Wakey Wakey Brew Co

Wakey Wakey Brew Co. began during the COVID-19 lockdowns as a homebrewing project created by Ant and Leanne in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. Like many people unable to visit their local pubs, the couple missed the atmosphere, social connections and enjoyment of a freshly poured pint. They decided to recreate some of that experience at home, building a garden bar and a purpose-made brewing shed where Ant could begin experimenting with beer production. What initially started as a hobby quickly developed into a more serious interest in brewing. By early 2021, Ant was refining his techniques with guidance from local brewer and consultant Rick Thomas, while Leanne helped shape the direction of the emerging business. Their shared ambition was to produce enjoyable, well-balanced beers while preserving the social character that had inspired the project.

In May 2022, Wakey Wakey received its licence to produce alcohol commercially, marking its transition from homebrewing project to independent brewery. That summer, its beers began appearing in pubs and bars across Greater Manchester, gradually building a following among local drinkers. The brewery's reach extended beyond the region, including an appearance at Nottingham's Robin Hood Beer & Cider Festival. By the end of 2022, demand and the founders' ambitions had outgrown the original garden brewing shed. A larger brewing system was purchased, and the search began for suitable commercial premises. Balancing brewing responsibilities with full-time employment made the expansion challenging, but the team remained committed to developing Wakey Wakey into a sustainable independent brewing business.

The next stage of the brewery's development came through an opportunity at The Flying Horse Hotel & Brewhouse in Rochdale, which offered space to accommodate the expanded brewing operation. During the transition, Whitworth Valley Brewing supported Wakey Wakey by allowing the team to continue producing beer while its new premises were being prepared. After an extended period of planning, construction and equipment installation, the brewery completed its first brew at The Flying Horse on 19 August 2024. The move represented an important milestone, providing a dedicated commercial brewing space and strengthening Wakey Wakey's connection to Rochdale's established pub and real ale community. From its new home, the brewery continued developing its core range while experimenting with seasonal releases, one-off beers and collaborations.

Today, Wakey Wakey Brew Co. concentrates on producing small-batch, handcrafted beers that combine modern, flavour-led brewing with traditional cask ale styles. Balance, drinkability and consistency remain central to its approach, with beers distributed to pubs and venues throughout Greater Manchester and further afield. Alongside its regular range, the brewery produces seasonal specials, collaborations and bespoke beers, occasionally serving ales from traditional wooden casks. Its connection with customers extends beyond wholesale distribution through a mobile bar and a brewery pop-up taproom, which opens for selected weekends, bank holidays and special events. Wakey Wakey has also introduced guided brewery tours and tastings, allowing visitors to explore the brewing process and sample beers at their source. From its beginnings in a garden shed to its current home at The Flying Horse, the brewery continues to reflect Ant and Leanne's original passion for good beer and bringing people together.