The Nelly is a great wedding cake of a building, something akin to a French château, and quite unlike any other building locally. Built as a hotel in 1805, it became a pub around 1877 when it was rebuilt "with modern notions of capacious elevations and luxury". During the 19th century it also served as a courthouse for the Manor of Urmston. It is a striking sight, particularly after dark when the floodlights are on.

Entering from the main road, there are two cosy rooms with soft lighting on each side, a three-sided “peninsular” bar, a middle room with brighter lights, a Spartan vault with darts area, and a small beer garden. The furniture is mostly bench seating around the walls, supplemented with tables, stools and a few high chairs around equally high tables. It is very much a drinker’s pub, the only food being crisps and nuts.

During the day the pub is a quiet, relaxing place, but that all changes when there are big football matches on (the pub broadcasts Sky, BT and Prime games on TVs in every room). Tuesday night features a very popular quiz (from about 9.30), and Saturday night has the famous Disco Nelly in the vault.

The Nelly and its long serving licensees are deservedly famous for their fundraising activities on behalf of local charities like The Christie cancer centre. This is one of many reasons why the local branch has voted it as Branch Community Pub of the Year on several occasions.

Please note that the pub has a strict age policy – over 18 years of age only, in all areas.

If you use a wheelchair, you'll find access is easier through the side door from the car park. Unfortunately there is still no disabled toilet.

Dogs are generally welcome but may be upset by the noise and crowds when big football matches are broadcast.