Woodman is a Claymore Taverns traditional pub serving real ales and a large selection of gins. It re- opened in October 2018 after lying derelict for 10 years.
The pub always known locally as the Woodman, was previously an Irish Theme Pub 'Scruffy Murphys' in 2000 and later became 'No 3'
The interesting pub sign located above the door is in the form of a large relief depicting a man in brown clothing holding in an axe, against a background of trees and foliage.
The word 'WOODMAN' appears on a scroll in the upper left corner. (
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"Internally, the pub comprises four different areas that extend around the bar in a lazy L-shape; two areas reach back towards the toilets, while a small snug behind the bar completes the picture." (
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A report about the pub, by Aimi Redfern appeared in The Sentinel on 19th October 2018.
The report reads as follows;
"This pub is back open after TEN YEARS lying derelict - and it has been totally transformed
The Woodman in Hanley has returned to its original name after being occupied by several nightclubs in recent years.
A city centre pub has been given a new lease of life after spending 10 years lying derelict.
The Woodman in Hanley has reopened as a traditional pub, serving real ales and a large selection of gins.
The Old Hall Street venue had been home to various nightclubs in recent years before being left empty for a decade.
It has been transformed by Caldmore Taverns - which has bought and refurbished several pubs in the area - and returned to its original name.
Guy Thorburn, from Leek, has taken the helm and is looking forward to welcoming new punters through the doors.
The 52-year-old said: "Caldmore Taverns have totally renovated the place from top to bottom and the upstairs has been turned into flats.
"I have been involved for about four months so I have watched it come on and it has been marvellous seeing the progress.
"Now it's finished I think it's beautiful. I love it, it feels like such a comfortable pub."
The building was bought by developer Realis Estates 10 years ago, when it was looking to redevelop the old bus station site. But when those plans floundered, Realis sold the property earlier this year.
Steve said: "I'm feeling really positive about the pub's future. It may take a few weeks or months but once we've built up a reputation I think it will fly.
"We've got eight real ales - four or five of which are locally brewed - two craft ciders, 21 gins and a nice selection or whiskies and bourbons, plus all your regular drinks.
"In the next few weeks we are looking to start doing light bites and we will have some entertainment, like acoustic acts and open mic nights."
The pub opens at midday and is licensed to open until midnight during the week and 1am at the weekend.
Lee Dyson, who lives in Hanley, has taken on the role of assistant manager. The 49-year-old said: "I've lived in Hanley just over four years and I've never known this place as a pub, it's always been a derelict building.
"I was working in Crewe and wasn't looking for another job but when I saw they were advertising for staff here it was ideal for me.
"I think the transformation is wonderful. We have not had any bad feedback at all - everyone is saying how nice it is to have a traditional pub here. The clientele we are getting in are lovely."
Customers Steve and Hilary Darmon took two buses to get to the Woodman from their home in Bradwell. Steve, aged 65, said: "I first came in on Saturday and I was so impressed with it. It's marvellous - they've done a really good job of it.
"Best of all they've got good beer on."
Hilary, aged 66, added: "I think it's lovely. It's worth catching two buses to get here."