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The team behind Salford’s beloved Black Friar set to take over popular Chorlton pub

Two historic hospitality heritage sites should make a happy marriage.

Danny Jones - 5th August 2025

The talented culinary team behind the stunning Black Friar pub in Salford are set to take over a new site at a historic old pub in Chorlton: the beloved Horse and Jockey.

As one of the longest-standing and most charming spots on Chorlton Green, The Horse and Jockey public house dates all the way back to 1512 and has remained a regular watering hole for native boozers since the 19th century.

Having been operated by legendary local beermasters, Joseph Holt Brewery, from 2012 onwards, it’s remained a popular spot for generations of punters and ‘The Inn of the Green’ is still the go-to for so many of those who live and work nearby.

Nevertheless, The Horse and Jockey is now set to be taken over by the duo who rebooted a fellow site of Manc hospitality heritage are turning their attention to a new gastropub project.

Announcing the redevelopment plans at the start of this month, owner Neil Burke and Executive
Chef Ben Chaplin is set to oversee the next chapter for the 200-year-old community pub.

The current Black Friar team has been in place for just over four years now and has very quickly turned what used to be a casual working men’s boozer into a lovingly restored English pub and restaurant with a beautiful outdoor terrace and back garden.

Known for classic but elevated pub grub, proper homemade pies, regularly rotating seasonal menus, a carefully curated cocktail and drinks menu, along with the elegant updated interior, it’s come a long way from its rebirth in 2021.

Having proved their revitalising powers with the Grade II-listed building, which had sat derelict for more than a decade and a half, Burke is using his experience and knowledge as a local resident of the central Manchester suburb to bring a new lease of life to The Horse and Jockey.

Formerly a regional manager of the Jamie Oliver Restaurant Group, before teaming up with Chaplin to take on their own challenge, Chorlton Green’s treasured public house has been something he’s dreamed about for some time.

Speaking on the upcoming overhaul, Neil said: “Myself and Ben are champing at the bit to get the Horse and Jockey living up to its full potential. As with the Black Friar, we want to create a pub that heavily focuses on great British produce in a beautiful environment.

“We’re over the moon to be taking on a true suburban gem that’s all about the community. The Horse and Jockey will be a place where everyone is welcome, whether they’re popping in for a pint, having a roast after a leisurely Sunday walk, or throwing a bash to celebrate a milestone.”

Set to reopen following a major revamp this autumn, Joseph Holt will continue to run the cherished Chorlton pub in the interim while the refurbishments are completed.

Those passionate about keeping that authentic, traditional feel will also be glad to hear that original features like the bright white visage, wooden beams will be kept intact and complemented by a stripped-back decor, heritage colours and more cosy furnishings.

Looking to make this a more dining-led venue than just another bar that happens to serve food, they promise all the usual pub grub favourites, premium á la carte dishes, weekly specials and “a fresh take on The Black Friar’s legendary Sunday roasts.”

Better yet, there’ll still be Holt ales to be enjoyed as well as a new dedicated wine list designed specifically to pair with the new foodie lineup.

We can’t wait to see how it turns out, and you keep your eyes peeled HERE for more updates.

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• Inside The Faraday Pub, the Northern Quarter’s newest boozer

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Featured Images — Adam Bruderer (via Flickr)/Press shots (supplied)