The Ring O’ Bells in West Kirby stands out on the Wirral Peninsula, blending a rich history with a fresh, modern vibe. This traditional British pub in the heart of West Kirby offers hearty food, a great range of drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere that draws in both locals and visitors. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick pint after a beach walk or settling in for a whole Sunday roast, this pub has something for everyone. This 2000-word article, written in simple British English, dives into everything you need to know about the Ring O’ Bells West Kirby.
What Is the Ring O’ Bells, West Kirby?
The Ring O’ Bells is a classic pub at Village Road, West Kirby, Wirral, CH48 7HE. It’s a place where people go to enjoy tasty food, refreshing drinks, and good company. Recently spruced up with a big refurbishment, it mixes old-school charm with a modern feel. Stange & Co, a local group known for managing friendly, community-focused pubs across the Wirral, runs the pub. The name “Ring O’ Bells” hints at a traditional British custom, possibly tied to church bells or bell-ringing, giving it a historical touch.
This pub is a hit with many people—locals popping in for a drink, families grabbing a meal, or tourists exploring West Kirby. It’s got indoor seating, a garden room, and an outdoor terrace, so it works for any occasion. If you search for “Ring O’ Bells West Kirby location” or “best pubs in Wirral,” you’ll likely find it popping up.
A Look Back: The History of the Ring O’ Bells
The Ring of the Bells has been around for over 200 years, with records going back to at least 1810. It started as a small pub on the same site, making it one of West Kirby’s oldest drinking spots. Over the decades, plenty of changes have been seen. Different owners have come and gone, and it’s had its share of updates. In the 1980s, it was known for pouring Whitbread beers, a popular choice back then. By the 1990s, it briefly switched its name to Loch Fyne, but locals weren’t keen, and it went back to Ring O’ Bells by 2012.
In 2020, Stange & Co took over and gave it a big makeover. They kept the pub’s traditional roots but added modern bits like a new garden room and a bigger outdoor area. Now, it’s a perfect mix of history and today’s comforts. People searching “Ring O’ Bells history” or “West Kirby pub heritage” often want to know about its long past.
Where Is It? Exploring West Kirby
West Kirby is a lovely little town on the Wirral Peninsula, famous for its sandy beaches and gorgeous views across the Dee Estuary. It’s a top pick for anyone who loves a seaside stroll or a bit of fresh air. The Ring O’ Bells sits right on Village Road, smack in the middle of town, making it easy to find. It’s a great stop to explore West Kirby’s highlights, like the beach, the marine lake, or the old St. Bridget’s Church.
Getting there is a breeze. It’s just a short walk from West Kirby train station, which links to Liverpool and other Wirral spots. If you’re driving, there’s a big free car park out back—a real bonus in a busy town. Searches like “pubs near West Kirby beach” or “West Kirby attractions” often point people straight to the Ring O’ Bells.
Inside the Pub: The Atmosphere
Walking into the Ring of the Bells feels warm and friendly. The inside mixes old pub features—like wooden beams and snug corners—with newer touches, like the bright garden room. This glass-walled space looks out over the terrace and garden, letting in loads of light and giving it a fresh, open feel. The decor is simple but comfy, designed to make you feel at home.
There’s a spot for everyone here. The bar area is lively, the dining section is perfect for meals, and the garden room suits anyone who likes a bit of sunshine. Outside, the terrace is excellent for warm days, with plenty of tables and a chilled-out vibe. If you’re searching “Ring O’ Bells West Kirby atmosphere” or “cosy Wirral pubs,” you’ll get a good sense of what it’s like.
What’s on the Menu?
The Ring O’ Bells is all about good, honest food and a cracking selection of drinks. The menu sticks to British pub classics but throws in some seasonal twists made with fresh, local ingredients. Here’s a rundown of what you can tuck into:
Food Options
- Classic Dishes: Think fish and chips with crispy batter, juicy burgers, or meaty pies. The Sunday roast is a big draw, piled high with roasties, gravy, and Yorkshire puds.
- Seasonal Treats: The menu changes depending on the time of year—lighter bites like salads in summer or hearty stews in winter.
- Small Bites: Do you fancy sharing? There’s stuff like loaded fries, crispy calamari, or nachos to nibble on.
The food is straightforward but tasty, with mains costing between £12 and £20. To find out more, people often search “Ring O’ Bells menu” or “West Kirby pub grub.”
Drinks Line-Up
The bar’s got something for everyone:
- Real Ales: They rotate local and national ales, ideal for beer fans.
- Lagers and Ciders: You’ll find premium picks like Paulaner lager and local ciders on tap.
- Wines and More: A decent wine list, gins, whiskies, and soft drinks round things out.
