For our Pub of the Week, we’re heading on over to Marple Bridge
07:02, 21 Jun 2026Updated 07:28, 21 Jun 2026
The newly-reopened Midland pub, in Marple Bridge, is our Pub of the Week(Image: Premium Country Pub Collection)
One of Stockport’s most cherished pubs has just recently reopened with a whole new identity following a major four-week transformation.
The Midland, on Brabyns Brow in Marple Bridge, has been ‘thoughtfully reimagined’ with its bright and lively revamp which brings its restored bar – complete with cocktail station – and its outdoor terrace area back to life.
Led by manager Gary Smythe for over a year and a half now, the pub has also received a brand new menu described as a celebration of the best of British pub grub, with the likes of Pan-Roasted Lamb Rump, Asparagus & Squash Orzo, and Tarragon-Battered Line-Caught Haddock with thick-cut chips all up for ordering.
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There’s also freshly-chargrilled steaks – including the 7oz Fillet and 10oz Ribeye steak – which are all cooked to perfection and served with rustic thick cut chips, caramelised Roscoff onion, sautéed mushrooms, and parsley butter. Desserts include the Timperley Rhubarb & Apple Crumble, a classic Tiramisu, and a home-baked chocolate brownie.
The venue, a part of the Premium Country Pub group, is situated on the banks of the River Goyt meaning its outdoor terrace area is a perfect little suntrap with picturesque views. Due to its location near the Peak Forest Canal, Brabyns Park, and Mellor Moor, the pub is also a popular spot for hikers and dogwalkers.
‘There is a large community spirit in Marple Bridge'(Image: Premium Country Pub Collection)
So, it goes without saying that The Midland is the latest to take our Pub of the Week title and we’ve spoken to Gary about what it’s like running this well-known venue, to discover more about its railway roots, and to find out why it was once visited by Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer.
How did you get into the pub industry in the first place?
I started as a kitchen porter in the industry when I was 16 and worked my way up to being a Head Chef working in Michelin-rated restaurants. I then became a manager making the move to front-of-house in my 30’s. I have ran various styles of pubs and was very happy with my move to The Midland 18 months ago.
What is the significance behind the pub’s history and name?
The Midland was built in approximately 1870 as a hotel originally to house the railway line workers when the track was being laid. Once the track was finished it became the pub it is now.
Marple Bridge is known as The Gateway to The Peak District and the pub is a good starting point for numerous popular walks in the area.
The Midland pub in Marple Bridge has reopened following a major four-week renovation(Image: Premium Country Pub Collection)
What’s your best-selling drink?
We have a large array of drinks on offer. We stock nine draught products, with the best-selling being Peroni.
From our well-balanced wine list, our New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is our most popular white wine choice which pairs well with our fish dishes on the menu. The house Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina is our best selling red wine and is an excellent choice to accompany our Steaks and Sunday Roast Beef.
From our cocktail list, the Hugo Spritz is a very popular choice with a blend of Saint Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Prosecco, Mint & Soda. A perfect drink on a summer’s day sitting on our patio overlooking the river.
What’s an unusual thing that’s happened at the pub?
Every day is different in so many ways in this industry that the unusual becomes the norm. You never know what will happen next and we are always prepared for every eventuality.
The pub’s outdoor area overlooks the River Goyt(Image: Premium Country Pub Collection)
Have there been any famous
We once hosted the film crew and presenters from Location, Location, Location when they were filming in Marple.
Ian Brown from The Stone Roses paid us a visit many years ago, I just wish I was at the pub at this time to have met him as he is a bit of a hero of mine!
What is it about your local community that you love?
There is a large community spirit in Marple Bridge and twice a year the road through the village is closed off for a summer party and a family-friendly Christmas market.
The pub has been described as one of Stockport’s most cherished with its roots dating back to 1870(Image: Premium Country Pub Collection)
Have there been any haunted encounters or folk tales involving the pub?
There has been talk of a spirit being present in one of our upstairs stock rooms – this is something I have not witnessed but the room can become very cold all of a sudden, even in the summer time.
On a quiet night, it has been reported that you can hear horse hooves running through the car park, possibly a throwback from the time the pub was a coaching house.
How can people support their local pub?
Our pub is a suitable meeting place for all sorts of clubs and institutes from coffee mornings to evening meetings. We have a semi private room that can accommodate up to 12 guests overlooking the River Goyt.
There is always a warm welcome awaiting everyone that wants to join us, we open at 11am for coffee and drinks and our menu is available from 12pm every day.
The Midland is on 26 Brabyns Brow, Marple Bridge, Stockport SK6 5DT. Follow on Facebook.