Although I knew and liked such as the Kingston Trio, Peter, Paul & Mary, and Joan Baez, I wasn't too aware of folk music until I (by happen-chance) dropped in one night at the Wellgreen - I still remember that the guests that night were Redmayne. From then I was a regular visitor (shift work permitting!) and saw many notable guests, including the Fureys, Harvey Andrews, Vin Garbutt, Foggy Duo. to mention just a few. I'm not sure whether Steeleye Span appeared there - I know I became a great fan of their music and have many of their albums, so how else?
I also remember that for a short(?) while, there was a weekly folk club at the Queens in Sale (next to the railway station).
Re the railway station - for those who know him, AGRAMAN (aka John Marshall) worked for a time in the ticket office - I know because I worked with him! :-)