Crankshaft Brewery

The folks at Crankshaft Brewery have set up shop in Lancashire with the sort of no-nonsense approach you'd expect from a proper independent operation. They're making beer here - the kind that tastes like someone actually cared about what went into the tank rather than just following a spreadsheet. You'll find the brewery near Little Hoole Moss Houses, which isn't exactly on the tourist trail, but that's rather the point.

What you get is a chance to see how they do it. There's usually a chance to have a look round, chat to the people who know what they're doing, and try whatever they've got fresh. It's the sort of place that appeals most to beer enthusiasts and anyone with a genuine curiosity about how proper ale comes together - not the kind of attraction where you'll be herded through on a fixed tour. If you're expecting slick visitor facilities and a gift shop, you'll be disappointed. If you want honest beer talk in a genuine working brewery, you're in the right place.

Since it's fairly tucked away, it works well as a detour if you're based at one of the nearby parks. Smithills View and Brylea both rate highly and sit within easy reach. Royal Umpire is closer if you don't mind a slightly lower rating. It's the sort of stop that makes sense mid-week when the brewery's quieter - best to check ahead for opening times and whether they're expecting visitors that day. Not for everyone, but exactly right for the right person.