A 1982 Bluebird American school bus imported directly from Arizona is now operating as a fully equipped kitchen in Greater Manchester. At The Old School BBQ Bus, the classic yellow vehicle forms the centrepiece of a covered dining space dedicated to authentic Texas-style barbecue and low-and-slow cooking.
Owner and pitmaster Mark Fairley prepares a menu centred around traditional smoked meats and rich glazes. The kitchen’s standout offerings include a prime Black Angus brisket smoked for 16 hours, an apricot-glazed pork belly, and peach barbecue baby back ribs. Diners looking to sample the full range can order the pit master tray, a massive platter loaded with ribs, brisket, pulled pork, flame-grilled chicken wings, corn on the cob, baked beans, and garlic toast.
Award-winning Texan menu
The operation has secured four consecutive Good Food Award Gold Seals for its hearty portions and traditional preparation methods. Fairley’s barbecue recently gained national television exposure when he showcased his school-bus-to-table concept on Channel 4’s Come Dine With Me: The Professionals.
Beyond the large meat platters, the converted bus serves up bowls of loaded macaroni and cheese topped with pulled meat and thick pickle slices. The surrounding dining area leans into a Southern Americana aesthetic, outfitted with wooden tables, string lights, a dartboard, and screens broadcasting rodeo events.
Alongside the extensive barbecue menu, the bar pours brightly layered cocktails. The Chadderton venue regularly pairs its dining experience with live music and local events, providing a lively destination for local smokehouse enthusiasts.
📍Old School BBQ, Alford Street, Hollingwood, Chadderton, OL9 7LP.
