New images released today offer a first glimpse inside The Old Brewery, an immersive beer experience preparing to open at the former home of Brains Brewery in Cardiff city centre.
Brains Brewery has partnered with successful Welsh-based pub company Breaking Brands and global brewing giant Heineken to create the new destination in the city’s historic brewery quarter.
Located on the former site of Ballie Ballerson, the venue is a collaboration with Breaking Brands director Steve Lewis and aims to celebrate Welsh brewing heritage while embracing the future of the industry.
Brains Brewery was based at the St Mary’s Street site from 1882 until 1999, before it was redeveloped into a leisure complex in the early noughties.
The Old Brewery will bring more than 140 years of brewing tradition to life through a multi-sensory journey exploring Cardiff’s past, present and future. It will also celebrate the culture and sporting spirit that defines Wales.
In a first for Cardiff, the venue will feature interactive sporting games powered by smart-net and motion-tracking technology.
Inspired by some of the city’s greatest sporting moments, the games will allow customers to test their skills by attempting a match-winning penalty kick or an important conversion, while experiencing the anticipation and excitement of match day.
The venue will also offer Welsh-inspired menus celebrating local suppliers and flavours, sensory beer experiences and guided tastings.
Interactive storytelling spaces will chart the Brains Brewery journey from 1882 to the present day, while archival photography and memorabilia will honour Cardiff’s brewing legacy.
An event and community space will also be available for local organisations to rent and use.
Nick Payne, Managing Director at Brains Brewery, said: “This collaboration feels really special to us at Brains as it feels like we’re coming home. When Steve approached us with the idea for this venue, we jumped at the chance.
“We are very proud of our Cardiff roots, our heritage and how we are still brewing in the city, more than 140 years later.”
Nick added: “I can’t wait to have my first pint of SA pulled from the pumps at The Old Brewery and immerse myself in the art and artefacts we have gathered to celebrate our brewery and our city.”
