Historic 14th century boozer reopens after 15-year closure

Almost exactly 15 years to the day that it closed, one of Stockport’s oldest pubs – The White Lion Coaching House – has reopened ending years of speculation about the site’s future.

The pub, which has a fascinating history, will be a welcome reopening for Stockport, which has enjoyed a real revival and revitalisation in recent years.

It retains lots of the original beautiful features that make this such a unique and interesting place to grab some food and drink.

The White Lion, Stockport

Occupying a commanding site on the super trendy Great Underbank, the White Lion has been resurrected by veteran hospitality operators Paul Astill and Jon Dootson who between them have owned and run several venerable Mancunian institutions including Cord, Centro, Thomas, Rampant Lion and the Tib St. Tavern.

In partnership with Stockport Council Paul and Jon also operate Alfredo’s Social in the historic Winter’s building on Little Underbank that has quickly become a mainstay of Stockport’s burgeoning foodie scene.

White Lion co-owner Paul Astill

Speaking to I Love MCR Paul said: “As soon as Jon showed me the building I just fell in love with it and I instantly said I want to be involved.

“The White Lion has an amazing history and everyone in the community has a story to tell about it.

“It’s taken us over four years to finally open the doors and we’re really proud of the result.”

History of The White Lion Coaching House

The White Lion Coaching House has a fascinating and storied history with a hostelry at the location being first granted a license in the fourteenth century.

Throughout the Victorian age whilst still operating as a pub and coaching house the White Lion also served as a post house, an auction house, a labour exchange and even a coroner’s court before being rebuilt in 1904 in the style it’s in today.

The history isn’t lost on designer Paul and shopfitter Jon who have worked hard in conjunction with Stockport Council to retain the pub’s Edwardian charm.

Said Paul: “It’s a beautiful building but it was an empty shell when we started.

“We feel like we have really achieved something when people comment on us keeping the original features but it’s actually all new with the exception of the entrance.

“We’ve also created the Lion’s Den and Boardroom in the cellars, which is a space that has never previously been used. It’s kind of a gentleman’s club feel that is perfect for intimate gigs, parties or private functions.

“It’ll also host the Lion’s Den Sporting Club showing all sports starting with all the Euro games.”

As well as a stunning interior the White Lion also has a firm focus on quality when it comes to food and drink with a well-stocked bar of international beers and ales which will be expanded over time.

The kitchen will be serving up the best in traditional British favourites from fish and chips, classic burgers, and a proper Sunday roast not to mention the Lion Wraps which are Yorkshire puddings filled with roast beef or ham with stuffing onions and a pot of gravy for dipping.

When is the White Lion Coaching House, Stockport open?

The White Lion is now open Sun-Thurs 11.00-23.00, Fri-Sat 11.00-00.00

You can find them here 20 Great Underbank, Stockport SK1 1LW

You can find out more about the White Lion Coaching House by clicking here