I finally went to try out one of my locals after it was named the best pub in Greater Manchester

Although it's one of my locals, I can’t say it ever drew my attention before hearing its now an award-winning establishment – so I went down to see what made this pub better than the rest.

Originally built by the Duke of Norfolk in 1824, ‘The Thumb’, as regulars call it, was previously owned by Robinsons Brewery until it was declared a community pub in 2017, saving the place from permanent closure.

The building is easily located on the main road in Marple Bridge alongside outdoor seating and gazebos set up for outdoor summer gigs. Inside, it looks like one of those old boozers your grandad would drag you to to watch the football on a Saturday afternoon with its 80s-style patterned carpet and wooden stools around the tables. Nonetheless, The Thumb has plenty to offer to set it apart from its rival competitors.

The darts and pool table are the main attraction, along with a bookshelf filled with donated books for those ‘rainy day’ pints. The book shelf is filled to the brim with donated and well loved books, which really reflects the community spirit of the place.

The beer garden is the establishment’s biggest pull, especially on sunny days. Located at the back of the pub opposite the bar, the green space is well maintained, with some colourful flora which really elevates the surroundings.

Overall, it's not the old style decorating or the pool table that makes this pub better than the rest, what makes this pub unlike the others is its lovely staff and customers. They were so welcoming and took the time to make sure I wasn’t a stranger. The pub’s joyful atmosphere will definitely pull me back for another pint.

Have a look around the Northumberland Arms in our video above.