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. 

We now have a published history of New Brewery Arts - see below for details.