The Spinning Mule

You walk into what feels like Bolton's most impressive dining room – soaring ceilings, original Victorian features, and enough space that you're not breathing down someone's neck whilst they tackle their mixed grill. This former department store has been given the full Wetherspoons treatment, but the bones of the building are so spectacular that even Tim Martin couldn't mess it up. The menu's exactly what you'd expect: reliable pub classics that won't break the bank, proper breakfast until noon, and pints that cost less than a fancy coffee elsewhere. It's busy with shoppers during the day and gets properly buzzy come evening, especially when there's football on. The staff keep things moving despite the crowds, and you'll always find somewhere to park yourself whether you're after a quick pint or settling in for the long haul.