'We're incredibly proud': Powder Monkey Brewery receives double blue plaque recognition for historic site
Two blue plaques have recognised the history at a former naval site
The site of a former naval ammunition facility, now operating as a brewery, has been commemorated with two blue plaques highlighting its history.
Powder Monkey Brewing Co, in Priddy’s Hard, Gosport, has celebrated receiving blue plaques at two of its historic buildings - the “E” Magazine and the former Case Store & Rolling Way.
The markers are permanent signs commemorating the historical links between the site and the famous buildings.
The plaques, which have been awarded courtesy of The Gosport Society, celebrate not only the heritage of these listed structures but also their successful restoration and repurposing by Powder Monkey Brewing Co.
Andy Burdon, CEO of Powder Monkey, said: "We’re incredibly proud to receive this recognition for two such historic sites. Brewing has always been about more than just beer—it’s about community, history, and keeping those stories alive. We’re proud to play our part in preserving and celebrating Gosport’s heritage.”
Priddy’s Hard was originally developed as a Royal Ordnance Yard following the construction of defensive ramparts around 1760. The site played a vital role in arming the Royal Navy, housing gunpowder and later cordite in purpose-built magazines.
The “E” Magazine is a Grade II listed building constructed in 1878/79, and served as both a powder and cordite magazine.
After being vacant for a number of years, the site fell into a state of deterioration, prompting Powder Monkey Brewing Co to undertake a careful restoration project to turn it into a working brewery.
The nearby Case Store and Rolling Way, which is also a grade II listed building dating back to the late 19th century, reflects the continued evolution of naval ordnance.
The Rolling Way once enabled the safe transport of explosives from Camber Harbour to the laboratory complex, while the Case Store supported the transition to shell-based naval weaponry—marking a pivotal shift in naval warfare from the age of sail to the era of Dreadnought battleships.
Councillor Kirsten Bradley, Mayor of Gosport, said: “On behalf of Gosport, I would like to say well done and thank you to Powder Monkey Brewing Company for taking on the restoration and re-purposing of two important listed buildings.
“This work not only helps preserve our town’s heritage, but also makes a valuable contribution to the local community by supporting businesses and creating employment opportunities.”
Since opening its Tap House in 2021, Powder Monkey has served over 270,000 pints brewed on-site in the “E” Magazine, which is the equivalent to more than 158,000 litres.