Castle Rock gets green light for historic Nottingham brewery move
Nottingham brewery and pub group Castle Rock has been given the green light to relocate its brewing operation to a historic site in Old Basford.
Planning permission has been granted for the independent brewer to move into the former home of brewing industry supplier Murphy & Son during 2027.
The building was originally constructed for the Prince of Wales Brewery in 1891 and remained a working brewery into the early 20th century. Castle Rock’s move will see beer produced at the site for the first time in more than 100 years.
The relocation comes after Castle Rock was unable to secure a renewal of the lease on the brewery and head office section of its existing city centre site, which expires in March 2027.
Castle Rock said the new base would allow it to invest in brewing equipment, improve efficiency, develop its beer range and reduce its environmental impact.
Its Vat and Fiddle pub will remain open as normal, while the future of some adjoining spaces, including the Old Cold Store, remains subject to separate negotiations.
Colin Wilde, managing director of Castle Rock, said: “Moving to Old Basford is an incredibly exciting next step for Castle Rock. The site has a remarkable brewing heritage, and the opportunity to bring beer production back to it feels very special.
“While our surroundings will change, the things that matter most will not: brewing great beer in Nottingham, running safe and welcoming pubs, and bringing people together.
“Our new home will remain firmly within the city and is only a few stops along the tram line from our current brewery.”
The move will coincide with two milestones for Castle Rock in 2027, when it will celebrate 50 years as a pub group and 30 years as a brewery.
The business traces its roots to 1977, when founder Chris Holmes opened the Old King’s Arms in Newark. It began brewing its own beer 20 years later and is now known for beers including Harvest Pale and Elsie Mo.
Castle Rock is planning a programme of events and beer collaborations to mark the anniversaries, as well as a farewell to its existing city centre brewery before production moves to Old Basford.
