The Castle pub in Macclesfield, a Grade II listed building that has been an ale house for over 300 years, has been named one of the best pubs in the UK by The Telegraph. The historic pub, located on a steep cobbled lane in the Castle Quarter, is one of eight Cheshire establishments featured in the publication's 2026 guide to the 650 Best Pubs in the UK.
A Historic Gem with a Beatles Connection
The Castle, dating back to 1721, is a rare example of a timeless, old-fashioned town pub. It has been identified by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) as having a nationally important historic pub interior. The building started as late 18th-century cottages, with whitened brick walls. Inside, visitors find a warren of cozy rooms and seating nooks, including the Tap Room, Parlour, and a fire-lit nook. The dining area was added in the 19th century, and a covered suntrap terrace awaits up the steps.
The pub has a surprising Beatles connection: in 1963, the Fab Four popped in for a pint after playing a gig at the town's Club El Rio on Queen Victoria Street. A customer has a photo of the foursome enjoying a drink there. Additionally, a homage to Joy Division's Ian Curtis is displayed at the back of the pub with framed pictures and memorabilia.
Award-Winning Renovation and Beer Selection
Under the stewardship of Rebecca Prunty and following a refurbishment by the building's owners in 2021, The Castle has won numerous awards. Its extensive makeover earned the CAMRA Historic England Conservation Award. The pub, an independently run freehouse, celebrates 'all things small' and offers an extensive selection of beers. Local ales regularly change, with a commitment to independent local and regional breweries. Four continuously changing cask beers are always available, and some keg beers use membrane keg technology.
Telegraph's 650 Best Pubs Guide
The Telegraph's guide, published on July 16, 2026, was chosen by a panel of pub experts based on criteria including welcoming atmosphere, drink quality, and community spirit. The list, not ranked in order, includes 75 pubs in Scotland, 50 in Wales, and 25 in Northern Ireland. It updates last year's Best 500 list and features 19 Greater Manchester pubs and eight in Cheshire.
Other Cheshire Pubs in the Guide
The eight Cheshire pubs featured are: The Castle (29 Church St, Macclesfield), The Lodge Inn (88 Crewe Rd, Alsager), The Travellers Rest (Chester Rd, Tarporley), The Albion Inn (Park St, Chester), Olde Cottage (34-36 Brook St, Chester), The Harp Inn (19 Quayside, Little Neston), The Lion (74 Main Rd, Moulton, Northwich), and Black Lion (29 Welsh Row, Nantwich).
Visitor Information
The Castle has no parking, but the main Waters Green public car park is 100m away. Macclesfield railway and bus stations are within a few minutes' walk, with direct routes to Manchester city centre.
