Brewery Arts was formed in 1989 from the merger of Cirencester Workshops and the Niccol Centre.

Built in 1820 as a brewery, the premises continued to brew beer until 1937. After a period of use by a sheet-metal company the buildings were bought by Cotswold District Council for demolition.  A local group, however, proposed repair and conversion into craft workshops instead and Cirencester Workshops opened in 1979.

Subsequently, following a bequest, the former barrel store was converted in 1984 into educational studios surrounding a theatre. Originally providing Third Age arts activities the centre has evolved into a provider of arts education and performance for all ages.

Following extensive redesign and refurbishment, the New Brewery Arts galleries, shop, workshops and café opened in February 2008. 

Ceramicist Grayson Perry, winner of the 2003 Turner Prize, launched the new centre officially on 3 April 2008.