The Old Packet House, a historic pub in Altrincham, will close for a month starting Monday, August 17, for a full refurbishment that owners say has been a 'long time' coming. The pub, located on Navigation Road beside the Bridgewater Canal, will reopen on September 21.
A canalside landmark
Built in the 1770s, the pub originally served as a stop-off point for passengers travelling the canal between Manchester and Runcorn. It is now considered a rare functioning 18th-century canalside landmark, retaining original features such as glass work and a central chimney with a real log fire.
Owners Carl and Sharni said the venue needs 'serious investment' after years of wear. In a social media post, they explained: "Sorry to inform everyone, but we're closing The Old Packet House. Hospitality has been brutal for everyone these last few years, and if we're honest, this building has needed serious investment for a long time. We've reached the point where patching things up isn't enough anymore. So we're doing something about it."
What the refurbishment includes
The new look will retain 'the tradition and character' of the building but will feature new tables, padded chairs, flooring, 'state-of-the-art' kitchen equipment, a new draught and ale offering, a brand new menu, and a 'revitalised' beer garden and outdoor area.
The post added: "This is a fresh start for a building and a business that's been part of Altrincham for a long time. Carl, Sharni and the team have worked hard over the last three years to bring this pub back to what it once was. Ask around and you'll still hear the stories, thirty, forty, even fifty years ago, of what a genuinely great pub this is. We've spent a lot of time understanding this building's past to help shape where it's going next. This refurbishment is about using everything we've learned to give you the pub you deserve."
Last days and reopening
To mark the occasion, the pub is offering drinks specials until Sunday, August 16, including Guinness for £4 and Madri for £4.50 'until it's gone'. Regulars have expressed support, with one calling it the "Best pub in Alty" and another saying it is "a little gem in Broadheath Altrincham." The pub is at 1 Navigation Rd, Altrincham WA14 1LW, open until Sunday, and reopens September 21.
