Categories > Guides and Tips
The 15 Best Pubs for Foodie-Approved Grub in Wigan
- Traditional Pubs with Classic Pub Grub
- The Boars Head
- The White Lion
- The Raven
- Family-Friendly Pubs with Great Food
- The Moon Under Water
- The Holts Arms
- The Brocket Arms
- Best Gastro Pubs for a Finer Dining Experience
- The Whitesmiths Arms
- Real Crafty
- La Sentidos Loca
- Pubs with Outdoor Seating
- The Berkeley
- Wigan Central
- The Royal Oak
- Pubs with Great Music in Wigan
- The Boulevard
- John Bull Chop House
- Kitt Green Tavern
As of 2023, there are about 43,000 pubs in the UK (at least according to Statista). It isn’t surprising to find at least one pub in any town, however, the number of these places still standing decreases every year.
And while this saddening trend continues, the spirit of the pub—satisfying ales, banging grub, and great community spirit—strives to live on.
So, we’ve rounded ourselves in a group, hit the streets in one of our favourite Mancunian towns, Wigan, and set off a proper pub crawl to find the very best boozers still standing here.
Traditional Pubs with Classic Pub Grub
The Boars Head
Media from THE BOARS HEAD
Address: Wigan Rd, Standish, WN6 0AD
Contact details: 1942 735089
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: £
The Boars Head in Standish is a great example of the quintessential British pub. It isn’t hard to miss—it stands out along Wigan Road with an immaculate white facade.
While the real ales here are excellent, it’s the delicious food that keeps patrons coming back. Indulge in home-cooked pub classics like beef and ale pie, as well as the Boars Head’s superb take on fish & chips on your visit here.
All food is freshly prepared in the pub’s kitchen, so be sure to order your plate before the kitchen closes at 9:00 PM.
Pro tip:
Pop in on Wednesdays for the weekly quiz night, and if you have a dog, bring your lovely pupper along to enjoy the Boars Head’s friendly atmosphere!
The White Lion
Media from The White Lion, Wrightington
Address: 117 Mossy Lea Rd, Wrightinton, WN6 9RE
Contact details: 01257 425977
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Pricing: £
Any local might’ve heard their dad or grandad call this pub “Owd Bob’s” and wondered if they meant the White Lion. They aren’t mistaken, for that charming nickname was coined by a former landlord.
Today, the Furzemans run the establishment. They proudly uphold its tradition of dead good ales alongside a fine selection of wines, spirits, and a varied food menu.
For the ultimate White Lion experience, pop in the morning for breakfast with a quality brew (Big Dave’s plate is a current favourite of ours). Alternatively, ask the bar for a pint of the guest ales, or the regular ones like the 61 Deep.
Pro tip:
If you can’t get enough of the buzzing grub, don’t worry—you can get the entire menu for takeaway. Just give the White Lion a ring or drop an email.
The Raven
Address: 5 Wallgate, WN1 1LD
Contact details: 01942 239764
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Pricing: £
The Raven has been a staple of Wallgate pub-goers for years—a well-looking, old-fashioned pub as many locals would say. It recently changed management, and while initial impressions suggest it’s on the right track, there’s still a bit of work to be done.
The pub boasts a fine selection of real ales, ensuring more chances of you finding a pint to suit your mood. Traditional pub grub like steak and ale pie is available, though as with the rest of the pub, the quality of the food service is still being refined.
Despite these rough edges, the Raven’s ambience is still charming and well for a classic night out.
Pro tip:
If you’re after the full Manchester pub experience, time your visit to catch a big game on the Raven’s telly—a top partner to your pint!
Family-Friendly Pubs with Great Food
The Moon Under Water
Media from Rick Jankowicz
Address: 5-7a Market Place, WN1 1PE
Contact details: 01942 323437
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 8:00 AM to 1:00 AM
Pricing: £
One Wetherspoon (Spoons)-operated pub in Wigan that’s well worth a visit is the Moon Under Water. Tucked into a great location, it also has outdoor seating—perfect for enjoying a dead good pint in fresh air.
True to the Spoon’s reputation, the pub’s menu is extensive and family-friendly. The breakfast plates—small, large, or traditional—are delicious, hearty, and reasonably priced, making them crowd favourites.
Relaxing in this pub at any time of the day, even with family and young ones, is a banging bonding activity.
Pro tip:
If you fancy a bargain, head over the Moon Under Water on weekdays between 2:00 and 5:00 PM for its afternoon deals—a proper cracking offer on any pub meal with a drink.
