The Goose, an iconic LGBTQ+ pub on Bloom Street in Manchester's Gay Village, has been named Pub of the Week. Owners Paul Senior and David Thornhill, who also run The Oxnoble in Castlefield, have been behind the venue since 2018, transforming its look and atmosphere. The pub is a go-to for karaoke and drag acts on weekends, and a quiet spot for a midweek pint.
History and Name
The building dates back to the 1800s, first opening as a schoolhouse in the early 19th century. In 1845, maps show it as a pub named The Ram's Head. It later became The Hussars Tavern, The Fleece Tavern, The Fleece Inn, and The Kingston Hotel in the 1970s. In the late 1980s, it was known as Paddy's Goose, after landlord Patrick. In 2014, it was renamed The Goose.
Renovation and Guests
In 2023, the floor dropped significantly after a busy Saturday night, leading to a £300,000 investment to fix the issue and modernise the interiors. Notable guests include Sue Devaney from Coronation Street, BAFTA-winner Sophie Willan, and Danny Beard of RuPaul's Drag Race UK.
Community and Support
David praised the Gay Village as "like nothing else in the world," noting the bars have come together to fund this year's Pride and work with Manchester Council on outdoor seating. He encouraged support for local pubs, saying, "Your local pub needs you!"
