The Royal Oak was built in the early 17th Century and is now a listed building. It has always been a landmark pub on the pub circuit due to being situated on the A49, its close proximity to Wigan town centre, its two railway stations and bus station. Until recently when the Rugby League club moved to a new stadium it was well known also by thousands of Rugby League fans from all over the north of England and beyond.

The pub is now a totally free house and is home to the newly reopened Mayflower Brewery located at the rear of the pub. It has up to ten real ales a week including two beers brewed exclusively for the pub by Stewart Thompson of the Mayflower Brewery, and also has traditional ciders, and imported beers and lagers on draft including Leffe, Antoon Blonde, Erdinger Weiss, Budvar Red Erik and Liefmans as well as a range of imported bottled beers.

There is no pool table, Sky Sports, big screen TV or juke box. No smoking inside the pub, but a smoking area is available outside.

The Royal Oak enjoys a cross-section of all age groups and consequently on occasions has music from live bands including Blues, Folk, Jazz, Cajun and Brass. In addition there are a number of events throughout the year featuring food and music.

The pub has a large beer garden which catches the sun (when it's out) all day and can cater for BBQs and private functions and meetings for up to 30 people. Food is not served every day at present.

A fair description (coined by regulars) is 'An activity centre for middle-aged hippies and discerning beer drinkers of all ages'.