Every week we love to shine the spotlight on some of the best local venues that the borough has to offer, in our Pub of the Week feature.

This week we spoke to the landlady of Henighans BAR & Grill to see how business was going for them.

Name of the pub:

Henighans BAR & GRILL

Pub address: 

 71 Lever Street, Little Lever, Bolton BL3 1BA

Landlady name:

Emma Donahue

How long have you been the landlord/landlady for? And how much do you enjoy it?

I have been the landlady for two years, and I love the job, and seeing all my customers happy.

Read our top stories below:

The Bolton News: Give us some history about the pub:

The pub was built in the late 1800s, probably about 1890. In 2008 it was purchased by our current managing director and become part of the Henighans Limited Chain. The pub underwent a major refurbishment, and it was stripped back to the bare brickwork and re-modelled into a modern pub but retaining all its pub values. The pub has recently installed a kids play area in its outdoor beer garden, which can seat up to 100 people.

Is food served? If so, please describe it and any offers or if there are plans to in the future.

We have the most amazing chef and along with his team they have reached No1 on Tripadvisor for serving delicious quality meals at restaurant quality, but still at pub prices. Our Sunday roasts are two for £22, so you can guess we get very busy on a Sunday, and so reservations are advised, but all walk-ins are welcome.

The Bolton News: Is there a beer garden?

Yes, we have a huge beer garden with a kids play area. We host regular events in out beer garden throughout the summer months including kids party days with bouncy castles.

What is the most popular drink served and why?

Oh, our range of drinks are all popular from Carling to Peroni on draft, to our two for £12 cocktails. 

What is the most memorable moment at the pub?

New Year's Eves are the most memorable moments at the pub. The place is packed and it’s great to see everyone having a fantastic time with our live music, and all ready to bring in the New Year. 

Do you have an entertainment line-up?

We have karaoke every Friday night with an open mic night at the end of the month, also on a Friday. On Saturday nights we have live singers and tributes which we have had on since opening in 2009. The pub is packed for these nights and every gig is free to watch. 

The Bolton News: What are the biggest challenges within the industry or your pub and how can you overcome them?

Energy costs are huge at the moment but are slowly falling. The financial pressure has been horrendous, but with the continued support of all amazing customers we continue to go from strength to strength. 

What is the best thing about running a pub and why?

It’s a challenging job living above a pub and operating it on a daily basis but the best thing about running the pub is the enjoyment I get from watching all our happy customers having a great time.

What is the worst thing about running a pub and why?

There isn’t one to be honest, it’s just a pure pleasure to serve our amazing community.


If you have a story and something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at jasmine.jackson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @JournoJasmine.