Norfolk brewery launches crowdfunding campaign for immersive taproom and expansion at historic priory site

Three years after opening, Duration Brewing is looking to raise up to £1m to expand production and finish renovating its 16th century stone barn in rural Norfolk following a 280 per cent increase in brewery managed retail.

The landmark site in West Acre, Kings Lynn has already been converted into a “state-of-the-art” brewery to produce its multi-award-winning beers. Soon it will also house a new taproom that gives visitors a view of the brewhouse on one side, and the ruins of a 10th century priory on the other.

The plan is to build a taproom and visitor centre transforming the crumbling south end gable of the barn to include a commercial kitchen, two floors and a large glass window bringing in natural light and Norfolk’s countryside.

Planning permission has already been granted, and all that remains is to raise the funds and build the community that will bring it all to life - all of which will be done through Crowdcube. The campaign launches on May 25 on Crowdcube following a national tap takeover tour to launch a one-off beer, For the Duration, around the UK.

The construction of the taproom will complete not only Duration’s historic site, but also realise the founders’ vision of a destination farmhouse brewery that celebrates the “vital relationship” between brewing and agriculture.

Managing director Miranda Hudson commented: “When we started Duration, we wanted to build something truly unique and enchanting. That meant a world-class brewery with a true connection to its landscape; a place to come and enjoy a farm-to-glass beer as part of your own Norfolk adventure.

“Last year we opened a taproom and had no idea it would take off as it has. People flock from all over the UK and beyond to visit us. The Crowdcube campaign will help us realise the final piece of our dream, inviting in a community of people who believe in our project.”

The minimum amount needed is £350k, which will fund the taproom, improve the water treatment plant and continue the brewery’s annual cellar expansion that will see Duration reach an annual capacity up to 5,000HL by 2025.

Reaching a stretch goal of near £1m will mean the brewery can also add a laboratory, a new event and workspace, a fourth brewing vessel, upgrade its canning line and enhance its sustainability drive with a rainwater recapture system and a fruit orchard.