Dukes 92

Modern waterside conversion with spacious interior, great range of cheeses and pizzas all day

Minimalist but comfortable this big converted stable block is now even bigger with a stylish new gallery bar, accessed by an elegant spiral staircase and overlooking the canal. Old and modern furnishings, including comfortable chaises-longues and deep armchairs, throughout the ground floor are well spaced and contrast with boldly bare whitewashed bare walls. The handsome granite-topped counter serves three real ales, two usually from Moorhouses, as well as decent wines and a wide choice of spirits; piped music. The building is located in the basin and bottom lock of the Rochdale Canal among other restored Victorian warehouses, and tables outside on a big terrace enjoy good waterside views.

The menu is short but includes an excellent range of over three dozen cheeses and pâtés with generous helpings of granary bread; also sandwiches and salads. From mid-afternnon onwards they serve pizzas only. Puddings include chocolate fudge cake and sticky toffee pudding; the restaurant has a grill menu with burgers and steaks.