The Trafford pub been given a new six-figure lease of life
The Old Packet House in Altrincham has reopened following a major £390k revamp(Image: Admiral Taverns)
An 18th-century canalside pub in Trafford that had been described as being in desperate need of a patch-up is now unrecognisable after reopening following a six-figure revamp.
The Old Packet House, on Navigation Road in Altrincham, is a popular visiting spot for dog walkers and ramblers heading to the overlooking Bridgewater Canal.
The community pub was first built in the 1770s and has retained a number of its original features including its glasswork and chimney with three open fireplaces. But Carl Stonehouse, the licensee of the venue, admits it has been in need of ‘serious investment’ for some time now.
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Thankfully, it has just reopened following a combined investment of £390,000 from Carl and Admiral Taverns. The revamp has kept in place many of its original characteristics, whilst ‘breathing a new lease of life’ into the venue.
It has undergone a full refurbishment with brand new decor, fittings, furniture and floorings. It has also had new external signs installed as well as a fresh coat of paint, and an updated beer garden with new heaters, seating and an undercover area to be enjoyed all year round.
Carl said he hopes the changes will ensure the pub will keep its position as a focal point in the local community, as well as attracting more people and families to visit for the first time.
He explained: “It has been fantastic seeing the refurbishment come together over the past couple of weeks, but nothing beats finally reopening our doors and welcoming back familiar faces alongside plenty of new ones.
“The response from the local community has been brilliant, and after four great years running the pub, I’m really excited for this next chapter. A huge thank you to everyone who made this possible, especially the team at Admiral Taverns for all their guidance and support.”
‘An impressive transformation’
The Old Packet House will have a regular calendar of events throughout the week, including quiz nights, open mic sessions, Northern Soul celebrations, poker nights, fundraisers, and even Irish-themed weekend parties.
The pub has also expanded on its drinks offering with an extensive portfolio behind the bar spanning across cask ales, premium draught lagers and ciders, as well as a cocktail menu and wine, liqueur and spirits selections.
It has also revamped its food menu, which includes traditional favourites like pies, burgers, and fish and chips. The menu also includes Jambalaya, chicken in a basket, a wild mushroom and spinach tortellini, and a tender sliced beef and gravy ciabatta, as well as a Sunday Roast offering with options including topside beef, roast pork and turkey, or a brie and mushroom wellington.
Craig Knights, Business Development Manager at Admiral Taverns, added: “It has been brilliant to see the Old Packet House reopen after such an impressive transformation.
“Carl and his team have worked tirelessly to get every detail just right, and seeing the place full of customers again is fantastic. On behalf of myself and everyone at Admiral Taverns, I would like to wish Carl and everyone at the Old Packet House all the best for the future.”
The Old Packet House is on 1 Navigation Rd, Altrincham WA14 1LW.
