Two of Bolton’s best known public houses, both dating back to the 19th Century are to have new life breathed into them but vastly different results.

The Brinsop Arms in Westhoughton is applying for planning permission to be refurbished and transformed into a state of the art Pub and Hotel with 30 large bedrooms, all with en-suite facilities, while the Town Centre Pack Horse Hotel, has been given the go ahead to be transformed into student accommodation for around 100 students from the towns university. 

The Pack Horse closed as a hotel in 2009 when it was beset by a number of problems which would have cost too much to rectify in order for it to have continued to perform it’s primary function as a commercial hotel. It’s then owners decided enough was enough and that the building was no longer fit for purpose but recent proposals have now been approved to see around 100 students taking up residence in the 19th century building which will not only boast en-suite facilities and Wi Fi in every room but also a gym.

It is hoped that the influx of so many young people living right in the centre of Bolton will breathe new life into the struggling town centre leisure industry and see Nelson Square revitalised.

Meanwhile across town, in Westhoughton, The Brinsop Arms, another well known 19th century hostelry which, in my opinion, has suffered from a bad case of ‘cosmetic affliction’ in recent years is to receive a face lift to be proud of, giving it a 21st century appearance with glass frontage, outdoor dining area and terraces. 

Having driven past the Brinsop Arms on many occasions in recent years and been totally underwhelmed by it’s appearance I have to say that when I did venture inside recently I was extremely pleasantly surprised at the standard of internal decoration, comfort and friendly welcome, with an extensive restaurant and bar menu and fantastic function suite; so I will be very eager to experience the results of the impending refurbishment.

At thebestof bolton we would be very happy to work with both of these local venues to promote their facilities to an eager audience.