History of the Company
The earliest surviving reference to an organised group of brewers in the City of London was in 1292. However, it was not until 1438, when Henry VI granted the Brewers a royal charter, that they were incorporated as a Livery Company.
History of the Hall
The Brewers’ Company has been housed on the same site in the City of London since 1403 and during this time its home, Brewers’ Hall, has been destroyed and rebuilt twice.
Past Masters
The Company has records of its Masters going back to 1563 when the practice of electing a Master annually began.
Company Treasures
Thanks to the generosity of Past Masters, Liverymen and other benefactors, over the centuries the Company has become the custodian of an unrivalled collection of historically interesting works of art, artefacts and other treasures.
Archives & Library
The Brewers’ Company has one of the oldest continuous records of any livery company. The historic archive is held at Guildhall Library, whilst more recent records are kept at Brewers’ Hall. There is also a Company Library for use by Members.
Coat of Arms
The Brewers’ Company received its first Grant of Arms in 1468. This was replaced by a new Grant of Arms in 1544, which remains in use today.