This pub dates back to 1552 when it was close to the old market which was the centre of the town at that time. It is the only remaining timber framed building typical of Manchester at that time. Despite its age it has been fairly mobile in recent times. Along with Sinclairs Oyster Bar it was raised on a concrete raft in a 1970's redevelopment of the old Shambles to make way for an underground access road. Both pubs moved again after the IRA bombing of 1996, this time about 120yards to their current location and reopened in 1999. Sensitive renovation was carried out during both moves. The pub has literally settled into its new location and sells up to eight real ales from its ground floor bar. There are two upper floors which are mainly given over to a popular restaurant operation although you are able to sit and drink upstairs if you wish. It shares a courtyard with Sinclair's next door but if you wish to drink outside you will often be required to use a plastic glass.