The Oldham Times' community reporter Jack Fifield grabbed a pint at the Fox and Pine to see why it has been named the best in the region.
The Fox and Pine on Greaves Street won CAMRA’s Rochdale, Oldham and Bury Branch Pub of the Year award for 2022.
Wooden decor and a collection of fox-themed artwork make for a warm, laid-back atmosphere.
Bartender Jane Curran has worked at the pub for six months, I ask her for a recommendation on what to drink and she suggests her favourite, a pint of ‘Hell’ – telling me it’s where we’re all going anyway.
A view, I note, that appears to be shared by some of the street preachers I had just passed by on my walk from Spindles.
At £3.95, it’s far from the most expensive pint I’ve bought in Greater Manchester – and it tastes a lot better than many of them too.
“Foster’s and Carling – it’s like pond water to me,” Jane, who lives in Chadderton, tells me.
A range of music can be heard over the pub’s sound system – described as an ‘eclectic mix’ by Jane.
While I was there, a mixture of Elton John, Dusty Springfield, and Bob Marley featured – though I’m told selections change throughout the day and according to clientele.
The pub also takes requests.
Dogs on leads are welcome in the pub, with free Bonio treats available “for good doggies” from a cute dispenser mounted to the side of the bar.
Candles on each table and a fireplace with glowing artificial coals add to the pub’s charm.
Chatty locals also ensure that the pub wasn’t silent even in the middle of the day.
And a small beer garden out back means those wanting to enjoy the weather – or just looking for some fresh air have a place to do so.
Awnings over the outdoor seating show the pub is well-prepared for the variability of Oldham’s weather.
In addition to the ground floor and garden, more seating is available on the first floor – the pub feels cosy without feeling cramped.
Free Wi-Fi and power plugs with additional USB sockets mean that those with a busy schedule don’t have to disconnect while they drink their lunchtime pint.
Toilet facilities are clean, and an accessible toilet is available on the pub’s ground floor.
The Fox and Pine is open from 12 noon until 10pm, seven days a week.
Located on the corner of Greaves Street and Firth Street, the pub is just a two-minute walk from the Oldham Central Metrolink stop.
Cycle parking is available on Firth Street. Car parking is available at nearby Southgate Street Car Park and at Spindles.
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