Rochdale brewers join forces to create new beer for Town of Culture year

Wednesday, 23 July 2025 09:11

By David Murphy

Mayor of Rochdale councillor Janet Emsley and MP Paul Waugh with (back left to right: Domenico Iannidiaardi, Twisted Mule, Shaun O’Reilly, Brid’s Cross Brewing, Jon Hudson, The Flying Horse Hotel and Anthony Jones, Wakey

A group of Rochdale’s independent breweries are teaming up to produce a brand new ale celebrating the borough’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture, with the drink set to arrive in pubs this August.

Five local breweries have come together to craft a celebratory beer marking Rochdale’s new title as Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture for 2025/26. The beer, a pale or golden ale made with all-British hops, will be available on draught from mid-August, with bottled versions due later in the year.

Wakey Wakey Brew Company, Twisted Mule Brewery, Brid’s Cross Brewing, the Serious Brewing Company and The Flying Horse Hotel are collaborating on the limited edition ale, which has yet to be named.

There are also plans to take the Rochdale brew to Westminster. MP Paul Waugh is hoping to get the beer stocked in Strangers’ Bar at the House of Commons, giving politicians and staff a literal taste of Rochdale’s cultural credentials.

Councillor Janet Emsley, Mayor of Rochdale, and Mr Waugh visited Wakey Wakey Brew Company this week to help with early tastings and to discuss plans with the brewers. They were joined by members of CAMRA’s Rochdale, Oldham and Bury branch and the Rochdale Business Improvement District team, both of which are supporting the project.

Councillor Emsley said: “This is a brilliant example of Rochdale’s co-operative values in action. Our brewers are showing what can be achieved when local talent works together with pride.”

Mr Waugh added: “As our borough takes the spotlight this year, this beer is a great way to celebrate our history, creativity and sense of community. I can’t wait to see it being poured across our pubs, and hopefully in Parliament too.”

The beer is one of several creative projects planned during Rochdale’s year as Town of Culture. More than 35 local arts organisations are delivering a packed programme of events, exhibitions and performances. The celebrations aim to honour Rochdale’s past, including its role as the birthplace of the co-operative movement, while promoting new ideas and talent.

The cultural year is being coordinated by Rochdale Borough Council and Rochdale Development Agency in partnership with the borough’s arts sector, with backing from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Arts Council England.