The Hillary Step is a pub in Chorlton, Manchester. Rated 4.6 stars from 460 Google reviews. Known for rotating craft beer selection and knowledgeable, friendly staff. Best for beer enthusiasts and local catch-ups.
Rankings updated May 2026
The Hillary Step
Quick Verdict
Chorlton's best-kept pub secret: serious beer credentials, zero pretension, staff who actually know what they're pouring.
You want a well-kept pub with rotating craft beers and genuine local warmth in south Manchester.
About The Hillary Step
The Hillary Step is a neighbourhood pub in Chorlton that has earned consistent praise for its curated beer selection and welcoming atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the rotating range of draught and cask beers—from accessible pints like Jaipur under £5 to sought-after hazy IPAs—alongside knowledgeable, friendly staff who make regulars and newcomers feel equally at home. The front beer garden provides a natural gathering point, while the interior delivers the warm, traditional pub vibe that locals return for. Positioned at #12 in the Chorlton hot-list, it stands out among south Manchester's drinking establishments for consistency: the beer list changes regularly, the atmosphere stays unpretentious, and the sense of community is palpable across every review.
What Stands Out
Rotating craft beer selection
Reviews consistently praise the changing range of draught and cask beers, from accessible Jaipur under £5 to rare hazy IPAs, with one reviewer calling it 'excellent beer' and another noting 'changed regularly.'
Knowledgeable, friendly staff
Multiple reviewers describe staff as 'lovely', 'friendly', 'knowledgeable', and 'welcoming'—creating an atmosphere where both newcomers and regulars feel at home.
Traditional pub atmosphere with beer garden
Reviewers highlight the 'warm traditional pub atmosphere', 'great local vibe', and 'great beer garden out the front', making it a natural gathering point for south Manchester.
Practical Information
Contact
199 Upper Chorlton Rd, Whalley Range, Manchester M16 0BH, United Kingdom
+44 161 881 1978Visit WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions about The Hillary Step
The pub stocks a rotating selection of draught and cask beers, ranging from accessible pints like Jaipur (under £5) to craft options including hazy IPAs. The list changes regularly, so there's always something new to discover.
Yes. Reviewers describe it as a 'great catch-up spot' with a welcoming, unpretentious local vibe. The beer garden out front and warm interior make it ideal for groups or solo drinkers alike.
The Hillary Step is primarily a drinks-focused pub. One reviewer noted they didn't try food, suggesting the focus is on beverages rather than a full dining menu.
Yes. Reviewers consistently praise the staff as 'knowledgeable' and 'friendly', with one calling them 'excellent'. They clearly understand the beer selection and can guide you through the options.
Also in Chorlton
View all11 venues changed rank in Chorlton this week → See full zone ranking
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Rankings are recalculated monthly from live Google Business Profile data. Our Hot Score weighs review velocity (new text reviews in 90 days), recency (how fresh), baseline rating, and Google Business Profile completeness. No editorial picks, no paid placements — just what the data says this month.
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