The North East-based brewer is strengthening its national presence with the launch of its 16th Head of Steam venue, taking over a landmark Northern Quarter location in Manchester City Centre.
Camerons Brewery, one of the UK’s largest independent family-owned breweries, has confirmed plans to open a new Head of Steam venue in Manchester later this year. The launch marks the brand’s first new site since the award-winning Leeds Park Row opening in 2019 and signals a new chapter of growth for the group.
Situated on Newton Street at the gateway to the Northern Quarter, in the former Cottonopolis and Lamb of Tartary premises, the 2,800 sq ft venue will accommodate up to 180 guests, with seating for 120. The opening will also create 14 new jobs for the local community.
This latest development forms part of Camerons’ continued national expansion strategy for its flagship Head of Steam brand, underpinned by a careful, sustainable approach to investment and site selection.
Chris Soley, CEO of Camerons Brewery, said: “It’s fantastic that The Head of Steam and Camerons Brewery are back on the expansion trail. Following our successful refinance in 2024, we are delighted that The Head of Steam Manchester will be the first venue to open on this next stage of growth.”
Chosen for its prime city-centre position near Piccadilly Station, the venue has been designed to embody Head of Steam’s signature style — blending the building’s Grade II listed heritage with a contemporary, industrial aesthetic. Exposed brickwork and a circular island bar will sit at the heart of the space, creating a welcoming and distinctive environment.
Reflecting the brand’s ethos of making craft beer approachable and enjoyable for everyone, the new Manchester venue will offer an impressive selection of 30 beer lines — 24 keg and 6 cask — alongside a rotating collection of cans and bottles from leading UK and international craft breweries. Additional highlights will include augmented reality darts, six live sports screens, and a new food concept delivered by a local operator.
Retail Director, David Scott added: “Manchester has been our number one target city for some time, and we are pleased to have finally found a venue that matches both our design vision and our demographic. At The Head of Steam, our exciting beer range and knowledgeable teams are at the very centre of what we do, so finding a site that allows for a central island bar and literally places the beer and the team at the heart of our guest experience is very exciting.”
Founded in 1995 and acquired by Camerons Brewery in 2013, The Head of Steam has built a strong reputation for its inclusive and innovative approach to craft beer. The brand now operates across 15 venues in 13 UK cities — from Newcastle to Cardiff — including its popular Didsbury location, a favourite among South Manchester residents since opening in 2018.