Manchester and Salford, two cities whose heritage is intricately entwined, are noted for their industrial history, and this book looks at their thriving brewing industry. The reader is taken on a journey of its development from the late eighteenth century to the present day. Key brewers in the locality, including Boddingtons, Wilsons, Joseph Holt, Groves & Whitnall and Threlfalls Chesters, are featured. This book also tells the story of the decline of the brewing industry in the region during the twentieth century, including the much-publicised takeover of Boddingtons and the closure of Strangeways Brewery, and the subsequent revival in the form of newly emerging microbreweries.

Deborah Woodman documents the region’s brewing history through a fascinating selection of rare images and informative text.

'The book should give the reader sufficient thirst to visit this great pub and enjoy its beers while also drinking in a bit of history as the city still proudly has Holt’s, JW Lees and Robinson’s producing beers worthy of exploration.' * Beer Insider, September 2024 *

Dr Deborah Woodman is a Research Development Officer at the University of Salford. Her research is focused around the history of the North West; the role of drink in society; commerce and trade; and popular politics of the nineteenth century. She has taught history at the Universities of Huddersfield, Salford and Manchester Metropolitan University.