Broken Cross pub on Trent and Mersey Canal reopens after refurbishment

The Broken Cross in Rudheath has welcomed punters once more, having shut for over a month.

Alongside all the changes is a new team at the helm in the form of husband and wife, Rob and Sammi Garland.

Sammi said: “The changes to the Cross are amazing, it’s created a bigger games area with a fresh new look throughout, without changing how it felt.

“We are so happy with how it has turned out, it is even better than we thought it would be!

“Since opening on Thursday (October 1) we have received great feedback from all our guests, new and old.

“It’s been made more modern without compromising the overall feel of the pub.

“We are so happy to be back open.”

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The new games area at the Broken Cross (Image: Supplied)

The Broken Cross, which overlooks the Trent and Mersey Canal, recently became part of Greene King’s new Hive Pubs franchise scheme.

As part of this, the pub chain promised ‘significant investment’, with the refurbishment getting underway on September 2.

Rob and Sammi worked at the pub for six years under the previous owners and now take over as the landlords.

Th Broken Cross holds a special place in their heart, having been the scene of their first date.

“I’ve lived in Northwich since 2009 and Rob’s lived here all his life. He actually had his 21st birthday in the Cross,” said Sammi.

“We also had our first date there so it means so much more to us than just a pub.”

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The pub was closed for over a month as the refurbishment took place (Image: Supplied)

One of the pub’s oldest regulars, John, was invited down on Thursday (October 10) to cut the ribbon following the refurbishment.

It’s fair to say the changes, including a new games room and a new menu, have gone down well.

Damian Murray, whose band KAOS will play at the venue on October 26, said: “Huge congratulations on your re-opening. A new chapter to what is already a great local establishment.

“Great food and beverages. The most friendly of welcomes. Live music at its best. Keep it live…keep it real and keep it local.”

Gracie May, who enjoyed a meal at the Cross on Friday, said: “Love the feel of the place, looking forward to cozy meals over the winter and some sunshine and fizz when the warmer weather returns!”

Another customer, Irene Garland, added: “The whole pub looks fantastic but still kept the essence of he Broken Cross!”

Landlord Sammi Garland is pleased the pub has been able to keep its character (Image: Supplied)