The Holts Arms
Media from The Holts Arms
Address: Crank Rd, Orrell, WN5 7DT
Contact details: 01695 628006
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Monday – CLOSED
Pricing: ££
Affectionately known as “the Foot,” the Holts Arms in Orrell has been a community fixture since 1721. Its rich history fills the pub with ever-supportive patrons and a unique and vibrant atmosphere, whether you’re at its spacious interior or lively outdoor seats.
The Foot’s menu has classic pub eats like ales, chips, pie, and burgers along with more substantial dishes like pan-seared salmon and a selection of steaks.
A particular highlight here is the banging range of craft gins from the in-house Billinge Ginstitute, which sets the pub apart from the rest in town.
Pro tip:
As the Holts Arms is very popular, be sure to book in advance if you want guaranteed seating.
The Brocket Arms
Media from Dave Phillips
Address: 8 Mesnes Rd, WN1 2DD
Contact details: 1942 403500
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 8:00 AM to 1:00 AM
Pricing: £
Another Wigan pub under the Spoons’ wing is the Brocket Arms. Its best feature is that it doubles as a hotel, making it a brilliant choice for a family day out—with kids and pets fully welcome.
Both indoor and outdoor eating are available, so you can enjoy the pub regardless of the weather.
As with any Spoons establishment, the ales at the Brocket Arms are dead great, but the real star is the food. A diverse, well-rounded menu that’s both child- and dog-friendly is served all day until 11:00 PM, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Pro tip:
When you’re travelling along Mesnes Road to the Brocket Arms and needing some help, be sure to pronounce “Mesnes” as “Mains”—it’ll save you a bit from embarrassment when asking for directions.
Best Gastro Pubs for a Finer Dining Experience
The Whitesmiths Arms
Media from The Whitesmiths Arms Wigan
Address: 88 Standishgate, WN1 1XA
Contact details: 1942 316020
Operating hours: Daily – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: ££
The Whitesmiths Arms in Standishgate, dating back to 1685, has recently done some refurbishments and had a change in management. Thankfully, despite these updates, the pub still exudes its traditional charm.
Its new interior is far more elegant than before. However, a drawback (or dealbreaker) is the absence of real ales in its bar—hopefully only temporarily.
What it lacks in the pints, it makes up for with banging food. The British and Italian menu features dishes with generous portions and reasonable pricing.
Pro tip:
Be keen on trying the Whitesmiths Arms’ fish & chips, any of the pasta plates, or the roast on Sundays, for a satisfying meal.
Real Crafty
Media from Real Crafty Wigan
Address: 9 Upper Dicconson St, WN1 2AD
Contact details: 1942 200364
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Thursday and Sunday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: £
If you feel that the name “Real Crafty” hints at the quality of its ales, you’d be absolutely right. This pub truly lives up to its reputation, even earning the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) award for the Best Pub in Greater Manchester in 2022.
The atmosphere is clean and vibrant, with a fantastic selection of ales and ciders to explore. Pair your chosen pint with a pie, and you’re in for a cracking time.
The beer selection changes regularly, except for one staple, making each visit a fresh experience—and if you fancy one kind so bad, get it canned in-house to take home.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss Real Crafty’s quiz nights on Tuesdays. Big games are also available on the pub’s telly!
La Sentidos Loca
Media from La Sentidos Loca
Address: Crofters Arms, 14 Market St, WN1 1HX
Contact details: 1942 386766
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Pricing: ££
Although La Sentidos Loca isn’t your typical UK pub, it’s still a buzzing spot for drinks—either while flying solo or out with mates and family.
This Tex-Mex joint brings a refreshing twist to the Wigan drinking scene, offering not just a solid range of local and foreign beers (by tap and bottle), but also a tempting selection of margaritas and tequilas.
If you’re already feeling peckish, the menu is packed with flavourful Tex-Mex classics like chili con carne, enchiladas, and chimichangas—sizeable portions at great value.
Pro tip:
La Sentidos Loca is a child-friendly spot, too! Picky little ones can test out dishes new to their world with the kids’ menu.
Pubs with Outdoor Seating
The Berkeley
Media from Lauren Davies
Address: 27-29 Wallgate, WN1 1LD
Contact details: 1942 242041
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Pricing: £
Just a stone’s throw away from Wigan Wallgate rail station, the Berkeley is a traditional British pub housed in a very spacious building—no worries about feeling cramped burning a pub crawl stop here.
