Railway Arches for Breweries & Distilleries
Set up a brewery in a railway arch. Fit-out costs, requirements, best London areas, and planning advice for craft breweries. From the Beer Mile to your first brew.
Typical Size
800–3,000 sqft
Fit-Out Cost
£80–£175/sqft
Use Class
B2
Rates Multiplier
RHL (lower)
Why a Railway Arch?
Arches offer the perfect combination of ceiling height (3–8m at peak) for tall fermentation vessels, structural strength for heavy brewing equipment (steel tanks can weigh 2+ tonnes), thick walls that provide natural temperature stability, and the authentic industrial aesthetic that craft beer customers expect. The clustering effect — being part of a Beer Mile or brewery trail — drives destination footfall that no standalone unit can match.
Advantages
- +Natural temperature stability from thick masonry walls
- +Height accommodates tall fermentation vessels
- +Structural strength supports heavy equipment
- +Industrial aesthetic enhances taproom experience
- +Clustering drives destination footfall
- +Lower RHL rates multiplier reduces costs
Challenges
- -High fit-out costs: £80–£175/sqft including 3-phase upgrade
- -Damp control is critical — moisture damages ingredients and equipment
- -Limited vehicle access for deliveries in some locations
- -Drainage installation can be complex and expensive
- -Noise may limit production hours near residential areas
Cost Profile
| Cost Element | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Fit-Out (per sqft) | £80 | £175 |
| Fit-Out (800 sqft) | £64,000 | £140,000 |
| Typical Rateable Value | £15,000 | £35,000 |
| Est. Annual Rates (0.382p) | £5,730 | £13,370 |
Breweries & Distilleries qualifies for the lower RHL (Retail, Hospitality & Leisure) rates multiplier, saving roughly 11% compared to the standard multiplier.
Key Requirements
Infrastructure & Services
- •3-phase electrical supply for brewing equipment
- •Floor drainage and grease/hop traps
- •Extract ventilation for steam and CO2
- •Mains water connection with adequate pressure
- •Structural floor capable of supporting heavy vessels
- •Cooling system (glycol or cold room)
Planning & Permissions
- •B2 (General Industrial) use class — may need Change of Use if previously E class
- •Listed Building Consent for any fixings to arch structure
- •Environmental Health registration for food/drink production
- •Alcohol licensing for taproom sales
- •Extract ventilation planning — may need external ductwork consent