093. Dukes 92, Castle Street

Dukes 92, Castle Street, 2010. (c) Pubs of Manchester.

I suppose we should have had this as our 92nd pub but anyway, this was a pleasant start to our ton-up. Surprisingly, Dukes serves reasonably priced ale from traditional glass tankards with a decent selection of three, including the local Bazens of Salford which can be hit-and-miss, but on this occasion was OK. Careful though, it appears that no ale is on offer as their hand pumps aren't clipped and look like lager switches with their beer list printed on tiny signs on the bar - they should promote their real ale better than that. It is quite plush inside and is clearly aiming for for the more upmarket and food and wine punters that both flock to Castlefield at the weekend and live in the multitude of flats that haves sprung around here.

Dukes 92, Castle Street, 2010. (c) Pubs of Manchester.

Dukes is named after the 92nd and last lock on the Rochdale canal (technically should have been No.1 but the tight-arsed Yorkshiremen who built the canal wouldn't let Lancashire have the honour of a No.1) and as such, its waterside location with accompanying terrace is a fine location for al fresco supping. It was originally a stable block for barge horses in the days when the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution relied on its canals to transport raw materials and goods to and from the city. In 1991 Dukes 92 opened as one of Manchester's first bar and grills and still thrives today with its private function rooms, gallery bar and adjoining restaurant, Albert's Shed. This place is the real survivor of Castlefield, with Jackson's Wharf, Box Bar and Quay Bar all closing over the years and Barca having mixed fortunes.

Dukes 92, Castle Street, 2010. (c) Pubs of Manchester.

Website: www.dukes92.com.