It’s a top spot for watching sports as it boasts eight large-screen TVs to catch all the action. At the bar, you’ll find four ales on tap, with two rotating guest options to keep things interesting.
For entertainment, it’s best to head down here on Sundays for the karaoke nights, while Fridays feature a live band. On the other hand, DJs and live performances are in store for weekend goers.
Pro tip:
If the weather permits, have your drink at the small open seating area in front of the pub.
Wigan Central
Media from Wigan Central
Address: Arch No. 1 and 2, Queen St, WN3 4DY
Contact details: 1942 246425
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Pricing: £
For a unique pub experience in town, Wigan Central is a must-visit. Nestled within two railway arches, it has a 1950s charm and an old-school railway vibe that won’t be easily matched anywhere else.
Beyond its standout setting, the pub boasts an ever-changing selection of seven real ales and ciders. The management handpicks these, headed by owner Jo—a certified cicerone (a.k.a. beer sommelier).
The food at Wigan Central is just as solid as the drinks, with signature pork pies and scotch eggs to help sort out the day.
Pro tip:
Grab an outdoor seat to soak up the sun and enjoy the industrial railway scenery while sipping a pint.
The Royal Oak
Media from The Royal Oak
Address: 111-113 Standishgate, WN1 1XL
Contact details: 01942 820563
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to LATE
- Friday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to LATE
Pricing: £
One of the biggest beer gardens we’ve seen in Wigan so far is at Standishgate’s Royal Oak. It has a massive 80-seater outdoor space spread across its front and back lawns.
There’s only one type of ale at the tap, so hoping for variety on the beer is already out of the question (unless you fancy some gin instead). However, the pub compensates with great food.
You’ll be all sorted with the Royal Oak beef burger—made more special with the house signature RO sauce, smoked bacon, and fries on the side.
Visit Friday to Saturday morning to catch the breakfast menu, or check out the vegan dishes from its partner kitchen, Seitanic.
Pro tip:
Food service ends at 8:00 PM, so get your orders in early!
Pubs with Great Music in Wigan
The Boulevard
Media from Sam Millar
Address: 19 Wallgate, WN1 1LD
Contact details: 1942 497165
Operating hours:
- Thursday – 8:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 6:30 PM to 5:00 AM
Pricing: £
The Boulevard is a buzzing mix of live music venue and pub that’s tucked into a compact basement space. If you fancy a night livelier and longer than your usual pub crawl, this is the place to be.
Plus points if you love rock and punk music or your favourite band is taking the stage here.
Even on non-gig nights, there are plenty of ways to enjoy at the Boulevard.
The bar serves up solid pints, perfect for drinking into the early hours of morning. And if you’re feeling competitive, join the Phone Quiz or belt your heart out at karaoke every Thursday.
Pro tip:
Check the Boulevard’s socials or website for gig schedules. If you’re more inclined to just potter around town, just turn up here and let the pub surprise you!
John Bull Chop House
Media from John Bull Chophouse
Address: 2 Coopers Row, WN1 1PQ
Contact details: 1942 242862
Operating hours:
- Wednesday and Thursday – 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Monday and Tuesday – CLOSED
Pricing: £
The John Bull Chop House is a great venue for an authentic Wigan pub experience. Housed in a Grade II Listed structure that’s over 300 years old, its unassuming exterior gives little hint of the buzzing atmosphere inside.
Two things define the John Bull Chop House: its top-notch real ales and the legendary jukebox upstairs that blasts energetic rock anthems that span generations. It’s a time-tested favourite of keen Wigan locals (but is surprisingly still a hidden gem for most people).
Pro tip:
Patience is key for a good time at the John Bull Chop House. This place gets rammed, so expect a bit of a wait at the bar!
Kitt Green Tavern
Media from Kitt Green Tavern
Address: 230 City Rd, Kitt Green, WN5 0BG
Contact details: 01942 225680
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:00 PM to 12:30 AM
Pricing: £
The Kitt Green Tavern is a dead good example of a true Wigan local’s pub. The staff here knows all of its patrons’ names and their go-to drinks—it’s common to see them serving drinks before the customer opens their mouth to order.
There’s food too—we love the pizzas.
The pub loves to showcase live music from up-and-coming artists every Saturday, keeping the atmosphere lively and fresh.
It also doesn’t skimp on having drink promos. There’s almost always a game featured on its telly, so it’s a banging choice for downtime and entertainment, even when on a budget.
Pro tip:
Do you have a four-legged mate? Dogs are more than welcome to relax at the Kitt Green Tavern.
