About the brewery

After reaching the age of 50 and having worked in various managerial roles in a number of breweries, Stewart decided it was time to take a gamble and realise a dream by starting his own brewery. The first step was to purchase a suitable microbrewery which he did in December 2000 and then he needed to find suitable premises. After visiting several potential sites, what seemed like an ideal spot came up at the Worthington Lakes industrial complex.

Wigan and District has had many breweries in the past, the closest being the breweries at Haigh and Almonds in the centre of Standish. For 30 years or so there has been no local brewery and Stewart, being a real ale fanatic, saw the need for a microbrewery to serve Wigan and District. Since the capacity of the plant is quite small, the aim is to serve local pubs within a small radius of Wigan, with quality real ale. So far the project has met with much support and enthusiasm from local drinkers.

Due to the demolition of the original premises at the Bleachworks site, the brewery has been relocated to the Royal Oak in Wigan. The original vessels and casks are still used, although the premises are much smaller. At present, Stewart is mainly supplying the Royal Oak but has also sold to the Beeches, Dog and Partridge and Crown Hotel in Standish.

On Wednesday 7 July, CAMRA members and locals of the Oak tasted four of Stewart's trial brews to find a suitable regular beer which will only be supplied to the Oak. Drinkers are also trying to come up with a suitable name for their regular beer. Any ideas?

Photos

Stewart

Mash tun

Fermenting vessels