Brewery Arts has long been the vibrant heart of Kendal, a place where creativity thrives and culture takes centre stage. As we continue to grow as a hub for talent development and community inspiration, this vision extends to our hospitality offering. With the appointment of Paul Jones as our Head of Hospitality, we’re opening a new chapter for our Bar & Restaurant – one that blends artistry with food and drink to create exciting, enriching experiences.
A life steeped in creativity
Paul’s journey into the creative world began in an unexpected place: carpentry. Following in the footsteps of his father, a set designer, Paul trained as a carpenter and joiner in Salford. Although he didn’t initially work directly in the arts, he was constantly surrounded by it. He met big names like The Spice Girls and The Beach Boys, and his father worked on shows like Blind Date, immersing Paul in the creative industries from an early age.
His journey took a turn towards the world of music and performance. Taking a leap, Paul enrolled in Music College and became the lead singer of a rock and roll band. With an artistic family, creativity was always in his blood, shaping his path towards a life filled with music, culture, and community.
From the birth of the Northern Quarter to the Brewery Arts stage
Paul’s journey into food and drink was just as dynamic. He and his friends opened a bar during the rise of Manchester’s now-iconic Northern Quarter, a time when the area was bursting into life as a cultural hubbub. Paul quickly became the face of the venue, connecting with people daily and immersing himself in a whirlwind of creatives – from journalists unwinding after work to musicians fresh from playing at Piccadilly Records. The bar became a revolving door of experiences, a melting pot of energy, and Paul thrived in the centre of it all.
From there, his culinary adventure took him across the globe. He and his partner moved to Hong Kong, launching an English bistro at the forefront of the Aussie brunch movement – long before smashed avocado became a staple back home. On returning to the UK, he found himself back behind the bar in Manchester, mixing cocktails and socialising with the North West’s cultural crowd. However, the pull of the Lake District was strong, and Paul eventually made his way to Staveley. There, he ran his own café in Bowness-on-Windermere for six years, immersing himself in the area’s natural beauty and vibrant community.
The next chapter: fusing art, food, and community
Stepping into his new role at Brewery Arts, Paul is eager to blend his love for creativity with his passion for food, drink, and community. He views the venue as a place where artistry and hospitality collide, offering guests exceptional cuisine in an energetic space.
Paul has big plans for Brewery Arts’ food and drink offer, from showcasing the stunning beer garden in collaboration with regional producers to emphasising community, working with independent brewers, and creating a true sense of connection through shared experiences.
For Paul, Brewery Arts is more than just a venue. As Head of Hospitality, with his background in music, hospitality, and creativity, he’s set to lead an exciting new chapter alongside our fantastic hospitality team. Great food, excellent drinks, and an electric atmosphere – what more could you ask for?
Visit Food & Drink to book a table.
