The Cracked Actor Bar is a bar in Stockport, Manchester. Rated 4.7 stars from 292 Google reviews. Known for craft beer selection that's curated, not just stocked and genuine victorian character without the pretence. Best for craft beer exploration and small groups.
Rankings updated April 2026
The Cracked Actor Bar
Quick Verdict
Locals return because it's genuinely independent, the beer selection actually matters, and the vibe doesn't pretend to be anything it isn't. It's not trying to be a gastropub or an Instagram moment.
You want a proper craft beer selection in a room with actual character and staff who know what they're pouring.
About The Cracked Actor Bar
The Cracked Actor Bar is a small, character-filled craft beer bar tucked into Little Underbank in Stockport. It's split across two levels (mind the steep stairs) with original Victorian features and a tight, bijou layout that rewards a slow drink rather than a quick one. The draw is the rotating keg selection—reviewers consistently praise the craft ale and stout range, with a chalkboard listing names and ABV so you're not guessing at strength. A pint of Lumina IPA from Siren brewery runs £5.50. There's no real ale on tap, but the bottle selection and small spirits range fill the gaps. The atmosphere is laid-back and cosy; staff are friendly, music's on point, and the crowd skews towards groups and locals rather than the Deansgate tourist circuit. It's the kind of place that gets better as the night fills up.
What Stands Out
Craft beer selection that's curated, not just stocked
Multiple reviewers specifically mention 'great selection of craft ales and stout' and praise the chalkboard listing names and strength. One regular noted a pint of Lumina IPA from Siren brewery at £5.50, suggesting the selection rotates and includes recognisable independent breweries.
Genuine Victorian character without the pretence
Reviewers describe 'original victorian features' and 'bijou' space with 'lots of character.' One noted the steep stairs and two-level layout as part of the charm rather than a complaint, and another said 'More of this kind of venue in Underbank would greatly increase its appeal.'
Friendly staff and a laid-back crowd
Reviews consistently praise 'friendly staff' and 'great music,' with one noting 'One of the best pubs to visit for atmosphere and service.' The atmosphere is described as 'Laid back' and 'cosy,' attracting groups and locals rather than passing tourists.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Contact
28 Little Underbank, Stockport SK1 1JT, United Kingdom
FacebookFrequently Asked Questions about The Cracked Actor Bar
Keg beers on tap with a chalkboard listing names and ABV, plus bottles and a small spirits range. No real ale. A pint runs around £5.50 (Siren's Lumina IPA as an example), and the selection rotates with independent breweries like Siren featured.
Yes, dogs are allowed.
No. It's a drinks-only bar—bring your own appetite elsewhere or settle in for a long conversation.
Small and split across two levels with steep stairs connecting them. Original Victorian features and lots of character, but genuinely bijou—it's not a sprawling pub. Ground floor seating is available if stairs aren't your thing.
One reviewer noted it was quiet when they visited but reckoned it'd be 'a cracking little spot when it gets going.' It's full by evenings and weekends with groups and locals.
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