A new YHA hostel – YHA Cotswolds – has opened in Cirencester and offers arts and crafts workshops for groups.
The hostel is being operated by the arts charity New Brewery Arts, which has designed the content of the workshops.
The classes on offer include pottery sessions, willow weaving, textiles, painting, drawing and stone-carving.
What to expect at YHA Cotswolds
YHA Cotswolds is also known as The Barrel Store, due to its previous use as the barrel warehouse of Cirencester Brewery.
It has now been turned into budget accommodation, with handcrafted furniture and detailing.
The accommodation offers 44 beds across 14 rooms, most of which are en suite, a self-catering kitchen, a café and craft shop and a cycle store. There’s also free WiFi and the hostel is wheelchair accessible.
It is said to be the first low carbon footprint building in Gloucestershire, and one of only a few around the UK.Beth Aldren, CEO of New Brewery Arts, commented, “We are thrilled to be opening The Barrel Store which will help our sustainability and extend and support our work with craft, making and creativity.”
Caroline White, chief executive of YHA (England and Wales) added, “I am delighted to welcome YHA Cotswolds on board and into the YHA network of world class accommodation. By providing much-needed affordable accommodation in Cirencester, YHA Cotswolds will enable us to make the area of outstanding natural beauty accessible to many more young people and their families.”
Cirencester for groups
The market town of Cirencester has a lot to offer for groups.
Groups can discover the history of Cirencester at the Corinium Museum, which displays an extensive collection of archaeological and social history artefacts, most of which are refurbished on site.
A visit to the Bathrust Estate will allow sporty types to watch various levels of polo at what is said to be one of the most historic clubs in the country. The estate also has the clubhouse and the Thatched Bar serving lunch and refreshments on Sundays.
For more information visit www.yha.org.uk or www.newbreweryarts.org.uk.
