Ye Olde Man And Scythe
6-8 Churchgate, Bolton BL1 1HL
TEL: 01204 559060
This was first mentioned in a market charter in 1251 though all that is left from that era is the vaulted cellars and some of the timber framing as the pub was rebuilt in 1636. One of its claims to fame is that James Stanley, the 7th Earl of Derby, is said to have spent the night there prior to his execution in the square outside in 1651. (see the photo below). Stanley fought in the English Civil War for the Royalist (losing) side. He continued to give military support to the son of Charles I, who fought on for a while after his father's execution, but was eventually captured and convicted of treason. He was executed in Bolton because of his involvement in the Bolton Massacre of 1644.
Like all ancient pubs Ye Olde Man And Scythe is haunted by a ghost or three. In fact, as many as 53 spirits are said to have haunted it. They include victims of the Bolton Massacre, James Stanley himself, both outside in the square, where he appears headless, and in the pub cellar. There is also a crying barmaid, a phantom dog, and a mischievous woman called Jenny who pulls in women's clothes. In 2014 the pub manager came downstairs one morning to find glass smashed in the bar. There was no sign of a break in but when he checked the CCTV there was a ghostly image on the footage.
Ambience - 3
Decor - 4
As you'd expect of an old pub. lots of dark timber beams, a slightly uneven stone floor and a black and cream colour scheme. Comfortable padded seats and benches. Piped music but not loud enough to be intrusive.
Service - 3
Friendly
Real ales - 3
Features - 4
dog friendly
TV screen
Sells its own T shirts
In a glass fronted cupboard in one of the side rooms it has the chair in which James Stanley sat immediately before his execution.
Toilets - 4
Score 21 out of 30
Churchgate
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The Churchgate
11-13 Churchgate, Bolton BL1 1HU
TEL: 07754 667992
The building dates from 1772 and was recorded as a pub called The Bear's Paw in 1778. It was renamed The Crown And Thistle in 1779 and then given its current name in 1806. It was recorded as being a Tetley pub called The Golden Lion in 1982. Its name was changed back again at an unknown date. It was completely refurbed in 2017 and now has a contemporary interior, with two sections. There is a pool table and the entrance to a partly covered small beer garden at the back.
Ambience - 1
rough and rowdy, loud piped music
Decor - 3
Newish in pale browns. Comfortable padded seating.
Service - 4
fast and friendly
real ales - none
features - 3
Many TV screens
pool table
serves food
toilets - 4
Perfect except short on handwash
Score 15 out of 30
