Key Points
- The Bowling Green in Horwich has been named Pub of the Week by The Bolton News.
- The pub is renowned for its live acts, featuring top bands from across the North West every weekend.
- It fosters a strong community spirit where "everybody looks out for everybody".
- Monique Mackay, 58, is the licensee who took over the pub and emphasises its welcoming atmosphere.
- Located at 175 Lee Lane, Horwich, Bolton, Lancashire, BL6 7JD.
- Offers real ales, with CAMRA recognition as an accredited award-winning pub.
- Facilities include Sky TV, pool table, darts, and a family-friendly environment until 7pm.
- Regular events such as open mic nights hosted by Bryony Nolan, featuring music, comedy, poetry, and spoken word.
- Historic features like tiled walls, mosaic floors, and a traditional vault area popular with locals.
- Positive reviews highlight friendly staff, good drinks selection, and lively entertainment.
Horwich (Bolton Today) April 24, 2026 - The Bowling Green pub in Horwich has been crowned this week's Pub of the Week, celebrated for its vibrant live music scene and tight-knit community vibe where patrons genuinely look out for one another.
What Makes The Bowling Green Horwich's Pub of the Week?
As reported by staff writer at The Bolton News, the pub stands out for its live acts that draw crowds weekly. Monique Mackay, 58, the licensee who took over The Bowling Green, stated that
"everybody looks out for everybody"
in this welcoming spot. This accolade highlights its role as a cornerstone of local social life in Horwich.
The Bolton News coverage emphasises the pub's reputation for hosting top live bands from the North West every weekend, making it a go-to venue for music lovers. Skiddle's event listings confirm this, describing it as an
"Accredited and CAMRA Award Winning Pub, family friendly serving great Real Ales and with the top Live Bands from all over the North West playing every weekend."
Who is Behind The Bowling Green's Success?
Monique Mackay, 58, leads the team at The Bowling Green, having taken over operations and nurtured its community focus. As reported by Monique Mackay in The Bolton News, the pub thrives because "everybody knows everybody" and patrons actively support one another. Her stewardship has preserved its traditional charm while boosting entertainment.
Beer in the Evening notes the pub's management offers five casks of real ale and keeps it open late on weekends, calling it "a decent traditional pub... well worth a visit." CAMRA's profile credits the corner-site venue with historic tilework and three changing cask ales on handpumps.
Where Exactly is The Bowling Green Located?
The Bowling Green sits at 175 Lee Lane, Horwich, Bolton, Lancashire, BL6 7JD, near Blackrod (1.3 miles), Horwich Parkway (2 miles), and Adlington (2.4 miles). This prime position makes it accessible for locals and visitors alike.
TripAdvisor reviews place it among Horwich's top spots, ranked around 38th out of 79 restaurants with a 4.0 rating from 12 reviews. The venue's Facebook page promotes events like open mic nights starting at 7:30pm, hosted by Bryony Nolan, featuring music, comedy, poetry, and spoken word.
What Live Acts and Events Does It Host?
Live music defines The Bowling Green, with weekend bands pulling in crowds. Skiddle lists it as a key Bolton venue for upcoming events, confirming regular gigs at the 250-capacity bar/pub. As per the Facebook announcement,
"OPEN MIC NIGHT Tonight at The Bowling Green ⏰ From 7:30pm... Hosted by Bryony Nolan."
TripAdvisor users praise
"Great night out, live music and good bands,"
Noting that children are welcome till 7pm. The Bolton News underscores this as a core reason for its Pub of the Week status, with acts creating an electric atmosphere.
How Does the Community Atmosphere Feel?
The pub's mantra, as shared by Monique Mackay in The Bolton News, is a place where "everybody looks out for everybody," fostering genuine camaraderie. Reviewers on Beer in the Evening describe the vault area as "popular with locals," narrow yet cosy with green tiled dado walls.
CAMRA highlights its community role: "Corner-site community pub with historic tilework & mosaic floor." Tripadvisor echoes this, with comments on "good staff that are friendly and can have a good laugh with."
What Facilities and Drinks Are Available?
Real ales dominate, with CAMRA noting three handpumps and changing cask options. Beer in the Evening confirms five casks, Sky TV, and late weekend hours. TripAdvisor mentions "excellent selection of drinks," plus a pool table and darts.
Families appreciate the casual dress code and child-friendly policy until 7 pm, per Skiddle. The fully equipped setup suits all ages, much like nearby Horwich Community Centre's inclusive vibe, though distinct.
Why is Its History and Design Notable?
Historic elements set it apart, as CAMRA details:
"retaining a number of historic fittings and tilework... green tiled dado; more tiling... modest vestibule entrance with a partly visible mosaic floor."
This traditional aesthetic enhances its appeal.
Beer in the Evening calls it a "decent traditional pub," while Tripadvisor ranks it solidly in Horwich. The Bolton News' feature ties this heritage to its modern Pub of the Week honour.
What Do Reviewers and Locals Say?
TripAdvisor's 12 reviews average 4.0, with one stating:
"Great night out, live music and good bands. Excellent selection of drinks. Good staff... Pool table and darts too."
Beer in the Evening users recommend it for cask ales and late nights.
As reported in The Bolton News, the pub's community ethos resonates, with Monique Mackay noting mutual care among patrons. Facebook buzz around open mics shows ongoing enthusiasm.
When Are the Best Times to Visit?
Weekends shine for live bands, open late as per Beer in the Evening. Open mic nights start at 7:30 pm, hosted by Bryony Nolan. Families should arrive before 7pm, per Tripadvisor.
Skiddle's event filter suggests checking for specific gigs. The Bolton News' timing aligns with this week's spotlight on 24 April 2026.
How Does It Compare to Other Horwich Pubs?
The Bowling Green edges out competitors with live acts and CAMRA status, unlike more generic spots. Tripadvisor ranks it 38th of 79, above average. Its community focus, as per Monique Mackay in The Bolton News, differentiates it.
CAMRA praises its unique tilework absent in newer venues. Reviewers favour its bands over standard pubs.