A Family Feast to Remember: The Roast Dinner at Manchester’s Blacklock
The Blacklock Sunday Roast piles up a heady mix of Beef, Lamb and Pork Roasts with all of the trimmings. The star of the show was undoubtedly the succulent meats, cooked to perfection.
Whole joints are roasted over open coals and English oak the traditional way. Served with
Yorkshire pudding, duck fat-roast potatoes, a selection of seasonal vegetables and an
unsparing amount of Blacklock Gravy. From the tender lamb to flavourful beef, every bite was
a delight. The quality of the food was exceptional, and we appreciated the generous portions
that especially kept our growing teenage boy happy!
One of the standout aspects of Blacklock was the relaxed atmosphere that
permeated the entire dining area, so we didn’t have to worry about the kids getting restless
or getting overexcited.
Blacklock’s is nestled in a cosy basement in the corner of a Grade ll listed warehouse,
formerly home to a textile merchant rich with Mancunian history, with a warm and inviting
decor, adding to the overall ambiance of the meal.
The service at Blacklock was top-notch. Our server was attentive, friendly, and efficient, ensuring that our glasses were always full and our plates were never empty. They were also happy to accommodate our requests and made sure we had everything we needed throughout the meal, making sure everyone felt at ease—especially Peter, who served us throughout and even got a hug from our youngest, Hartley (a thank you for all the extra gravy!).
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Book a table direct at Blacklock Manchester
Building a Brand as a Working Parent: The Bit Nobody Talks About (The Loneliness)
Building a brand as a working parent looks great on paper — flexible hours, doing something you love, creating a life that fits around family. But the reality is often messier. You’re juggling school runs and deadlines, client work and packed lunches, confidence wobbles and cash flow worries… and somehow you’re expected to show up online like you’ve got it all under control.
The Balance of Play
I hate admitting that because I value play so deeply, especially in those precious early years. It’s how our children learn, explore, imagine and build confidence. But as a mum trying to keep a household running and a business growing, it’s not always easy to appreciate those moments.
Part Time Working Mummy Interview: Rachaele Hambleton & Josh Marshall
Rachaele Hambleton, aka Part Time Working Mummy, is an inspirational mum of six. The incredible 43-year-old is a Sunday Times Bestselling Author—four times over—founder of The Patchwork House, a support and guidance service for vulnerable individuals and families, and she’s also a successful entrepreneur, which includes her own clothing brand REBL.
Introducing Amanda Marks
We’re thrilled to welcome our new columnist Amanda Marks. Amanda is a Renowned Breastfeeding, Food & Sleep Consultant
With over 40 years of experience supporting families, Amanda Marks is a highly respected breastfeeding, food, and sleep consultant. Based in prestigious locations including 10 Harley Street, London, and Alderley Edge, Cheshire, Amanda has worked with families from diverse backgrounds, including media personalities and royalty, maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality.
An Interview with English Professional Boxer Chris Billam-Smith
At BROOD, we’re always drawn to stories that celebrate not just professional triumphs, but the heart and humanity behind them. Someone who embodies this spirit perfectly is Chris Billam-Smith—a world-class athlete
whose grit in the ring is matched only by his devotion to his family.
Why Family Gardening Is Having a Quiet Comeback
There’s a noticeable shift happening in how families spend their time. It isn’t loud or trend-led, and it’s rarely documented with before-and-after shots. Instead, it’s quieter and slower, rooted in small routines and shared moments. Family gardening is part of that change.
From Parliament to the Premier League: Campaigning for survivors of domestic abuse during this #16DaysOfActivism
Our Head of Social Causes and Sub-Editor Teresa Parker was joined by BROOD Editor-in Chief Lolo Stubbs at an event in Parliament on the 2nd December 2025 to mark ten years of coercive control legislation. Teresa organised the event through her consultancy Teresa Parker Media, in partnership with Hawkins, Laxton & Co, which is run by her former colleagues Clare and Sian.
WHY PARENTS NEED A WILL (Even If You Don’t Think You Do)
A lot of people still think wills are only for the wealthy or the elderly. I hear this all the time. In reality, wills are about far more than dividing up money.
Learning to let go – the empowerment edit with Sarah Jayne Dunn
Have you ever found yourself in a situationship that doesn’t serve you? You’re not sure why, you can’t quite put your finger on it, but deep down, something doesn’t feel right. Your gut is nudging you, your heart feels heavy, the energy is off, and somewhere in the background, the alarm bells are starting to ring.
PETER SIDWELL’S HOMEMADE WAGONWHEELS & HOB-NOB STYLE BISCUITS
This month, I’m thrilled to share two of our all-time favourite bakes: our homemade Hob Nobs and nostalgic Wagon Wheels. These recipes are more than just sweet treats—they’re time capsules. The Hob Nobs came from a rainy weekend when we had oats, butter, and not much else in the cupboards. The kids loved rolling the dough into little biscuit balls and watching them flatten in the oven. Dipping them in chocolate was the final touch—well, that and licking the spoon clean!
