Crown, Heaton Mersey

Possibly the only pub in Stockport without a front door, it is said. Set back off Didsbury Road, this attractive whitewashed building, bright with flower-filled hanging baskets, doesn’t appear to have a way in. However go around the side down the quaint and cobbled Vale Close and you’ll gain admission to this suburban pub with a country feel. As you enter there’s a large lounge to the left (with a small bar counter in the corner) with a distinctly rustic feel; exposed brickwork (this used to be an old bakery way back when), old beams and mix 'n' match furniture all add to the effect. To the right is the main bar counter and this serves two smaller, interconnected rooms which have a more snug-like feel. Warm colours and comfortable seating complete the picture. There’s no pool or anything like that but you’ll often find games being played near the bar – cribbage, dominoes and board games all have a mixed following. There’s a piano in one corner which the locals use from time to time, and for the big matches there’s TV sport. Note the detached roadside beer garden, probably unique in the borough.