THE Eagle & Child on its lofty perch above Ramsbottom is one establishment that never rests on its laurels.
After winning Food Pub of the Year for the second time at the 2016 Manchester Food and Drink Awards, owner Glen Duckett promptly hired Alex Shaw, Chef of the Year in 2015 while at Volta.
In spring this year after a major refurb and temporary relocation to a Bolton pop-up, the hilltop hostelry re-emerged as a gastropub with quirky, luxurious rooms we loved on our April visit.
The dining room extended to take advantage of panoramic views now seemed the perfect setting for Shaw’s superb food (stand-out the Lancashire hogget, below).
Obviously we are not The Eagle’s only admirers. It has been named 2017 Great British Pub Of The Year at awards organised by trade bible the Morning Advertiser.
The ‘stunning’ pub was heralded for ‘the views, the food, the events, the atmosphere, the beers and the staff’ by Ifeoma Dozie of John Smiths, the category sponsor.
Food and fit-out aside, what sealed the deal was the pub’s social conscience. Since taking over the pub six years ago, landlord Glen has given over 100 disadvantage youngsters opportunities to build skills and gain valuable work experience. There is a similar, ethical, sustainable ethos to all Glen's projects, including the pub garden and raised beds, below.
“The Eagle and Child is a great example of what can be achieved in the modern pub trade,” said Morning Advertiser editor Ed Bedington. “This is not only a first rate operation, with a great food and drink offer in stylish surroundings, this is a pub that is truly giving back to the community.”
Eagle & Child, Whalley Rd, Ramsbottom, Bury BL0 0DL. 01706 557181. Room rates start at £75 and rise to £100 at weekends; suites with juliette balconies and views from £100 to £150.
