The Midland pub in Marple Bridge, one of Stockport's most cherished venues, has reopened after a major four-week transformation. The pub, located on Brabyns Brow, now boasts a 'thoughtfully reimagined' interior with a restored bar, cocktail station, and a revitalised outdoor terrace area overlooking the River Goyt.
New Menu and Management
Under the leadership of manager Gary Smythe, who has been at the helm for over 18 months, The Midland has introduced a brand-new menu celebrating British pub classics. Dishes include Pan-Roasted Lamb Rump, Asparagus & Squash Orzo, and Tarragon-Battered Line-Caught Haddock with thick-cut chips. Freshly chargrilled steaks, such as the 7oz Fillet and 10oz Ribeye, are served with rustic chips, caramelised Roscoff onion, sautéed mushrooms, and parsley butter. Desserts feature Timperley Rhubarb & Apple Crumble, classic Tiramisu, and home-baked chocolate brownie.
History and Significance
The Midland was built around 1870 as a hotel to house railway line workers during track construction. Once the track was completed, it became the pub it is today. Marple Bridge is known as 'The Gateway to The Peak District,' and the pub serves as a popular starting point for walks in the area, including near the Peak Forest Canal, Brabyns Park, and Mellor Moor.
Community and Atmosphere
Gary Smythe highlights the strong community spirit in Marple Bridge, with bi-annual events including a summer party and a family-friendly Christmas market that close the village road. The pub also hosts clubs and meetings, with a semi-private room for up to 12 guests overlooking the River Goyt. According to Smythe, 'There is a large community spirit in Marple Bridge.'
Best-Selling Drinks
The pub stocks nine draught products, with Peroni as the best-seller. From the wine list, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is the most popular white, pairing well with fish dishes, while the house Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina, is the top red, ideal for steaks and Sunday roast beef. The Hugo Spritz cocktail, made with Saint Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Prosecco, mint, and soda, is a summer favourite on the patio.
Famous Visitors and Ghostly Tales
The pub once hosted the film crew and presenters from 'Location, Location, Location' while filming in Marple. Ian Brown from The Stone Roses also visited years ago, though Smythe regrets missing the encounter. As for ghostly folklore, there are reports of a spirit in an upstairs stock room, where the temperature can drop suddenly even in summer. On quiet nights, some claim to hear horse hooves in the car park, a possible echo from the pub's coaching house days.
Supporting the Local Pub
Smythe encourages community support by using the pub as a meeting place for clubs and institutes, from coffee mornings to evening meetings. The pub opens at 11am for coffee and drinks, with the menu available from 12pm daily. The Midland is located at 26 Brabyns Brow, Marple Bridge, Stockport SK6 5DT.
