Cracked Actor • Stockport’s Newest Craft Ale and Blues Bar

Cracked Actor • Stockport’s Newest Craft Ale and Blues Bar

Underbank Revival Continues


The Cracked Actor is the latest addition to Stockport’s night time economy. Located amongst the ever changing landscape of Stockport Underbank, the bar owner Joe tells me “it’s all about helping Stockport become the place we all know it can be”. 

The beauty of Underbank is not to be understated. Yes, it has some buildings that need repairing but every week it feels like another business is setting up and helping in the regeneration.

The Cracked Actor is centred around craft ale, a wide range of gins and a blues atmosphere. The old large shop front windows create an incredible setting for a bar which allow visitors to feel almost part of the historic street outside.

The interior, whilst small, really uses the space brilliantly. It has the charm of always feeling busy. All of the work has been done by Joe and it has a sense of realness to it. Wooden floorboards, old loom tables for seating, copper containers, traditional chandelier lighting and vintage furniture – it all feels very rustic but contemporary at the same time.

The bar itself is spread over two floors with the bathroom being on the second. The history of the building is felt even more on the second floor by the original fireplace still standing proudly for all to admire. There is more seating available and some fantastic views from the bay windows.

We have to admit it was a big win for us knowing that Paulaner was available on draft. A draft beer not available in Stockport we are led to believe!

There are a number of interesting gins on the menu and some classic home brew. We have to admit it is hard to choose but there will always be quality advice given!

All we can say is is we are immensely grateful to all the work Joe has put in to create this new indie bar in the centre of town. If you are looking for another drinking hole The Cracked Actor must be on the list!

Find out more things to do in Stockport here.