‘The squirrels are always stealing the dog treats outside!’
The March Hare in Cheadle Hulme is our Pub of the Week(Image: Vintage Inns)
As far as pubs go, the March Hare in Cheadle Hulme is considered to be a relatively new kid on the block – but you wouldn’t guess it from its rustic charm and cosy aesthetic.
First built in 1987, the pub, situated at the end of Mill Lane, was built to replicate an old sawmill – serving as a nod to the Stockport suburb’s name, which is derived from the Celtic word ‘Cedde’ for wood. It also, interestingly, features a water wheel too.
The pub, which has been led by general manager Ella Parry for a year now, also recently underwent an extensive refurbishment which introduced a bright and contemporary new look to surroundings.
Considered to be an ideal spot for those looking for a country pub – equipped with a log fire for those colder and darker nights – its expansive food menu also goes down a treat, with the likes of Moroccan-spiced chicken and tender lamb rump skewers, as well as katsu chicken rice bowls and chicken parmigiana.
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The March Hare, which offers picturesque views of the Micker Brook, features many nods to its countryside surroundings throughout(Image: Vintage Inns)
The March Hare also sells a honey and truffle baked camembert sharer, as well as a range of ‘expertly aged’ steaks, stone-baked pizzas, salads, and classic pub dishes like a Puy lentil cottage pie and smoked haddock fishcakes, and, of course, an impressive Sunday roast offering.
In terms of drinks, there’s a range of hand-picked cask ales and fine wines, as well as cocktails, British gin, spritzes and hot drinks.
Led by Vintage Inns, the venue is well-praised online with a heap of positive reviews. One recent customer described the pub as ‘quintessentially British with cute interesting decor’, whilst another hailed it as ‘a secret little gem’ of a place.
The March Hare is our Pub of the Week, so we reached out to general manager Ella to find out more about what makes the venue so special and what are their best-sellers.
Be sure to let us know if you think you’ve got a pub that you think is worthy of the Pub of the Week spotlight in the future.
Ella Parry is the General Manager of the March Hare pub in Cheadle Hulme(Image: Vintage Inns)Why did you get into the pub industry in the first place?
Like a lot of people, it started as a part-time job in college. It was never meant to be a career, but I’ve never looked back.
I started out washing dishes and peeling potatoes at the weekend and worked my way to full time work in front-of-house. I spent some time working in the events industry but missed chatting to guests so made the move back into pubs eight years ago and haven’t regretted it since.
What is the significance behind the pub’s history?
The pub was originally known as The Old Mill and was opened in 1987, with the building designed to look like an old sawmill.
The pub is known for its ‘cosy cottage’ vibes(Image: Vintage Inns)What’s your best-selling drink?
That would have to be a tie between our draught beers and selection of wines.
When we reopened after the refurbishment, we introduced Asahi and it has just been flying out, alongside our New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.
What’s an unusual thing that’s happened at the pub?
Our most random guests recently are the squirrels and birds that have taken to coming in the front door to steal the dog treats!
It’s not unusual, but one unique thing we are known for is the fantastic views of the Micker Brook from our beer gardens and patio area. People always comment on it, and it’s the perfect backdrop for a sunny day or after a country walk.
Have there been any famous or notable guests over the years?
The pub building was designed to look like an old sawmill(Image: Vintage Inns)
Unfortunately not yet – but there’s always time!
What is it about your local community that you love?
Everyone is so friendly, helpful and always up for a chat!
Have there been any spooky or haunted encounters?
Most of the creepy noises we experience come from the wildlife around the pub!
The March Hare has an extensive drinks selection, spanning across craft ales, gins, wines and more(Image: Vintage Inns)How can people support their local pub?
Come down and visit us!
It might be popping in for a quick drink while out for a walk, lunch with friends or celebrating a special occasion with your family, but it’s safe to say we’ve got something for everyone and every occasion.
The March Hare is on 12 Mill Lane, Cheadle Hulme, Cheadle, SK8 5PG.
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