“A vibrant Fender-y voice, lightweight feel and original style”: Ancoats Guitars New Islington review

Proudly made in Manchester, England, Ancoats’ guitars mix up retro themes that stand out in the market. We take this third-generation New Islington for a spin

Ancoats guitars New Islington
(Image: © Future / Phil Barker)

Guitar World Verdict

What the New Islington lacks on a couple of easily sorted fine details, it certainly makes up for with a vibrant Fender-y voice, lightweight feel and original style, not to mention a welcome shout-out for Manchester craft.

Pros

  • +

    Inspired retro design with plenty of custom options.

  • +

    Good voicing from single coils.

  • +

    Series mix broadens the voices.

  • +

    Good lightweight feel and playability.

Cons

  • -

    Fret ends and un-countersunk screws could be improved upon.

You can trust Guitar World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing guitar products so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Ancoats’ guitars are made by David Roberts in a converted shipping container in Pollard Yard, Manchester. 

“It was an old parking lot or something, but it now has around 130 shipping containers – just a lined empty container with patio doors on the front – and everyone’s turned them into their own start-up businesses,” David tells us.

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