The Stanley Arms pub, which sits close by to the world-famous Anderton Boat Lift, has reopened to the public following a four-week-long investment with leading pub company Punch Pubs & Co.
Publican, Moira Henderson is overjoyed with the investment and couldn’t wait to show off the changes to her locals and visiting guests. She said: “I’m absolutely over the moon with the changes, we’ve waited a long time for this investment and now it’s happened it was well worth the wait.
“I’ve had a permanent smile on my face since we reopened, the comments and feedback have been overwhelming. Everybody is so happy with the changes and I’m happy to be back doing what I do best!”
Having been at The Stanley Arms for the last six years, Publican Moira affectionately known as ‘Mo’ has built up a fantastic rapport with the Anderton community, and couldn’t wait to welcome locals and visiting guests back through the door.
She added: “The reaction of the community is what keeps me in this job. It’s a challenging industry to be in and it doesn’t come without its bad days, but the good ones outweigh that by far. There’s something about working in a pub, it keeps you alive and gives you a buzz. The locals are great, my staff and team are amazing and with our new refurbishment, I’m even more excited to open the doors each morning!”
The £90k investment by Punch has completely transformed all elements of the pub. The interior offers a relaxed and calm environment whilst still retaining the traditional pub feel, and the wooden ceiling beams have been restored complimenting the rest of the pub which is painted in a neutral and sage green palette.
Other additions to the pub include new lighting and fixtures, bold photographs and ornaments and new flooring throughout, all adding to the pub’s new aesthetic. The bar and dining areas have both been given a refresh with dark oak tables and stools and the pub’s timeless brick fireplace has been restored to compliment the cosy ambience.
Whilst there have been many changes at the Stanley Arms, guests will be delighted to know that Mo’s traditional, home-cooked and hearty dishes will remain on the menu. An Executive Chef by trade, Moira’s natural place in the pub is in the kitchen, where she stirs up a storm with dishes like Steak and Ale Pie, Thai Fish Cakes and homemade Steak Burgers, alongside various light bites and indulgent desserts.
Moira said: “In this industry, and when you run your own pub business, you have to be flexible, I call myself a jack of all trades. I start the morning off in the cellar, then I’m behind the bar, and then preparing the kitchen – but I love it! No two days are the same in this job, and even when I’ve gone to try something new I’ve always been drawn back into hospitality!”
Sitting close to the renowned Anderton Boat Lift, the Stanley Arms has Canal & River Trust moorings for boaters’ use whilst visiting the pub, and its impressive beer garden can cater to visiting guests or walkers looking for a pitstop for a refreshing beer. Being dog-friendly, the pub has ample space for four-legged friends too.
Locals have rejoiced at their local being back in action after it reopened on Friday, October 4th, and are raving about the various changes at the new-look-pub.
For bookings and more information about the Stanley Arms, you can visit their Facebook page.