Hanging Gate, Weaverham (From Northwich Guardian)

Hanging Gate, Weaverham

11:52am Friday 17th August 2007 in Leisure By Staff reporter

THERE is no doubt the Hanging Gate stands as a landmark in Weaverham. It sits at a busy crossroads and has played its part in village traditions since being built in the early 18th century.

Now landlord Alan and Sheila Doleman welcome plenty of regulars who enjoy both a good ale and tasty food.

My trip with a group of friends was on a Friday night.

We were quite happily tucked away in a corner so were a little unaware of how busy the pub was. However, past experience told me that the Hanging Gate's most popular times are its quiz nights.

The most I had ever eaten at the Gate was sandwiches and chips so it was a pleasant surprise to see the pub boasted a varied menu that was reasonably priced.

But the proof was always going to be in the tasting.

It was cooked just the way I like it – although that might not be to everyone’s tastes – and was an impressive second half to my meal.

Andrew Moores praises the Hanging Gate's sirloin steak

To start with I plumped for vegetable soup. It could have been a non-event, but those who shared my tastes were impressed by the dish. It was bursting with flavour. A good start. Carrying on my tradition of trying steak just about everywhere I go, my main course was a large sirloin.

It was cooked just the way I like it - although that might not be to everyone's tastes - and was an impressive second half to my meal.

Served with a generous portion of vegetables, it proved a filling dish leaving no room for a dessert. Over the years the Hanging Gate, originally a farm pub called the Gate Inn, has been part of the Marbury estate.

In 1932 it was sold to Greenhall Whitley and became the Hanging Gate.

Since then its central location has kept it a focus of attention.

The event of the year was known as Hospital Saturday, which raised money for the Northwich Infirmary.

It included a fancy dress and procession, which started at the Hanging Gate and travelled along West Road and through the village back to the fields opposite the Hanging Gate.

Competitions were then held on the field such as the greasy pole competition with the person who climbed the highest winning a pig.

Now the Weaverham Carnival passes the Hanging Gate and Alan is always happy to make the revellers welcome.

This pub is certainly in safe hands with Alan and Sheila. The regulars - some more regular than others - seem to enjoy their company and there is no doubt they add a lot of character to this pub.

That - and the rather tasty hash browns - is enough to make me want to go back for more at this Weaverham landmark.