Councillor Barrie Jennings, representing the Stratton St Margaret Parish Council, joined the Arkell family in unveiling a commemorative plaque at the site of Arkell’s Brewery, where the founder, John Arkell, began brewing in 1843.
Arkell’s, established by John Arkell 180 years ago, stands as Swindon’s oldest business, still operating as a family-owned enterprise handed down through generations. Present-day spectators gathered for the unveiling of a commemorative plaque honoring the entrepreneur. Attendees included current members of the Arkell family, local brewery shareholders (all descendants of John Arkell), brewery staff, Stratton St Margaret Parish Council, and the Stratton History Society.
Alex Arkell, a sixth-generation member of the Arkell family, expressed, “John, our great, great, great grandfather, established his brewery at the most pivotal moment in Swindon’s history.
Just three miles away, Isambard Kingdom Brunel inaugurated his monumental Swindon Railway Works in the same year. Our history is intertwined with the growth of the Railway Works and the subsequent expansion of Swindon and its surrounding areas. John recognised the potential of this small town, and 180 years later, we remain here, immensely grateful that he chose this location.”
The proposal to install a commemorative plaque for John Arkell was put forth by the Stratton St Margaret Parish Council. Councillor Robert Jandy commented, “As one of my final duties as Parish Chair, I am proud that John Arkell is finally being recognised with a blue plaque—a man and family of immense importance to Stratton St Margaret.
Arkell’s is one of fewer than thirty family breweries remaining in the UK. As Swindon’s oldest business, Arkell’s has upheld its founding values and continues to produce local beer for local patrons.”
For those interested in delving deeper into the brewery’s history, the archive center on the upper floor of the Grape & Grain Wine & Brewery Warehouse offers a wealth of information.
Visitors can embark on a journey through key milestones in Arkell’s history, explore pub signs, peruse archive adverts, watch videos, and enjoy an animated explanation of the brewing process.
The center is open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM (excluding bank holidays). Alternatively, you can book a brewery tour at https://www.arkells.com/tour.
