History of the Blue Bell
Although no-one knows exactly when the Blue Bell sold its first pint, it has been serving the old boating community of Hardingswood for at least 130 years. It is known as “the pub on an island” as you have to cross water to reach it, either the Trent & Mersey Canal at the front or the Macclesfield Canal at the rear.
Follow the link to learn about The Early Years, when three plots of land were joined together to form the site on which the Blue Bell now stands.
Then read about The 20th Century, a time of change. During this time the pub was run by one family for many years, and then underwent various changes before becoming today’s successful free house.
Photos on the right (top to bottom):
A 165-year old lease relating to the pub;
Outside the pub in the 1930’s;
Plant’s Locks in 1910;
A similar view in 2005
