Macclesfield: Meet the new publican in at The Silk Trader

By Alex Greensmith

2nd Oct 2023 | Local News

Macclesfield resident Zak Watson has taken on his second pub in the town. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)
Macclesfield resident Zak Watson has taken on his second pub in the town. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

An east Macclesfield pub has a new publican behind the pumps.

Macclesfield resident Zak Watson has took over The Silk Trader.

Zak, who also runs The Ivy Leaf in Ivymeade, had his first day at The Silk Trader on Monday October 2.

The pub, of 37 Brook Street, can seat 50 people indoors plus a unique outdoor beer garden. And Zak has big plans for the pub.

The Silk Trader is located on 37 Brook Street. The pub also backs on to Cawley Street. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

"I moved to Macc two years ago, and it was the first pub that I drank in when I came to Macc.", he said.

"And it is one I've always wanted. I went for it when it came up, not thinking I'd get it, but I've been lucky enough to get it and here we are."

Zak has already brought community pub vibes to The Ivy Leaf on Ivy Road, and wants to bring same skillset to The Silk Trader.

"The plan is to have both pubs working together", said Zak.

As well as having pub games, the Macclesfield pub also shows live sports. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

"So we will have shared competitions, events, pool teams or darts teams going to each pub.

"But other than that we're not coming in to change things, for example, the quiz and bingo night will stay the same on a Tuesday.

"We are coming in because we feel it is a really good opportunity, and we want to make sure it stays in good hands and stays running as it is."

The Silk Trader boasts 11 separate drinks on tap, and it is not just Macclesfield's fabric history the pub is proud of, as they are proud sellers of Macclesfield's Forest Gin as well. 

The current cask ales. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

The pub is furnished with quirky nods to Macclesfield's silk industry heritage, with looms dangling from the ceiling and a silk moth mural outside.

You can't help but crack a smile at this attention to detail, including the bathrooms, which adds a fake moustache in the gents loos for example.

The Silk Trader is owned by Robinsons Brewery, who have refurbished the pub in recent years.

The Silk Trader also does their bit for charity, with an East Cheshire Hospice charity pot right next to the draught beer. They also have posters up for 'SAVE DANES MOSS' in the toilets.

As well as sharing events across the two businesses, some staff will be shared across The Silk Trader and The Ivy Leaf. Furthermore, Zak is currently hiring at The Silk Trader. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

Another highlight is the function room, which can seat 60 and is famous for being where the Macclesfield charity Space4Autism was founded.

And there's altruism to the customers as well, as for Monday October 3 and Tuesday October 4 only, the pub is giving all customers 15% off all drinks.

More information on these discounted prices can be found HERE.

Zak will hope to offer this offer on the last Monday and Tuesday of every month, to help with the cost of living crisis.

The pub does food, is dog friendly, and has a large beer garden. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

"That is to try and relieve a bit of pressure, we know things are tough for people and they are feeling the pressure," explained Zak.

"So by doing this it keeps people coming out, and we are still getting a bit of business from it.

"We will also do charity events where the customers can decide who we will raise money for as well."

Macclesfield: You can follow The Silk Trader on Facebook.

The Robinsons pub's previous landlord and landlady was there for six years. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

See Also: Future of Poynton and Bollington tips in balance as consultation gets go-ahead

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