Country pub class at the Jolly Thresher, Lymm
Getting out into the Cheshire countryside on the weekend when the sun peeks through the autumn weather is an absolute must for me. This was what prompted a recent adventure down to Dunham Massey. Taking the tram down to Alty it’s only a short walk to the gorgeous grounds where you can see deer walking around, and there are National Trust bits and pieces if you fancy poking around in the 17th-century house or grabbing a scone and a brew at the cafe.
However, I knew I wasn’t too far away from one of my favourite pubs on the outskirts of Lymm—the legendary Jolly Thresher. Cutting across Dunham Massey, making a beeline past the Swan With Two Nicks and up to the A56 it was only a short walk to the iconic destination pub and restaurant operated by Hydes Brewery of Manchester.
The Jolly is famed for its exceptionally warm welcome, and incredible food and it’s one of the top pubs in Cheshire for serving top-tier coffee (something that’s often not a top priority for a typical pub in my experience). This is 100% more of a destination food pub than it is a standard boozer, which is immediately apparent upon entering the building. The cosy snug area across from the small bar occupies the original footprint of this once humble pub, which has been extended out into a large restaurant area, with bifold doors leading out onto a grand terrace overlooking a huge beer garden.
The beer garden itself hosts a large Nordic Tipi, serving as a unique setting for large gatherings and parties. This outside space alone puts this pub on the map as one of the best destinations in Cheshire for alfresco dining in the Summer. Definitely a must-visit for sipping a crisp pint in the Sun.
It’s not just a Summer pub, though. In the Winter the log fires provide plenty of cosy atmosphere, providing a perfect setting for festive gatherings and the like.
On this particular occasion I was after one of their quality coffees and a light snack. I was not disappointed. My latte came complete with a perfect leaf on the top and a biscoff to dunk in with. The Korean glazed cauli wings were fresh and flavourful, going down a treat. Service was flawless with friendly smiles at every turn. Even when it’s understandably busy in here you’re always acknowledged and never feel forgotton.
I didn’t get a beer on this occasion, but they do have a quality lineup of keg products including Amstel, Grand Central IPA and Guinness. Like all Hydes pubs, their cask lineup is limited to Hyde’s brews, however, these traditional ales are always good quality and well-liked in the area and they are Cask Marque accredited. As this is a destination foodie pub, for the designated drivers, they have Heineken 0% on tap as well as the hugely popular Guinness 0.0% in cans. For the wine drinkers, they have an impressive lineup of bottles sourced from all the major regions and the staff are exceptionally knowledgeable about which wines pair well with the home-cooked dishes on their menu.
This is a top-shelf pub. One to remember for your next day out in Cheshire.