HISTORY - c1718 - THE OLD MALTINGS - 2008

Downs Maltings c1718 is one of Biggleswade's last remaining Maltings. It was used to malt local barley. The malt was conveyed along the Ivel navigation to Kings Lynn and then by sea to London. Samuel Wells, already a brewer purchased the Maltings in 1864. The Brewery expanded over the next 200 years and became Wells & Winch in 1899 . An amalgamation with Green King took place in 1961.

For many years past Downs Malting's was used as a barrel store. It was then converted into a social club, canteen and reception opening in December 1976. Green King Brewery closed on 31st October 1997 and The Maltings became a training centre until 2004.

In 2003 SurfinCafé moved to Biggleswade's Market Square and in 2004 based it's food production, stores and offices at the Maltings. SurfinCafe's sandwiches, paninis and pastries are made at the Maltings fresh and delivered direct to the café's each morning. In 2007 The Surfin Group spent £250,000 converting The Old Maltings into a contemporary coffee lounge and from 1st Feb 2008 The Lounge @ the old maltings has become a Coffee Lounge, Wine and Bistro.