Inside the hidden riverside brewery and taproom opening in the shadow of Stockport Viaduct

Swapping Manchester for Stockport might seem like a risky move, but for Runaway Brewery it makes perfect sense.

Stockport's renaissance, bolstered by £1bn regeneration programme of its town centre, and reflected in its wealth of new independent shops, restaurants and bars, is attracting not only media attention, but a new cohort of businesses who've seen the potential is the former mill town.

That's the case for Runaway, which officially opened its doors on Astley Street on Thursday. Swapping railway arches on Dantzic Street for a former metal works in Stockport town centre, the brewery's launch follows a year of planning and refurbishment with landlord Orbit Developments.

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Encompassing a ground-floor brewery and taproom overlooking the River Mersey, as well as a beer garden and upstairs event space, the venue represents something new for Stockport, but also fits in with the town's existing food and drink scene.

“We wanted to be part of a community, and something that was more relevant to an existing community where we know they enjoy beer," explained co-owner Mark Welsby. "Stockport also has this DIY feel to it and there's several businesses here reflecting that spirit."

Helping Mark launch the brewery in its new home is lead brewer Oli Edwards and taproom manager Sam Juleff, alongside Sophie Waites and Josh Chappell, who look after operations, events and deliveries, and apprentice brewer Jake Duncan.

“There's been a lot of excitement locally, which is what we were hoping for, but it’s actually been more welcoming than we expected. There is an established beer scene, places like The Magnet, Ye Olde Vic, Petersgate Tap and The Crown