Bristol’s first ‘disability-led brewery’ has announced its ‘imminent’ closure. Tapestry by Props, which supports adults with learning disabilities by giving them a job with access to practical learning, skills development and accessible work-based experiences, has shocked fans and locals with news it is to close.
The brewery at Totterdown Bridge Industrial Estate shared the announcement in a post to its Instagram page on Wednesday (October 23). It said: “Hey everyone – It’s with deep regret that we have to announce the imminent closure of Tapestry by Props.
“Unfortunately, after two years of trading we will be permanently ending the project, with our last day of service being Saturday 2nd November. We are hoping to go out with a bang and reminisce on the good times we’ve shared with you all, and would love to see you down here for one last dance!
“It’s been an invaluable experience for Props, as well for myself (Cal) and Tom. We are so thankful for the support from the Bristol community, our peers in the brewing and hospitality industry, all of you who chose us as a venue for your wonderful events, and everyone who’s joined us for a beer.
“Most of all we’d like to thank the trainees from Props who have put so much passion and energy into Tapestry, we have learnt so much from you all and hope you have enjoyed your time working alongside us on such a variety of things – from art exhibitions to poetry nights, music showcases to beer label designs, brewing many beers at Tapestry and with our collaborative partners. We could not have done it without you!
“The work of Props Bristol continues regardless, at our sister cafe @craftedbyprops as well as within the many other enterprises and projects that Props run. We sincerely ask that you continue to give your support to Props, as the mission is integral and they do such important work across Bristol and South Gloucestershire providing opportunity and support to adults with learning disabilities, as well as promoting independence and creativity.
We’d love to hear some of your memories or experiences you’ve had at Tapestry over the last two years, feel free to share in the comments! Thank you so much for everything, Tapestry Team.”
Tapestry opened in its South Bristol taproom and brewery location back in September 2022 and is staffed by adults with learning disabilities through the citywide charity, Props, which provides employment through social enterprise projects. The charity first began as a day centre for adults with learning disabilities around 20 years ago but has evolved into sourcing meaningful work opportunities over the years.
Props have boasted several of its own social enterprises over recent years, including horticulture, a cafe, a printmaker and shop on Fishponds Road, to offer a pathway to employment. It purchased the brewery site in early 2021 and, upon opening, brewed, designed and launched three of its own beers made on site.
Its cafe in Fishponds, Crafted by Props, opened in November 2023 and will remain open following Tapestry’s closure. Situated on Fishponds Road, it’s been serving up jacket potatoes, toasties, tray bikes, cakes, pastries, frittatas and more, ever since.
Taking to the comments section under the closure announcement today, fans and customers were quick to share their sadness at the news. One wrote: “I am so sad to read this. I have a boy with Down’s Syndrome and loved the idea there were cool places for him to learn a vocation and be able to choose a career, not be forced into limited options. Thanks for trying and for the continued work with props.”
A second said: “We had the best wedding/love party here. So sorry to hear this but so glad we got to enjoy it at its finest!” And a third added that the team “will be missed”.