Review: The Eagle Inn, Salford

Nestled in a hubbub of new development — the kind that Tim Darcy laments in his ode to the banality of modern day life — The Eagle Inn feels incongruous with its surroundings. Yet it feels wrong to deem it so, for the Salford institution dates back to 1903, and its beautiful red brick facade, panelled windows, and cosy indoor space are precisely what this northern city is known for.

Inside, the small bar offers a limited selection of traditional, local ales, as well as a comprehensive selection of bar snacks. The jukebox in the entrance has killer collection of albums, from The Clash to Nick Cave, all lovingly written out by hand. From open ’til close, the pub plays BBC Radio 6 Music, paying homage to its esteem as a small venue too — I was lucky to be there for Marc Riley’s show on which The Eagle is frequently mentioned, and by whom The Eagle is often frequented.

To the average student in Manchester, a trip to Salford may seem as daunting as a mounting an expedition to the Moon. But to the curious, to the probing, to the adventurous, a trip to Salford and its Eagle Inn is really just a short journey, with a big reward at the end of it.

Recommended song for the walk: Beautiful Blue Sky — Ought.
Recommended drink: Two Hoots Golden Ale — £3.50 — Brewed in Manchester.