Moorhouse's is an independent brewery founded in 1865 by William Moorhouse in Burnley in Lancashire, UK as a producer of mineral waters and low alcohol beers known as hop bitters. It first produced cask ales in 1978 and has maintained long held connections with the local legend of the Pendle Witches. The trials of the Pendle witches in 1612 are among the most famous witch trials in English history, and some of the best recorded of the 17th century. The twelve accused lived in the area around Pendle Hill in Lancashire, and were charged with the murders of ten people by the use of witchcraft. All but two were tried at Lancaster Assizes on 18–19 August 1612, along with the Samlesbury witches and others, in a series of trials that have become known as the Lancashire witch trials. One was tried at York Assizes on 27 July 1612, and another died in prison. Of the eleven who went to trial – nine women and two men – ten were found guilty and executed by hanging; one was found not guilty.
Moorhouses now boast six pubs including The Pendle Witch at Atherton, five permanent cask ales, twelve seasonal ales plus bottled and speciality blends. They are currently running a campaign to pardon the Pendle Witches to mark the 400th year anniversary of their execution.
Even if supporting long gone witches isn't your thing you can still enjoy one of their flagship ales Pendle Witches Brew. This chestnut coloured sweet malty ale has plenty of character in its auburn depths. Raisin, nuts and red wine come together with mulled winter citrus fruits with a hint of bitterness at the back. A smooth mouthfeel and a small creamy head make this 5.1% ABV ale a popular choice in any pub proving that witches aren't just for Halloween.
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