About the Red Brick Building
The Red Brick Building is a community-owned arts and events centre in Glastonbury. Housed in the restored Morlands Tannery (a former sheepskin factory), it opened as an arts venue in 2013 after volunteers saved the derelict site (feeds.bbci.co.uk ). The main hall is an exposed red-brick space (about 2,000 sq ft) with rustic timber floors (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). It can hold roughly 350 standing (or 150–200 for casual receptions) and seats about 88 (for formal dinners) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Signature features include its preserved brickwork and an eye-catching “Peace Flame” installation (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) – a community symbol unique to the venue. Built to celebrate Glastonbury’s industrial heritage, the building (A and B blocks) now serves as a creative hub, housing local businesses like Glastonbury FM radio and artisan studios (Avalon Cloaks, design firms, etc.) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). It stands as a flagship community centre: run by a small staff and volunteers, it aims to boost local arts, training and enterprise, improving wellbeing and the local economy (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). This historic, multi-use venue has become central to Glastonbury’s cultural scene, mixing heritage charm with modern amenities.
Events and Programming
Red Brick presents a very diverse lineup. It hosts live music (rock, pop, jazz, folk, electronic and world genres), DJ and dance nights, comedy shows, theatre, spoken word, art exhibitions, and plenty of community events and classes. Regular programmes include Sunday lunchtime jazz sessions (often free entry) featuring local bands, monthly dub/reggae DJ nights, dance fundraisers (e.g. global music workshops), and occasional big-band performances. Recent line-ups illustrate its eclectic mix: for example, on reopening its renovated hall the venue booked a Palestinian dance fundraiser, Sunday jazz brunch with the Wells Jazz Collective, a Cubana orchestra, singer-songwriter Mark Chadwick, funk/rock by Huey Morgan, and headline act Dreadzone – a British electronic dub band (glastonbury.nub.news ). Smaller events span art and dance classes, kids’ workshops, and community meetups (Glastonbury youth club meets here weekly for ages 10–19 (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk )). Notable past concerts have ranged from veteran pop acts (Toploader in 2023) to electronica DJs (Eat Static) and reggae/dancecollectives (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Tickets vary by show – big concerts tend to be £20–£25, while many community nights are free or by donation (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Event frequency is high, with multi-day festivals (art exhibitions, Open Studios, school activities, etc.) and weekly/bi-weekly gigs throughout the year.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are usually sold through the Red Brick Building’s box office and website. You can call the venue at 01458 899564 to enquire or reserve tickets (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Advance sales often open weeks (sometimes months) before a show. Popular gigs may sell out, so it’s best to book early. Major concerts (like rock or dance acts) have advance desktop sales and sometimes local presales. Smaller events (jazz afternoons, community classes) are often free or sold at the door. Typical ticket prices range from free (for charity or jazz events) up to about £22.50–£25 for headline acts (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). There are usually tiered prices (e.g. £22.50 early, £25 on the night for bands). Box office/venue hours tend to follow the building schedule: generally 9am–5pm on weekdays and extended later on event nights (9am–11pm Tue–Thu, until 1am Fri/Sat) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). For sold-out shows, a small number of entry-only tickets may be released at the door; otherwise, consider joining a waitlist if available.
Seating and Layout
The main hall is a flexible open-plan space. It has a raised stage at one end and a wide wooden dance floor. There are no fixed tiered seats – instead the venue provides moveable chairs, sofas and coffee tables as needed (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Casual lounge seating (four sofas, coffee tables) is often placed up front or along the sides, and extra chairs/tables can be added, but most live music nights are general-admission standing. Rearranged after its latest renovation, the hall is now one large open area (a former partition wall has been removed (glastonbury.nub.news )), so most vantage points are fairly level. The acoustics are typical of a medium-sized brick hall – for the best view and sound, standing near the center or front area usually works well. For seated events (weddings or dinners) the room can be arranged with around 88 banquet-style seats (top table plus eight rounds) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). In practice, early arrivals often claim the front or middle of the floor for dancing, while friends or seniors often sit on sofas or café tables toward the back. The stage is well-equipped with professional PA and lighting rigs (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ), so performers face the audience from one end. There are a few wall-mounted speakers, but no balconies or obstructed-view seats – avoid extreme side-corners if possible for best sightlines.
Getting There and Parking
The Red Brick Building is on Morland Road (A361), between Glastonbury and Street (postcode BA6 9FT) (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). It’s easy to reach by car: free on-site parking is available (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Enter via Morland Enterprise Park and park in the lot. Disabled drivers have three marked bays by the entrance (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Note: if you use the car park you must log your vehicle registration at reception (via the tablet) on each visit (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) to avoid fines. For drop-off/pick-up, the building frontage on Morland Road is convenient for taxis or rideshares. Cyclists can use the bike stands provided on site (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ).
