Rochdale Town Centre renaissance continues as the Medicine Tap opens

Date published: 17 March 2018

The latest piece in Rochdale Town centre’s ongoing renaissance fell into place on Saturday evening as the Medicine Tap bar and restaurant was officially opened by Mayor Ian Duckworth.

Located in the Grade II listed former post office, with its beautiful baroque-style facade, Medicine Tap has been lovingly restored by John Stoner, who owns the Mighty Medicine Brewery in Whitworth.

Mayoress Christine Duckworth, Medicine Tap owners John Stoner and Caroline Norton, and Mayor Ian Duckworth

Mayor Ian Duckworth said: “Great to welcome another new business to Rochdale, a local business man investing and having faith in our Town Centre, this is all part of the regeneration of the Borough of Rochdale.

“I wish them the best of luck, although I am sure that they are heading for a successful future.

"Actually, it’s the first time that I have been in the Post Office without having to queue.”

Medicine Tap bar

Caroline Norton, Mr Stoner’s partner, said: “Medicine Tap is very much needed in Rochdale, it’s family friendly with a children’s menu, baby changing facilities and breast feeding friendly.

“It’s a coffee shop with a breakfast menu, we even offer takeaway; our lunch time menu has a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, pizza, a fabulous selection of cakes and artisan coffees”

“Our evening menu is casual dining in a very relaxing atmosphere.

“We offer 30 drought ales, many of which are produced in-house at Mighty Medicine in Whitworth, we are looking to extend our alpine cocktail and gin menu in the near future.

“We managed to retain many of the original features, the safe, post boxes, weighing scales and most of the oak paneling.

“It is a fusion of English architecture with Bavarian influences, a warm and welcoming environment with a backdrop of the magnificent Town Hall, medieval bridge and open river.”