Affectionately known to locals as “The Pev,” Peveril of the Peak is one of Manchester’s most iconic and visually striking landmarks. Located on a “triangular island” on Great Bridgewater Street, it is a rare surviving example of a detached Victorian-era pub.
The pub dates back to approximately 1820, though its most famous features were added much later. There are two primary theories regarding its name. It is widely believed to be named after Sir Walter Scott’s longest novel, Peveril of the Peak (published in 1823), which references Peveril Castle in Derbyshire. Others suggest it was named after the Manchester-to-London stagecoach that shared the name and famously made the journey in just two days.
The pub is a Grade II listed building, primarily famous for its exquisite wraparound green and yellow tile work. Originally a simple brick building, the pub underwent an extensive remodeling around 1900. This added the vibrant ceramic tiling (faience) and the stained-glass windows that remain today.
While it was once part of a dense network of terraced houses and factories (including the Atlas Locomotive Works), urban development in the 20th century cleared the surrounding buildings. The Pev survived, leaving it isolated on its own small plot of land surrounded by modern office blocks.
The pub has accumulated a variety of colorful stories over its two-century history. The pub has been run by the same family since 1971. The landlady, Nancy Swanick, is a legendary figure in the Manchester pub scene, having lived above the bar for over 50 years. Local legend claims the pub was used as a brothel by G.I.s stationed in Manchester during World War II. Staff and regulars have reported various hauntings, including glasses “levitating” or moving toward the glass wash on their own, a spirit often described as “helpful.”
It has been a favorite haunt for various celebrities, most notably Manchester United legend Eric Cantona. It was also used as a filming location for the 1990s crime drama Cracker, starring Robbie Coltrane.
