The Charles Dickens, Wigan – A new chapter for a town centre favourite
As one of Wigan's most recognisable town centre pubs, it has remained an important part of Wigan's social scene through the years.
For generations of Wiganers, the Charles Dickens has been much more than just a pub. It has been a place where friends met after work, football fans gathered before and after the match, families celebrated special occasions, and countless memories were made.


Standing proudly on Upper Dicconson Street, the building has been a licensed premises for decades. While the exact date of its construction is unclear, it has witnessed Wigan grow and change over the years. Many locals will remember it trading under different names, including Dochertys, while others remember it as the Charles Dickens Hotel. Through different owners and refurbishments, the venue has adapted with the times while never losing its place in the community.
One thing that has never changed is the warm welcome. The Charles Dickens has always been a friendly, welcoming pub where regulars and first-time visitors alike are made to feel at home. Whether you're calling in for a quiet pint, meeting friends before a night out or watching live sport, it continues to offer the relaxed atmosphere that has made it a favourite for so many years.
Today, the Charles Dickens successfully blends traditional pub values with modern entertainment. Guests can enjoy fantastic drink deals, live sport on big screens, karaoke, DJs, live music and brilliant weekend entertainment, making it one of the liveliest venues in the town centre.
The pub is also home to a beautiful beer garden, offering the perfect place to relax with family and friends during the warmer months. Situated next to Real Craft and Fifteens, it's ideally located for anyone enjoying Wigan's nightlife, yet still manages to offer the welcoming atmosphere of a traditional local.
The future is looking brighter than ever. The Charles Dickens Hotel is set to open soon, bringing overnight accommodation back to the venue and welcoming visitors from across the region. Exciting plans are also in place to redevelop the front of the pub, giving the building a fresh new appearance while respecting its long history and character.
The Charles Dickens proves that while times change, the heart of a great pub never does. It continues to be a place where people come together, friendships are made, memories are shared and everyone receives a warm welcome.
Whether you're visiting for the fantastic drink deals, live entertainment, live sport, the beautiful beer garden or simply to enjoy the friendly atmosphere, the Charles Dickens remains one of Wigan's favourite pubs. With an exciting future ahead and its community spirit stronger than ever, this historic venue is ready to welcome both familiar faces and new visitors for many years to come.