Brewery Arts, Kendal
Brewery Arts, Kendal is a multi-purpose arts complex presenting a year round programme of theatre, music, comedy, films, lectures and exhibitions, together with a range of adult and youth activities including art and craft workshops, and classes.
Events at Brewery Arts
As well as holding superb music and theatre from across the globe, the centre also hosts an array of great festivals throughout the year, such as the The International Comic Art Festival, Kendal Mountain Festival, Freerange Comedy Festival and many more.
With over 300,000 people walking through the door of the 9th Best Attraction in the UK, each year, the Brewery Arts Centre is now a top place on the map to visit.
History
From its early days in the mid-16th century, the Brewery has played a key role in Kendal’s social life. It began as Highgate’s first licensed brewery, producing ales that became a staple in local inns. By the 1930s, Vaux Brewery owned the site and supplied beer to 30 pubs across Westmorland. Demand grew, and the brewery expanded to meet it. Skilled brewers worked within its walls, crafting popular ales. The brewery thrived, contributing to Kendal’s lively drinking culture. However, economic shifts and industrial changes led to its closure. Rather than being demolished, the site found a new purpose in the 1970s.
The Brewery transformed into an arts centre in 1972. This change preserved its historic architecture while adapting it for creative use. The building, now over 150 years old, sits within a landscaped garden. Over time, Brewery Arts developed a strong local following. It gained recognition regionally, nationally, and internationally. Theatre, cinema, live music, and visual arts became central to its programme. Renovations allowed for more events, workshops, and exhibitions. The centre became a hub for artistic expression, drawing talent from across the UK.
Local residents embrace Brewery Arts as a vibrant community space. Visitors appreciate its rich history and diverse events. The centre continues to evolve, ensuring its place in Kendal’s cultural landscape. It blends history with contemporary creativity, making it a unique and inspiring venue.
Booths at Brewery Arts, Kendal
As part of its commitment to the Kendal community, Booths has become a major sponsor of the Brewery Arts Centre, and has part funded The Booths Terrace, an outdoor eating and drinking area in the Brewery Grounds. As part of the agreement, the Artisan restaurant at Booths will feature a regular exhibition of local art, giving artists a further opportunity to sell their work.
There is a restaurant serving lunchtime and evening meals.
The Brewery Arts complex is reached through an arch under the Brewery House, now Kendal’s Youth Hostel.
To see what’s on at the Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal see our What’s On pages.
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Grid Ref : SD 514924