The Bull’s Head in Sale – between Altrincham and Manchester – won the hearts of Christine and James Hartley early in 2009. “We were really sad to see such a noble building in such a neglected state.” Said Christine. “So we rolled up our sleeves and got stuck into putting the pride back into the Bull.” This was a huge project to take on especially when all around was doom and gloom for the future of pubs.
But nothing could sway Christine and James who had fallen in love with Grade 2 listed building that was built in 1879. They systematically set about transforming the pub back to its former glory by investing lots of time and money to the project. “We have made sure to leave some of the original features like the skylight which is illuminated at night, and the clock behind the bar. The exterior has also had a major face lift and today it once again sits majestically on the junction of Washway Road/Cross Street on the main A56 trunk road.
Bringing the fabric of the building back to life was only half the challenge; they then had to gain the support of locals.
Home cooked food like ‘Beef Cobbler’ and a hearty Sunday roast and the reintroduction of cask ales that have been absent for a long time enticed the patronage back in. Beers like Black Sheep and Copper Dragon are doing well and Christine and James are constantly listening to their customers to ensure they stock the beverage their customers enjoy most.
“The most important thing is making this a pub a focus for the whole community.” Says James
Today the Bull’s Head has come alive again and is patronised by shoppers in the morning, office workers at lunch time and locals relaxing in the evening.
Christine and James have finally finished the refurbishment with a function room downstairs which is proving very popular for parties and live music Friday and Saturday nights.
Then in December 2009 the Bull’s Head won the coveted Trafford & Hulme CAMRA ‘Winter Pub of the Season’ Award. It’s magic has finally worked and the crown is firmly back on the bull’s head.