Robinsons, Stockport - BHS Visit, 29 February 2024

BHS Visit to Robinsons Ltd - 29 February 2024

Members of the BHS last visited The Unicorn Brewery in 2015 when the late Dennis Robinson kindly hosted our AGM. Prior to that BHS records suggest that the previous time was back in 2003!

In 2023, Robinsons announced that its £12m redevelopment plan would come to fruition in 2024-25, with a new brewhouse at Bredbury coming on stream in May 2024. For the first time this move would bring the entire Robinson operation onto one site. The historic tower Unicorn Brewery at Lower Hillgate, on the original 200-year old site would close at the same time with public tours ceasing at that point.

So aware of these changes, BHS organised one last trip to the site. Ten members made the journey and were given an excellent tour of the entire site by well-informed staff.

Over the last 20 years, Robinsons has invested a lot in equipment upgrades at the old site whilst at the same time leaving most of the original historic equipment in situ. Major upgrades have taken place since the 1920-30s and most recently about ten years ago. All of the redundant equipment is well preserved and gives the visitor a great insight into the day-to-day operation of this historic tower brewery.

It became apparent as our tour progressed that there was little, if any, room for further expansion or modernisation, hence the radical move to Bredbury. In terms of preserving for example, the original coppers, we were told that ‘it all had to go’ but no decision had yet been made. None of the equipment would be going to Bredbury. So presumably Robinsons will be on the lookout for potential new buyers in the months ahead.

Whilst the Visitors Centre was still open, the tasting area and cafeteria had closed, as part of the wind-down towards May. Its fate also hangs in the balance as the entire site is under review for re-development. Hopefully the building is listed and can be tastefully re-modelled into something positive for the local community – let’s wait and see ...

On a positive final note, our hosts did offer us tokens which could be exchanged at the local Robinsons pub - The Arden Arms. An excellent venue serving their full range of beers and well worth a visit when you’re next in Stockport!

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  Hillgate
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  Hillgate
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  Hillgate
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  Seck Mill
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  Seck Mill
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  Seck Mill
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  New Mill
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  Old copper in reception area
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  Shire horse stables