Public buses serve the venue on the main road. The local route 376 stops right outside, linking Glastonbury and Street with nearby towns (e.g. southwestern Somerset and Bath areas) (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). From Highway or Bath/Taunton: take the 376 into Glastonbury or Street and alight at the Red Brick stop. If arriving by train: Glastonbury itself has no station. Nearest railheads are Bristol Temple Meads or Taunton, both with connecting buses (the 376 from Bristol and the 29 from Taunton go to Glastonbury (glastonbury.uk )). Castle Cary is another option (about 16 miles away); from there a limited bus (667) goes to Street, but many guests prefer renting a car or taxi. In short, the venue is car-friendly with reliable free parking, and reachable by regional buses if needed (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (glastonbury.uk ).
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, visitors enter through the ground-floor lobby. There’s usually a reception desk where tickets are checked or purchased, and staff can assist with directions. Expect a quick security check (as at most event venues). The building has a relaxed, community vibe – locals and families mix with concert-goers. The interior layout includes a large open hall, plus smaller rooms upstairs (e.g. a first-floor Studio space for classes) and a café/bar area. During events, the licensed café (the Red Brick Kitchen & Bar, formerly “The Old Tannery”) sells drinks and light snacks (coffee, cake, sandwiches) (glastonbury.nub.news ). Note: some events have the upstairs bar/restaurant closed; check ahead. A well-equipped sound system and stage lighting are provided for performers (speakers, microphones, projector/screen and fairy lights are available) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Free public Wi-Fi is provided throughout the building (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ), and the space is fitted with amenities like air conditioning and heating for comfort.
Facilities: There are restrooms on each floor, including fully accessible toilets and a baby-change room on the ground floor (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). A hearing loop is installed for the main hall and lounge (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). A lift connects to the first-floor Studio, making all levels wheelchair-accessible (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Engineers have reinforced the structure (eight support pillars) in recent renovations, so the space feels sturdy and open (glastonbury.nub.news ). There’s no formal cloakroom – bag storage is limited, so bring only essentials. Merchandise or snack stalls may appear near the entrance or café at larger events. Expect friendly, informal service – staff often include volunteers happy to answer questions. Dress is casual (it can get warm on a crowded dance floor, so dress layers are smart). If you plan to drink alcohol, bring ID if you look under 21, as the bar serves 18+. Smoking is prohibited indoors (as required by law); if you smoke, designated outdoor areas are provided.
Nearby Amenities
Just around the corner and a short walk away are several conveniences. A Brewers Fayre pub-restaurant (with bar and family meals) lies only ~0.2 miles down Morland Road (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Street Town Centre (0.4 mi) has shops, cafés and takeaways. Glastonbury town (<1 mi) has a vibrant High Street with pubs (such as the historic George & Pilgrim Inn), vegetarian cafes and restaurants. Notable eateries include Holy Cow vegan café, ZamZama Indian restaurant, The Red Lion pub and more in town. For a quick bite, the on-site Red Brick Kitchen serves light meals all day (the “Old Tannery” is well-reviewed (glastonbury.nub.news )).
Hotels and lodging are nearby. Premier Inn Glastonbury is only ~0.15 mi away and Travelodge is ~0.45 mi out, as are local B&Bs and inns (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). A Holiday Inn/Travelodge is in nearby Street too. For those needing transit, Street has a convenient bus depot. The Glastonbury Tor, Chalice Well and Abbey (major sights) are about 1–1.5 mi from Red Brick – guests often stay in Glastonbury and walk or bus into town for attractions before or after shows. Local taxi services (e.g. JJs Taxis) also serve the area, and asked to pre-book on event nights. Late-night train or airport service is best from Bristol or Taunton (each ~30–45 min drive), rather than trying to connect from Street.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Red Brick Building’s story and spirit set it apart. It’s built in the 19th-century Morlands tannery, which once employed thousands locally (feeds.bbci.co.uk ) – a piece of Somerset’s industrial heritage rediscovered by the community. Locals often say it “found a new role” instead of being demolished (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Today it’s a beacon of community creativity: not just a music venue, but a workspace, studio and gathering spot forged by volunteers. Its character shines through – as described on the venue’s pages, “beautiful exposed brickwork and rustic floor” evoke a vintage charm (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). The unique Peace Flame memorial adds to the atmosphere, symbolising unity at this former industrial site (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Culturally, RBB is woven into Glastonbury life – it even houses the independent Glastonbury FM radio (broadcasting locally) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ), and offers a youth club for ages 10–19 (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Its management highlights measurable community benefits: boosting confidence, reducing isolation and bolstering the local creative economy (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). In practice, patron reviews note it feels like a true “community hub” – visitors appreciate the friendly vibe and the chance to dance to a big band on VE Day or learn from local artists. For performers, it’s beloved for its intimate yet energetic setting; for audiences, it’s treasured as a warm, inclusive venue rooted in Glastonbury’s history and spirit.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: All ground-floor rooms have step-free access (ramp and lift) and there are accessible toilets (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Hearing loops are fitted in performance areas (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). If you need disabled parking, three marked bays are next to the entrance (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Wheelchair users should enter via the main entrance (or the side ramp entrance if specified) and can reach the first-floor Studio by lift (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ).
