The Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal
The Brewery Arts Centre in Kendal is very much at the heart of South Lakeland’s cultural and creative life.
It is a thriving Lake District arts organisation delivering inspirational cultural events, festivals and creative learning courses.
At a Glance
Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal
- History: Licensed as a brewery in 1758; last brewed in 1968; reopened as a multi-arts venue in May 1972
- Theatre: 260-seat auditorium
- Music venue: 420 standing capacity
- Cinemas: Two screens, recently refurbished and air-conditioned
- Also on site: Digital lounge, galleries, gardens, bars, restaurant, creative studios
- Recent investment: £850,000 refurbishment, funded by Cumbria County Council and Arts Council England
- Opening hours: Daily from 11am
- On-site accommodation: Youth Hostel Association (Highgate side of the complex)
- Nearby stay: Kents Bank Holiday Cottage, Grange-over-Sands — easy access by bus or car
The brewery Kendal was first licensed in 1758 by Whitewell, Mark & Co Ltd, and the last brew was produced in September 1968.
It opened in May 1972 as a multi-arts venue.
Take a look at this short video tour of the venue below.
Today, it is one of the country’s leading art venues, bringing the world to Kendal through events and activities for all ages.
Since being established, this popular venue presents a year-round programme of exciting, diverse, top-quality events and live performances.
It is a great asset to Kendal and now consists of a 260-seat theatre, a 420 standing capacity music venue, two cinemas, a digital lounge, galleries, gardens, bars, a restaurant and creative studios.
So, from film to art exhibitions to restaurants and bars, the Brewery has something for everyone.
The centre recently underwent an extensive revamp that cost £850,000. The upgrade was made possible by grant funding.
The funding has come from organisations such as Cumbria County Council and Arts Council England.
Moreover, the refurbished and reconfigured cinema is spacious and air-conditioned and shows the latest films on a big screen.
If you are out for the evening, the recently redecorated bar and restaurant is a must for great food and drink.
Last but not least, the Brewery opens from 11 am each day.
On the Highgate side of the complex is accommodation for the Youth Hostel Association.
Looking to visit the Brewery Arts centre in Kendal?
Stay at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage in Grange-over-Sands — with easy bus or car access to Kendal — and make the Brewery Arts Centre part of your Lake District trip. Call 07785944194 or enquire here, or enquire here.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1) What was the Brewery Arts Centre before it became an arts venue?
It was a working brewery, first licensed in 1758 by Whitewell, Mark & Co Ltd. Brewing continued on the site for over 200 years, with the last brew produced in September 1968.
2) What facilities does the Brewery Arts Centre have today?
The centre includes a 260-seat theatre, a 420-capacity standing music venue, two cinemas, a digital lounge, galleries, gardens, bars, a restaurant, and creative studios — offering something for most tastes, from film and live music to art and dining.
3) What time does the Brewery Arts Centre open?
It opens daily from 11am.
4) Has the venue been renovated recently?
Yes. It recently underwent an £850,000 refurbishment, funded by grants from organisations including Cumbria County Council and Arts Council England. The cinema, in particular, has been reconfigured and is now spacious and air-conditioned.
How to Book Kents Bank Holiday Cottage
Booking Kents Bank Holiday Cottage is quick and simple. Just visit our website at kentsbankholiday.co.uk or give us a call on 07785944194.
We’re always happy to answer your questions and help you find the perfect dates for your stay. Our friendly team makes the whole process easy, so you can focus on enjoying your relaxing holiday by Morecambe Bay.