TheNoiseThatWeMade

    Sheffield has over 12 microbreweries servicing the city, that’s more than Birmingham which has twice the size of population. Maybe it shows good Yorkshire folk are a little bit obsessed by beer. Not to mention a wealth of outstanding microbreweries only a short train ride away (and great for a day trip once you start to explore further afield) including Acorn in Barnsley, Thornbridge in Bakewell and Buxton Brewery in its namesake town.   There’s a tangible beer explosion going on in Yorkshire and Sheffield is a strong contender for the city of beer crown. You only have to look at the recent Camra Champion Beer of Britain for affirmation – Yorkshire brewery Elland took the ‘Champion Beer’ crown this year with their drinkable dark beast of a porter 1872. Kelham Island Brewery is often cited as one of Sheffield’s microbrewing forerunners, beginning brewing back in 1990, and it’s no surprise they’ve inspired younger craft breweries along the way such as the innov

    The Reader : Alan Tsang, account manager Why is this ‘Your Local’?   “It’s an unpretentious venue and a bit of an all-rounder with a late night speakeasy vibe. Live DJs and a dancing crowd on weekends are always guaranteed.”      Favourite tipple: Tiger Beer, 5% bottled pale lager.   The Local: Known as The Harley’s little sister, this pub doesn’t sit on their laurels and four years in they’ve unquestionably found their own direction. The team at the Wick focus on gourmet pub grub (inspired by modern British cuisine), beer and cocktails. Timely dishes such as beef cheek wellington to the more daring hay baked lamb can be found on the food menu; which has a strong locally sourced ethos.       Throw in the numerous discounts and you’re in for quality food and beer at a genuine bargain. Ales are on mid week drink offers under the ‘After Work’ banner at £2.25 per pint, students’ can enjoy a mighty discount of 20% on food and any local bar workers can share

    As a shout out to beer lovers over the peaks and a nudge to Sheffield beery folksters – the Independent Manchester Beer (& Stuff) Convention is well worth a visit. Kicking off on October 10 th it’s the second year of the event and is organised by the team behind Northern Quarter beer hotspots - Port Street Beer House, Common Bar and The Beagle in Chorlton.         Only a short ride away from Manchester city centre the convention is housed in an outstanding Grade II listed Edwardian building, the Victoria Baths was once the former swimming pools for the area. The stained glass and glazed tiles have been slowly and lovingly restored providing a spectacular backdrop to the main event – abundant bars set up dispensing cask and keg beer to the thirsty crowds. Over 30 indie microbreweries are involved from those close to home such as Thornbridge and Magic Rock in Huddersfield to London jiggery pokery beer-magicians Beavertown and Toccalmatto , an Italian

  The Reader : Mark Davies, artist and lecturer. Why is this ‘Your Local’?   “Geographically it’s a stone’s throw from my home. The pub’s full of like-minded liberal souls who are always open to a chat. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, keeping you up to date on the ever-changing ales. ” Favourite tipple: Pictish Brewing’s Blue Moon 6%, a strong IPA with a spicy hop aroma.               The Local:   Sitting mid point on Gleadless Road in Heeley where the road slowly undulates lays this local gem of a boozer. The pub has stood its ground since the late 20s whilst the ‘hotel’ part has been dropped and the terraced housing which adjoined to each side has vanished. First steps inside lead you into the original main tap room, breweriana adorns the walls and a roomy conservatory and beer garden now stretch out behind the main structure.     A free house community pub where everybody really does know your name and they’re always glad you cam