Archive, Cheadle Hulme (Archive Bar)

A good deal of thought has clearly gone into the design of Archive, with good use made of both floors in the building. Downstairs there’s a large entrance lobby with a room to the right, where you will find a small elevated area containing some seating), then to the left, is the main bar area. Here, pride of place goes to an array of handpumps, plus 12 keg beers on the bar back. A spiral staircase takes you to another room divided into a lounge area and a snug, with leather sofas and low tables (the toilets are up here too). Throughout, much use is made of natural wood and vintage furniture while the décor is in warm shades of green. Natural copper is also a feature and adds to the homely feel, while the large windows make it all very light and airy. A feature of the decoration is the displays of beer bottles on shelves throughout every room - the bar really is an archive of great beers, past and present. Food is served until early evening and consists of small bites and more substantial meals. Artisanal gins, a cocktails menu, and well-chosen wines are another feature. The bar is accessed via a ramp up from the pavement or via the alleyway alongside, where there is a small smoking area in the shadow of the station's Platform 2. However neither of the two entrances are accessible to wheelchairs. The upstairs rooms are available to hire.