Plan Ahead: Check event times on the venue’s social media or website. Doors for evening shows often open 30–60 minutes before the advertised start, so arrive early to get a good spot. Since parking is free but limited, come 15–20 minutes early on busy nights. Car registrations must be input at reception each visit to avoid parking tickets (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). On public transit days, plan for an extra 10–15 min travel to the bus stop. There’s cycle parking if you bike.
Tickets: Print or download your ticket in advance whenever possible. The venue phone (01458 899564 (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk )) can answer queries. For popular gigs, we recommend buying tickets weeks ahead online or by phone. If tickets remain on the day, they’ll be sold at reception or door. Ticket prices vary: bring cash or card (mostly card is accepted at the desk).
Security and Policies: Expect a friendly bag check at the door. Small cameras and phones are generally allowed for personal photos (but please turn off any flash). No large professional cameras or tripods without permission. The staff prohibits weapons, illegal substances or pyrotechnics – standard safety rules apply. Outside food/drink is discouraged (there’s an onsite bar and café); personal snack beverages are usually tolerated but outside alcohol/mixers are not. Dress code is informal – smart-casual clothing is fine. For late-night gigs, consider earplugs if you’re sensitive to volume. Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas per law, so step outside if you need to smoke.
Facilities: The venue has a free coat check area (often just a rack beside reception). Free Wi-Fi is available throughout (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). The Red Brick Kitchen & Bar sells coffee, soft drinks, beer and food (open from breakfast until closing in most cases) (glastonbury.nub.news ). Restrooms and water fountains are clearly signed on each floor. Bring a scarf or jacket if temperatures fall in winter, as large events can make the hall warm.
Kids and Families: Many events welcome all ages – children can enjoy features like the first-floor Studio (kids’ art and family yoga sessions are held regularly). The Red Brick Youth Club caters to ages 10–19 (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). For concerts, under-16s should be accompanied by an adult. Always double-check any age restrictions on a specific event listing. Baby-changing facilities are provided in the ground-floor restrooms, making the venue family-friendly for younger children as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I buy tickets for events at the Red Brick Building?
Tickets are typically sold via the venue’s own box office. You can purchase them online through the Red Brick Building’s website or by calling the venue (phone 01458 899564 (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk )). For major concerts, advance tickets usually go on sale weeks before the event. A limited number of tickets (if unsold) may be available at the door on the night, but it’s best to book early, especially for popular shows.
What are typical ticket prices?
Prices vary by event. Community or charity nights (like Sunday jazz) are often free or by donation (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Most concerts range from about £10 up to £20–£25 for headline acts (for example, a recent Toploader concert was £22.50–£25 (redbrickbuilding.co.uk )). Workshops and classes can have their own fees (e.g. art classes or youth sessions around £1–10). Check the specific event listing for exact prices; some events also offer concession rates.
Is there a box office on-site and what are its hours?
Yes. The Red Brick Building’s box office is at reception. It generally follows the building’s opening hours: Monday 9am–5pm, Tuesday to Thursday 9am–11pm, and Friday/Saturday 9am–up to 1am depending on events (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). You can visit in person during those times to pick up or buy tickets, or call ahead at 01458 899564 (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). On event days, arrive at least 30–60 minutes before start time if buying at the door.
Is there parking available at the venue and is it free?
Yes. The Red Brick Building offers free on-site parking for visitors (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Just enter via Morland Road into the Morland Enterprise Park car park. Three designated disabled parking bays are next to the entrance (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). One tip: if you park here, log your vehicle registration number on the tablet at reception each visit (failure to do so could incur a parking fine) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). The bank holiday and evening crowds can fill up the lot, so it’s wise to arrive early on busy nights.
How do I get to the Red Brick Building by bus or train?
By bus: The local route 376 stops on the A361 right outside the venue (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). This connects to Glastonbury and Street and links to other regional services. By train: Glastonbury has no station. The nearest major stations are Bristol Temple Meads or Taunton – from either, you can take a bus (376 from Bristol, 29 from Taunton) to Glastonbury. Castle Cary station is ~16 miles away; local bus 667 goes toward Street, but service is infrequent (glastonbury.uk ). Many visitors find it easiest to take a train to Bristol or Taunton and then a connecting coach or taxi to Glastonbury.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The ground floor is fully wheelchair-accessible via the main entrance, which has a ramp (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). An interior elevator (lift) connects the lobby to the first floor, so even the upstairs studio can be reached (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Accessible (disabled) toilets are available on the ground floor. A hearing loop system is installed in the main event spaces (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). If you need assistance, venue staff are happy to help navigate, and there are reserved disabled parking spaces on site (redbrickbuilding.co.uk ).
