Casked Ale House & Ginporium: Running Towards a Healthier Community

Introduction

The Casked Ale House & Ginporium in Rossendale has transformed from a cosy pub into the unofficial headquarters of local wellness through its ever-growing running club, Casked Runners. What started as a casual, social initiative among staff and regulars has become a vibrant, inclusive movement promoting health, happiness, and charitable giving.

Casked Ale House: Creating a Healthier, Happier Community Through Sport

What they did

Founded five years ago, Casked Runners celebrated its 5th anniversary in September 2024. The group now includes three running teams (5K, 7.9K, and 10K) and a walking group to ensure full inclusivity. Open to all levels, from beginners to aspiring marathon runners, the club meets twice weekly—hosting technique coaching on Mondays and group runs from the pub on Wednesdays.

Members contribute £1 per run, and in 2024 alone, the club raised over £1,500 for charities, with Rossendale Hospice receiving £850 as the main beneficiary. Other funds supported causes chosen by the group, including ELHT&Me in honour of the club’s late running coach, Rob Gardner, and therapy dog Alfie.

The pub not only provides a welcoming launch base for all sessions, but also rewards participants with food and refreshments afterward—turning each run into a full social occasion.

The community reaction

The Casked Runners are widely admired within the community for their energy, inclusivity, and commitment to wellbeing. Regular posts on their Facebook page show runners laughing, celebrating milestones, and inspiring others. Local patrons often engage in conversation about the group’s latest achievements, even if they aren’t runners themselves.

Impact

The group has introduced dozens of local people to regular physical activity, including many who had never exercised before. The focus on inclusivity and mental wellbeing has helped reduce social isolation, with many participants noting the friendships and support networks they’ve developed through the club. Several members have gone on to run half marathons, proving just how transformative the group has been.

Summary

The Casked Ale House & Ginporium has successfully blended community, sport, and social wellbeing into a single initiative that continues to inspire and uplift. Casked Runners is more than a club—it’s a movement for better mental and physical health, rooted in the heart of a community pub.

About

Casked Ale House & Ginporium

A warm, community-focused pub in Rossendale committed to health, wellbeing, and charitable giving.
Casked Ale House & Ginporium, 13 St James St, Bacup OL13 9NJ
Go to pub website

Local Constituency

Hyndburn

Local MP

Andy MacNae (Labour MP)
Go to local MP website
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