Owned by James Paine (1789-1855), who originally ran the Great Paxton Farm. Around 1831, Paine decided to enter trade, including milling, brewing and merchanting business, as well as brick kilns. After James Paine’s death, the brewery passed to one of his sons, William Paine and then later to John and Alexander McNish in 1882.

Unfortunately, in 1905, the brewery and stone flour mill in the market square were destroyed in a fire, causing the business to be moved into a vacant building at the edge of the square.

The brewery operated until 1987, when the business was shut down. Throughout the years, certain speciality beers were brewed here. For example, multiple Christmas beers were brewed, or one brewed in 1986 celebrating the royal wedding of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson. Some of the Paine’s bottles can be seen at the museum, as well as the old pump which visitors may have seen from the window when passing by. The old pump was used to transport wort from the ground floor to the top floor of the brewery, where it could be cooled off. The pump was later replaced by an electric one and donated to the museum.

 

 

Although it no longer exists, the Paine’s brewery is still remembered by many who grew up and lived in St. Neots and the local area.

Written by Evie whilst on work experience at St Neots Museum.