The staff knows their stuff and can suggest a drink to accompany your food. Look up “Ring O’ Bells drinks” or “best beer in West Kirby” for more.
Why Go to the Ring O’ Bells?
There’s loads to love about this pub. It’s a proper British experience with a modern edge—great food, plenty of drink choices, and a friendly feel. It’s dog-friendly, too, so your pup can tag along, and the free car park makes it dead easy to visit. It’s the perfect place to kick back after a walk on West Kirby Beach or a hike up Caldy Hill.
It’s a social spot, too, where locals chat with tourists over a pint. Whether a quick stop or a long lunch, it ticks all the boxes. Searches like “Ring O’ Bells West Kirby reviews” or “Things to Do in West Kirby” often rave about it.
Events at the Pub
The Ring O’ Bells isn’t an events hotspot every night, but it does host some fun stuff now and then. You might catch live music, a quiz night, or special dos like Christmas parties or summer barbecues. Check their website or social media for what’s on. It’s enough to keep things interesting without losing that relaxed pub vibe.
For bigger groups, you can book a private dining room upstairs for birthdays or get-togethers. Search “Ring O’ Bells events” or “West Kirby pub nights” to stay in the loop.
Is It Easy to Visit?
The pub’s set up for everyone. It’s got wheelchair access and a ground-floor loo, so it’s welcoming for all. Families fit right in, too—no kids’ menu, but the staff can tweak dishes for little ones. The outdoor space is brilliant for kids to stretch their legs, and the laid-back feel keeps it stress-free for parents.
If you’re looking for “Ring O’ Bells accessibility” or “family-friendly pubs West Kirby,” look up those terms.
What Do People Think?
Most folks rate the Ring of the Bells highly. On TripAdvisor, it’s got 3.5 out of 5 stars, with people loving the refurb and the friendly staff. One reviewer called it “a classic pub with a fresh look,” while another said it’s “spot-on after a seaside walk.” The food gets good marks for being hearty and well-cooked.
Some reckon it’s a bit pricey—a £6.50 pint of Paulaner has raised a few eyebrows, and a handful say the food’s nice but not mind-blowing for the cost. Still, the overall vibe keeps people coming back. Check “Ring O’ Bells West Kirby reviews” or “Wirral pub ratings” for the full scoop.
Top Tips for Your Visit
Are you planning to swing by? Here’s how to make it great:
- Book a Table online or call 0151 541 6966 for meals, especially at weekends. Walk-ins are OK for drinks.
- Best Times: It’s quieter midweek or in the afternoon—weekends get busy.
- Parking: The free car park is handy but fills up fast on sunny days.
- Dress: Keep it casual—no need to posh up.
Search “Ring O’ Bells West Kirby tips” or “Best time to visit Wirral pub” for more advice.
What’s Nearby?
West Kirby’s loads to see, and the pub’s a great base. Try these:
- West Kirby Beach: A 10-minute walk for a sandy stroll.
- Marine Lake: Close by for a walk or paddle.
- Caldy Hill: A short trip for cracking views.
Look up “things to do near Ring O’ Bells” or “West Kirby sights” for ideas.
Stange & Co: The People Behind the Pub
Stange & Co, which owns the Ring O’ Bells, knows their pubs. They run other Wirral favourites like the Fox & Hounds and Jug & Bottle, all about quality food and a warm welcome. Their knack for blending old and new shines through at the Ring O’ Bells, with fresh ingredients and a cosy setup.
Search “Stange & Co pubs” or “Ring O’ Bells owners” for more on them.
How Much Does It Cost?
It’s not the cheapest spot, but you get what you pay for. Pints range from £4 to £6, mains are £12 to £20, and starters or sides hover around £5 to £8. Some say it’s steep, but most think the quality matches the price. Check “Ring O’ Bells West Kirby prices” or “Wirral pub costs” for a heads-up.
Why It’s Worth a Trip
The Ring O’ Bells West Kirby nails the mix of old-school pub charm and modern comfort. The food is filling, the drinks are spot-on, and the vibe is just right. Its location in West Kirby makes it a must-visit, whether you’re a local or just passing through.
Wrapping Up: A West Kirby Gem
The Ring O’ Bells isn’t just a pub—it’s a slice of West Kirby’s story, updated for today. Its tasty grub, cosy garden room, and friendly feel make it a top pick for a good time. Next time you’re in town, pop in and see why it’s a Wirral favourite. Search “visit Ring O’ Bells West Kirby” or “top Wirral pubs” to plan your stop.
References
- TripAdvisor: “Ring O’ Bells West Kirby Reviews” (tripadvisor.com)
- Ring O’ Bells Site: “Food & Drink” (ring-o-bells.co.uk)
- Stange & Co: “Our Pubs” (stangeandco.co.uk)
