Fitzpatricks Temperance Bar

Britain's Last Original Temperance Bar. The temperance movement began in Preston in 1835 during the period of the industrial revolution and was a response to the widespread alcoholism that existed at that time. The availability of cheap ale and gin had been responsible for the breakdown of family life and industrial productivity amongst the working classes. Prohibition was never legalised here but non alcoholic bars began to appear in every town and village to promote abstinence from the 'demon drink'. By the 1890's temperance bars graced every high street the most prominent being Mr Fitzpatrick's - a successful family of Dublin herbalists who established themselves in the North of England and at their peak successfully ran over 40 shops in the region. After world war II interest in taking the pledge faded. The end of prohibition in the United States and the heavy importation of sweet, sugary drinks hitting our shores saw the decline of the temperance bar. However, One Temperance Bar survived and today Mr Fitzpatrick's still owns and operates the little Victorian bar situation here in the Lancashire town of Rawtenstall. Serving to the public the fabulous vintage cordials made hot, cold and sparkling, milkshakes, Iced floats, Mocktails and Ice Lollies we welcome you along to come and visit the bar..