Why The Queens Arms in Eccles Was Named Best UK Pub
There are thousands of pubs scattered across towns and villages around the United Kingdom, but finding the absolute finest requires a trip to Eccles. The Queens Arms, which holds the unique distinction of being the world's oldest surviving passenger railway pub, has just been declared the top boozer in the country. This prestigious accolade comes directly from the Good Food Guide, which compiled its definitive ranking from a massive pool of 20,000 reader nominations submitted by dedicated patrons.
While the exterior of The Queens Arms presents the classic aesthetic of a traditional British drinking establishment, stepping inside reveals a distinct culinary surprise. Instead of standard pub grub like pie and mash, the kitchen serves up a Japanese izakaya-style menu. Visitors can order dishes ranging from katsu and steaming noodle bowls to eel and wagyu burgers, creating a fusion of cultures that sets the venue apart from its peers.
What Makes This Grade-II Listed Pub Unique
The Good Food Guide specifically praised the venue for its unexpected blend of culture, a feature that consistently wins over new visitors and regular patrons alike. On Tripadvisor, one punter described the venue as an old fashioned relaxed traditional pub with a Japanese twist. Other reviewers called it a gem of a place, with high praise directed at the food, especially the light and crispy tempura battered prawns and crab.
Despite the modern Japanese menu, the Grade-II listed building still retains plenty of its original historic features. Patrons can spot original fireplaces, traditional bar fittings, and classic booth seats that hark back to earlier centuries. For anyone who still desires a more conventional drinking experience, the establishment features a separate drinking den equipped with a dartboard and standard draught beers on tap.
History of The Queens Arms and the Railway Connection
Historically, the venue was originally named The Patricroft Tavern when it first opened its doors in 1828. The opening aligned precisely with the launch of the historic Liverpool and Manchester Railway. According to historical accounts, Eccles cakes and beer were even sold directly to railway passengers during the early days of operation, though this practice eventually had to stop because the sales were delaying the trains.
The location served as a busy hub for travellers for many years. Local history and lore suggest that Queen Victoria even stepped inside the building a few times during her travels. This royal connection is reportedly the reason why the pub was eventually renamed The Queens Arms. The building stands in Eccles, within Greater Manchester, maintaining its structural integrity through nearly two centuries of transport and social history.
Exploring the Town of Eccles Beyond the Pub
Travellers making the journey to the top-ranked pub will find plenty of other attractions in the surrounding town. Eccles shares its name with the well-known Eccles cake, a flaky pastry filled with currants and mixed spices. These sweet treats were first sold in the town back in 1796, and consequently, the cakes were named after the locality. One must-do activity for any visitor is to pop into one of the local independent cafes to sample one of the baked goodies.
Many of these independent spots are found along Monton Road, including Playfoots Cafe and Bar, Oats and Honey, and Monton Village Bakery. Beyond food and drink, another popular activity for visitors is a stroll or a cycle along the local waterfront. The Bridgewater Canal, which connects Runcorn, Manchester, and Leigh, runs directly through the town of Eccles, offering scenic trails beside the water.
How to Get to The Queens Arms and Practical Travel Tips
Planning a visit to the newly crowned best pub in the country is straightforward thanks to local transport links. The nearest train stop to The Queens Arms is Patricroft, which sits just 17 minutes away from Manchester Piccadilly by train. For visitors planning to extend their trip into the city centre, Manchester offers numerous hidden gems recommended by locals, ranging from independent shops to family-friendly attractions.
The combination of rich railway heritage, historic architecture, and an innovative food menu explains why thousands of readers nominated the venue. As public interest in unconventional dining experiences grows, historic institutions that adapt while preserving their architectural roots continue to capture public attention. Visitors arriving at Patricroft station can easily walk to the venue and experience the blend of 19th-century railway history and modern Japanese dining for themselves.
