Hop to it: New idea brewing in Rochdale

The cask ale will be in pubs and bars across Rochdale from mid-August, with bottles also to be available in the coming months. It could be reaching drinkers in the capital too, with MP Paul Waugh hoping to get it on tap in London at Strangers’ Bar near the House of Commons in Westminster.

Exact details of the new beer including its name are still to be agreed, but it is likely to be a pale or golden ale, brewed with all British hops. The brewers joining forces to make the special edition beer are Wakey Wakey Brew Company, Twisted Mule Brewery, Brid’s Cross Brewing, the Serious Brewing Company and The Flying Horse Hotel.

Rochdale is Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture for 2025/26. The award by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority highlights the creativity and diversity of one of Greater Manchester’s towns, putting a spotlight on remarkable art, culture and heritage across the region. Rochdale’s year is building on the town’s rich cultural history and international reputation as the home of the co-operative movement with more than 35 arts organisations bringing together an ambitious programme of festivals, exhibitions, events and performances.

Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Janet Emsley and MP Paul Waugh visited the Wakey Wakey Brew Company in Rochdale this week to assist with the sampling process and discuss plans for the new tipple with some of the brewers involved, along with representatives from the Campaign for Real Ale’s (CAMRA) Rochdale, Oldham and Bury branch, and Rochdale Business Improvement District (BID) who are supporting it.

Coun Emsley said: “It’s great to see the spirit of co-operation alive and well here, with local brewers working together to create a new beer in honour of our status as Greater Manchester Town of Culture.”

Mr Waugh added: “This new beer will help us raise a glass to our roots, our pride, creative spirit and creativity as our wonderful town takes centre stage during this special year and I’m looking forward to trying the finished product when it’s ready.”

Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture is being delivered by Rochdale Borough Council and Rochdale Development Agency (RDA) in partnership with the borough’s arts community, supported by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and Arts Council England.

Find out more at www.rochdale.gov.uk/TownOfCulture