Can I bring my camera or record the shows?
Small personal cameras and smartphones are generally allowed for casual photos or videos. Patrons often snap memories of shows or diagrams on the wall. However, professional photography equipment (DSLRs with big lenses, tripods, etc.) usually needs prior permission due to other guests’ comfort and performer rights. Flash photography during performances is not permitted. If in doubt, ask a staff member at the entrance. (Personal use only – no livestreaming or large video rigs without approval.)
Are children and families allowed in?
Yes, many events are family-friendly. The venue even runs an official Youth Club for ages 10–19 on Wednesday evenings (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Parents frequently bring younger kids to weekend daytime events or art workshops. For evening concerts, check the event listing; some late-night or ticketed gigs may be 18+, in which case under-18s must be accompanied by an adult. Baby-changing facilities and children’s restrooms are provided. Overall it’s a community centre atmosphere, but always double-check age restrictions on a specific show.
Is there food and drink for sale inside?
Yes. The venue has a café/bar on site called the Red Brick Kitchen & Bar (also known as the Old Tannery) (glastonbury.nub.news ). It serves hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals (sandwiches, soups, cakes) for the duration of most events. On evenings, it offers beer and wine too. If the restaurant area isn’t open, staff often bring out coffee and treats during breaks or before shows. Outside food is generally discouraged, but you are welcome to grab something at the café when you arrive or in the intermission. Outside the venue, there are pubs and takeaways within a 5–10 minute walk if you want a full meal beforehand.
Does the venue offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the Red Brick Building (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). Look for the network named “RedBrickBuilding” (or ask staff for details). It’s reliable enough to check emails or post on social media, though it may slow down when the venue is very full. Feel free to connect on arrival to share photos or to find your tickets.
Which train station is closest to the Red Brick Building?
There is no train station in Glastonbury itself. The nearest stations are Bristol Temple Meads and Taunton. From Bristol or Taunton, you can take a local bus (such as the 376 from Bristol or the 29 from Taunton) to Glastonbury – these routes stop near Morland Road (glastonbury.uk ). Castle Cary station is another option (about 16 miles away), but it only offers an infrequent bus to Street, so most visitors find a taxi or car easier from Castle Cary. In short, plan to arrive by rail into a nearby city (Bristol or Taunton) and then continue by bus or taxi to reach Glastonbury and the Red Brick Building (glastonbury.uk ).
Are dogs or pets allowed inside the venue?
Only assistance dogs are permitted indoors. The Red Brick Building follows standard UK venue policy: no pets or animals allowed inside except guide dogs or medical assistance animals. If you bring a service dog, let staff know at the entrance and they will accommodate. Other animals should remain outside (and for safety/comfort of all guests, it’s best not to leave pets in parked cars that could heat up).
What are the venue’s opening hours?
Generally, reception is open daily from 9:00 am. Closing times vary: Monday closes at 5:00 pm; Tuesday–Thursday at 11:00 pm; and Friday/Saturday up to 1:00 am depending on events (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). On event days, late hours correspond to the show schedule – if your concert runs late, the venue stays open until it’s over. The café/bar follows similar hours (for example, it often opens with reception and stays open during evening gigs until at least midnight).
Can I hire the Red Brick Building for a private event or wedding?
Yes, the main hall (Event Space) is available for private hire. It’s often used for weddings, parties and corporate events. The venue’s event hire page notes a seated capacity of 88 (banquet style) or up to 350 standing (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). The space is equipped with tables, chairs, sound and lighting rigs (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ) (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ), and you can decorate it to suit your occasion. Rates start at a few hundred pounds for half- or full-day rental (contact the venue for a quote). The on-site kitchen/bar can serve catering, and there is free parking for your guests. (Tip: because it’s in a historic building, decor adds lots of charm.)
What is the “Peace Flame” mentioned on the site?
The Peace Flame is an artistic installation unique to the Red Brick Building. Located inside the main hall, it’s a symbolic flame (often lit) that represents peace and community. The venue’s wedding page highlights it as a “special touch… completely unique to the Red Brick Building” (www.redbrickbuilding.co.uk ). It adds an atmospheric glow during events and serves as a reminder of the building’s heritage and values – the organizers maintain it as a unique feature when decorating the space. (If you visit, you can usually see or learn about the Peace Flame during an open event or tour.)
