All Together Bury: Jennifer Smith, Broad Street Social
As part of our All Together Bury series, we’re celebrating the independent businesses that bring character, creativity and community spirit to the town centre. This time, we caught up with Jennifer Smith, owner of Broad Street Social, a friendly and welcoming bar based in Bury’s Cultural Quarter.
Specialising in real ales from their own micro-brewery alongside local wines and gins, Broad Street Social is a space where great drinks, local talent and community come together.
Q: For anyone who hasn’t visited before, how would you describe Broad Street Social?
Jennifer:
“We’re a friendly bar specialising in real ales from our own micro-brewery, Brewsmith Beer, alongside wines and gins from brilliant local producers.”
“We also host regular events and entertainment socials, supporting local artists and musicians and giving people a relaxed place to come together.”
Q: How did Broad Street Social begin?
Jennifer:
“We set up our micro-brewery, Brewsmith Beer, back in 2014 and always had the ambition to have our own venue to showcase the beers we make.”
“At the time, many pubs in Bury were tied to breweries or pub companies, and we found it difficult to sell our product locally. Opening Broad Street Social meant we could serve our own beers while also championing other excellent local producers and suppliers.”
Q: What makes Broad Street Social special — and uniquely ‘Bury’?
Jennifer:
“It’s all about local. From the producers and suppliers we work with to the artists and musicians we host, everything we do is rooted in the town.”
“We employ, empower and train knowledgeable staff to create a genuinely friendly atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. That sense of warmth, inclusivity and community is what really defines us.”
Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of Bury’s business community?
Jennifer:
“Bury has such a diverse mix of independent and national businesses, which creates a really thriving town centre with something for everyone.”
“The support from other businesses is crucial. The BID has helped create networking opportunities, improve the town centre and drive footfall through events. That shared support is what helps businesses like ours survive and thrive.”
Q: This campaign is called ‘All Together Bury’. How does that idea reflect what you do?
Jennifer:
“At Broad Street Social, everything we do is about creating a sense of place – supporting local producers, giving a platform to local creatives, and offering a welcoming space for people to come together.”
“That spirit of collaboration and community is exactly what All Together Bury represents.”
Q: And finally — your Bury favourites…
Food & drink: “Falafel & More on Bury Market – hands down the best shawarmas and incredible value. Barista Café Bar for seasonal food and service, Wax and Beans for top-tier coffee, Bloom for brunch (Bloom Shrooms say no more!), and Peter’s Tearoom on the market for fresh sandwiches and cakes.”
Retail: “Kwoff – now on The Rock — supplies all our wines and has an amazing selection. Ryman and The Works are brilliant for gifts and quirky bits.”
Favourite shop: “KB News on Bolton Street. Proper newspapers, groceries, and the best locally made takeaway sandwiches — absolute bargain.”
Hidden gem: “Bury Market. People travel from all over the country to visit, but locals don’t use it enough. You can get everything there — and the quality and value beat any supermarket.”
Go-to treat: “You can’t beat a pick ’n’ mix and Bury has plenty of options!”
Q: What’s next for Broad Street Social?
Jennifer:
“These are tough times for hospitality, so our focus is simple – keep doing what we do best.”
“That means brewing new beers, offering friendly service, showcasing local musicians and artists, and giving people a real sense of place and atmosphere.”
“And if we’re allowed to wish for one thing? A new curry house nearby would be ideal.”
Follow @DiscoverBury to discover more stories celebrating the people, places and independents that make our town such a vibrant and welcoming place – All Together Bury.
