Okell’s brewery and pubs are enjoying something of a renaissance in the Isle of Man as the business celebrates several anniversaries and looks to new markets.
Okell’s brewery was founded in 1850 by Dr Okell. Something of a Victorian puritan, he lobbied the Isle of Man Parliament to prohibit opiates contaminating his beers.
His legacy is a unique point of difference for the brewery, thanks to the resulting Brewing Purity Law which was enacted on the island in 1876. Now celebrating its 175th year, Okell’s ales are, to this day, pure by law.
“The ingredients were all there, but this 175th anniversary really is proving a catalyst for both Okell’s brewery and our associated chain of pubs in the island and across the north of England,” said recently-appointed executive chairman Mark Crowther.
“This milestone anniversary of not just the Island’s favourite beer, but also one of its oldest businesses, is a reminder that we’re custodians of something very special.”
This has been celebrated with a visit from the island’s Lieutenant Governor, Sir John Lorimer, who officially opened Okell’s new canning facility.
Head brewer Kevin Holmes was impressed by how quickly the Lieutenant Governor learned to pull the perfect pint, presenting the first of Okell’s new Special Porter beers. Sir John quipped: “That’s the sign of a misspent youth!”
Vote of approval
Meanwhile, one of the Okell’s Inns landmark pubs, The Woodbourne Hotel, has celebrated its own 130th anniversary and has also been voted CAMRA’s local pub of the year.
Managing director of Okell’s Inns, Steven Taylor, said: “Thanks to manager Trevor Latus and his team, ‘The Woody’ continues to thrive in the traditional role it has played since 1895, providing a vital hub for its community, from clubs to family get-togethers. It’s wonderful that the island’s passionate CAMRA members have given us their vote of approval.”
Mark Crowther added: “Okell’s is at the heart of the Isle of Man’s community, and is also key to delivering a fantastic visitor experience during the island’s world famous TT Race festival. Milestone anniversaries are a great opportunity to reflect on the legacy and to look forward to the exciting next chapter for Okell’s.”
