It was once famous for its wool and cotton spinning during the Industrial Revolution, but it now has a trendy feel with investment in bars and restaurants
A quaint village in Greater Manchester, nestled between the South Pennines and the Peak District, has become a hotspot for pub-goers due to its emerging hipster vibe.
Uppermill, once part of the West Riding of Yorkshire, is now firmly rooted in the civil parish of Saddleworth within the borough of Oldham.
The village made its mark during the Industrial Revolution with wool and cotton spinning. However, it now boasts a distinctly modern feel, thanks to recent investments that have brought trendy bars and eateries to its high street.
On a sunny day, the main street buzzes with visitors drawn to its cool pubs, restaurants, bars, and cafes. And the once prevalent charity shops seem to have dwindled.
Uppermill has experienced a property boom, and the influx of investment is evident, with few ‘To Let’ signs or obvious signs of dereliction, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Newcomers are lured by the stunning scenery, which includes a river, a canal, and breathtaking landscapes, particularly around Dovestones, where there’s a sailing club and a circular walk around a vast reservoir. Dovestones itself feels like a mini Lake District and can get busy at weekends.
For those looking for a drink or even a small pub/bar crawl, there’s a great selection, from traditional pubs to chic cafes serving food alongside your drinks.
All of the following are located on or near High Street, the village’s main thoroughfare.
The Commie
No, not Karl Marx’s old haunt, but The Commercial, otherwise known as The Commie. According to Camra (Campaign for Real Ale), it’s a family-friendly spot that welcomes a diverse crowd ranging from students to pensioners.
Featuring hand-pulled beers and outdoor seating perfect for people-watching, the pub also ups the antics with sporting events broadcasted on a giant screen.
Hare and Hounds
Nestled on the High Street, this 18th-century inn is a prime location for catching football, rugby, and the like. Renowned for its congenial staff and laid-back vibe, Hare and Hounds regularly entertains its guests with live singers and entertainers.
One chuffed patron gave the Hare and Hounds a top rating of 5/5, noting: “Had a wander into Uppermill for first time, busy pub, nice selection of beers, warm pork crackling, didn’t eat here but heard good things, will be back to rate the Sunday lunch at some point.”
Caffe Grande Abaco
Labelled a “gem of a restaurant/cafe” by a recent reviewer, Abaco operates as a multifaceted venue serving as a coffee shop, wine bar, and deli. Its al fresco seating is a popular haunt when the sun shines, drawing in a bustling crowd of drinkers and diners daily from 7.30am.
The Waggon Inn
Oozing charm with its 19th-century coaching inn origins, The Waggon Inn presents patrons with a snug lounge, vivacious bar, and a dedicated dining area, having undergone a revamp back in 2014.
While a TripAdvisor critique hailed the culinary offerings, they did prompt future visitors that splurging might be on the cards when dining here.
Another reviewer was brief but sweet, commending: “Great food and ambience.”
Albion Tap
Albion Tap, a stylish bar that was once a bookshop and bottle shop, offers cask and keg ales, a selection of gins and vodkas, as well as foreign bottles and cans. This popular bar is located on the High Street.
Granby Arms
The Granby Arms is particularly popular with locals, according to Camra, and welcomes dogs onto the premises. A recent reviewer described the Granby Arms as a ‘proper’ pub and friendly. Another said it was ‘cosy’ with a good choice of beers. The Granby Arms is on the High Street.
Uppermill Conservative Club
The Club is housed in an old manor house and is a popular watering hole. Non-members are welcome, according to Camra. There is karaoke on Friday and Saturday, according to one recent review. Described as friendly and with value for money drinks.
No. Thirty
No. Thirty is a wine bar and coffee house, located at 30 High Street in the heart of Uppermill.
Opened earlier this year, it describes itself as a Mediterranean/Spanish-themed bar offering drinks and nibbles. Known for its cosy vibe, it’s dog-friendly and has a terrace for when the weather is fine.
