Owd Betts

After a walk around a local reservoir, Michael B. and I headed here for some grub and a pint to warm us up. We were warmly welcomed and a table was sought for us, despite it being a busy Sunday. The staff were fantastic — nothing was too much bother and they didn’t seem flustered by the waves of people coming in the door. Clearly it is popular with the locals and walkers who are heading out in to the dales.
We went for a pie of the day — steak and peppercorn. They were HUGE but we scoffed them down, along with massive chips, some buttery vegetables and excellent gravy. It was hearty and wholesome and definitely a place to come back to.

A charming and popular pub full of character which serves up decent beers as well as homemade hearty dishes — if you’re off out for a walk in the ‘Rochdale uplands’ then a trip to Owd Betts should be your reward.
It was originally built way back in 1796, so expect low wooden beams, lots of exposed brick and cosy fireplaces in every dining space. The bar is well stocked and as well as three regular beers they have guests from the likes of Phoenix (a brewery based in nearby Heywood).
Lots of choice on the food menu, with everything from soup of the day right through to steaks and roasts. Have a look on their specials board for the pie of the day — we had steak and pepper which was not only delicious, but was practically the size of a saucer and coupled with chunky chips, veg and gravy left us unable to talk, let alone get up out of our seats afterwards.
Service was friendly throughout and despite us turning up without a reservation (it might be an idea to book a table on weekends) we were seated and served without too much of a wait for our orders.
A tip for winter — the pub lacks a porch door, so if you’re sitting in this section expect the occasional draught when the door opens. We were well hard and braved it ;)
When the weather is more pleasant they have a decent-​sized beer garden at the back. If their small car park is full there are plenty of spaces in the layby directly across the road.

We called one Friday afternoon for some lunch and it was absolutely fantastic. Can’t wait to call again. i would recommend to anyone.

First time in Ramsbottom and visited this lovely little pub. The food was absolutely amazing and each member of our party said this to the couple behind the bar.
The steak is cooked to perfection, the chips are homemade chunky pieces of heaven.
In good company or stopping by whilst going on a stroll I would always pop into this gem.

I love going to this quaint, out-​on-​the moors, privately owned pub. the atmosphere is always friendly and the staff, though frequently busy, are attentive and pleasant. you get what you pay for and the prices are rather high. quality is good though and the pub is well worth a visit.
July 2012: now under new ownership.

Sat overlooking Heywood and Bury on the moors above, Owd Betts has an old English country pub welcome to it.
It could be cosier inside however and it just made up of tables and (not the most comfy) chairs without too much character which is expected these days in country inns.
The food is typical pub food; some dishes are very good, some are quite average.
Try to avoid the nights with entertainment though, a solo guitarest/​singer seems to be a regular booking and while his off key voice provides a few giggles at first, the novelty soon wears off and gets quite embaressing!