Sited at the prominent junction of Kingsway and Manchester Road, this is a large roadhouse that dates from between the wars. Built of red stone and contrasting white brick, it is many-faceted with large bay windows at the corners adding visual impact. Inside the large island bar serves a large lounge with raised seating area (this used to act as a stage area during Hydes' ownership era), this is flanked by a comfy lounge on the Manchester Road side, and a more open lounge, that used to be the vault on the Kingsway side. Behind the bar is a more secluded drinking and dining area. All is carpeted, with half-height panelling on most of the walls. The interesting photos of the interior of yesteryear from the Hydes' period have been replaced by pictures and text relating to Daniel Adamson and the Ship Canal Co. Plus, there is imagery detailing the very high-frequency bus service 42 that terminates at the nearby Parrswood leisure complex.
Historic Interest
July 12th 2011 saw the re-opening of this former Hydes pub, the Gateway as a JD Wetherspoon outlet. Externally, and for that matter internally, the structure was little changed. A kitchen was created off the former vault area, whilst access to the upstairs function rooms is now via a locked door; the toilets were updated too. Outside, the pergola arrangement on the Kingsway side was updated and improved to include lighting.
This Pub serves 5 changing beers (guest beers often sourced from Greater Manchester or Cheshire micro brewers) and 3 regular beers.
Gateway, Didsbury
Source: National