Airport, Wythenshawe

This is a unique pub and is both blessed and cursed by its location. Car parking is very limited and very expensive. The pub's management strongly advise their patrons to arrive by bus, tram or train if at all possible. This large pub at the end of Manchester Airport's main runway re-opened in late January 2015 after a massive four month refurbishment which transformed the place into a pub where the emphasis is on food. The scale of this refurbishment was something that had never been seen before in the Robinsons estate and marked a return for the brewery to managed houses. The interior was completely altered and now has a large single room with a long bar on the left side (as you enter), with five handpumps, albeit not necessarily selling five different beers. A choice of bottled beers is also available and includes Old Tom. Decor features an aeronautical theme mixed with British colonial retro style; there are 'Spitfire arm chairs' and booth seating in circular jet engine style, vintage propeller fittings, flying ducks dressed in mini pilot outfits and blueprints of old aeroplanes. The interior furnishings include vintage designer wallpapers and fabrics as well as more modern features such as spotlights and glazed screens to divide up the large space. However whilst the emphasis is on food, there are no problems in just having a drink here and the pub is family friendly. The outside back patio terrace feature tables and a variety of chairs whilst the extensive garden features a number of tables and bench seating as well as a children's slide and climbing frame. And with aircraft passing extremely close by at the end of the runway, this will continue to be a very popular spot for people of all ages to watch the world go by - literally! However, please be aware that CAR PARKING CHARGES APPLY here - charges are £2 for one hour, £3.70 for two hours, and go rapidly upwards to £10.70 for a maximum stay of six hours (correct as of May 2024). Even blue badge holders are required to pay. NO REFUND is given even if you make a purchase at the bar. The car park is managed by Smart Parking Ltd. You must pay on arrival, using the machines at the main entrance (cash, credit cards and contactless debit cards accepted), or the RingGo app. NB the car parking often gets completely full on summer evenings, and at weekends. Entrance is managed on a one in, one out basis but honestly, get here by bike, bus, tram, train or Shanks' pony if you possibly can, it's much less stress.