December - Runaway Brewery Tap
The Pub of the Month for December is a complete contrast to November’s winner – the Runaway Brewery Tap on Astley Street, off Heaton Lane, writes John Clarke.
After three trial openings in December last year, the Runaway Brewery Tap, based along with the brewery in a former sheet metal works, opened to great acclaim in mid-April. And, it’s safe to say, it has been an immediate hit.
News that Runaway Brewery was relocating from its previous home in central Manchester to a site in Stockport was greeted with much anticipation by local beer fans, as the brewery had built an enviable reputation for its beers. Interest was heightened by the news that the new location would include a brewery tap – and one that would be open for more than the Saturdays-only operation at the Manchester site.
What we have is a skilful conversion of old industrial premises into a bright and modern bar which, nonetheless, also manages to feel comfortable and pub-like. The furniture is modern and functional, but clever lighting, plants and statement lamps soften the appearance to good effect. The brewery can be seen through glass panels, while outside is a large and secluded beer garden, where you will find Honest Crust Pizza providing excellent food.
So what about the beer? Almost all Runaway beer is keg-conditioned, and so ‘real ale’, but the relocation to Stockport prompted a greater move into cask, in recognition of local drinking preferences. Consequently, there are two changing handpumped beers alongside the keg range. In addition, there is a large fridge with a bottle and can range, put together by Manchester’s Beermoth shop.
It’s still a bit of a work in progress – there’s a large upstairs space which will be brought into use, and where tutored tastings have already been held. The Tap is also surrounded by building works at the moment, with the Weir Mill development across the road, and the new transport interchange nearby. Completion of these will doubtless boost the already busy trade.
The Runaway Tap opens at 1pm Thursday to Saturday, closing at 10pm on Thursdays and 10:30 on Friday and Saturday. Do come along to our presentation on Thursday 28 December when we present our award to brewery owner Mark Welsby, his partner Sam and their hard-working team.