitted staff and yob clientele
17 Jul 2006 13:31
Had an excellent pint of Bombardier in here on Saturday night and was planning to stay for a few more until I saw a member of staff refill an empty used glass.
16 Jul 2006 12:53
Closed again last night(Saturday)on one of Horwich's busiest evenings so far this year, ever other pub in the town was packed out. Not for the first time recently the Landlady and her friends were to be found drinking in the Old Original Bay Horse, I think I'll follow her lead from now on and do the same...
2 Jul 2006 14:11
Around 10 abusive drunken early teenagers on the carpark last night throwing their cans and bottles around. The landlord was reluctant to deal with the matter and as our nominated driver was worried about his car we were forced to leave early. A bad show that has left us in no huury to return.
1 Jul 2006 18:22
What a dump this pub has become, this used to be one of the best pubs in Horwich when Daphnie was the landlady, if you used the f word out loud you were told to shut up or leave. Nothing as trivial now though, fights on the hour every hour it seems. Over the last year every one of the beautiful, original stained windows has been put through by yobs barely old enough to drink, the police are never away unless they are at the Albert or Queens. Have a drink in here and you will be convinced you are on the set of channel 4's Shameless.
19 Apr 2006 21:47
A great, well kept pub but the recent price increases make it one of the most expensive in Horwich. Marvel at the tempermental staff, decidedly dodgy DIY, the often "tired and emotional" landlord and landlady and the two resident sophisticates in the main room who eff and blind their way throughout the evening.
11 Apr 2006 21:37
A hidden gem of a pub with real old world charm retaining many of its original fixtures and fittings. Excellent real ales served by friendly efficent staff, a must if you are in the Bolton area!
11 Apr 2006 21:26
Rumours are rife that its set to become an Italian restraunt,something needs doing with it as its looking pretty scruffy these days. Hard to think of a reason to go in really.
30 Mar 2006 21:51
Recently refitted by the friendly new tennants to a high standard.
30 Mar 2006 21:47
Surprisingly good beer for around �1.30 a pint, the staff have been there for years and normaly ensure you won't be waiting long to be served.
29 Mar 2006 21:24
My last vist to this pub was not a success, after waiting around five minutes for a member of staff to finish her conversation with her friend I was begrudgingly served a pint of sour bitter. My request to have it changed was greeted with much tut-ing and slamming about. Its replacement was no better so I asked for a different drink, she looked at me as though she had just caught me having sex with her mother but she duly poured me another pint but insisted on charging me the difference. I won't return in a hurry.
29 Mar 2006 21:15
Was a great pub in the days of Don and Eve but since its football themed re-fit it has become a Mecca for work shy yobs and "did you spill my pint" merchants.
27 Mar 2006 20:56
Best avoided unless you like a good fight. Was refused a late license in the recent shake-up due to constant problems with noise and violence. Cast iron proof, if it were needed, that Darwin was right.
27 Mar 2006 20:50
The Prince Of Wales, Chorley
Thought i would give this another go but sad to say nothing has changed.
First impressions where very bad when I could not get through the front door as two dogs where at each others throats fighting in the pub with their owners struggling to regain control.
On approaching the bar I was shocked to see a dog bowl on it, next to the sandwiches for sale. I decided not to have a drink as I was not impressed with the obvious hygiene breaches and did not fancy my pint placed next to a bowl covered in dog saliva.
I will be calling Chorley enviromental health tomorrow.
8 Jun 2014 20:47