Venues

Title

Venues

Description

This database contains an indicative list of sites within the UK where open-air theatre performances have occurred. While it is not possible to create a fully comprehensive record due to the range and diversity of sites in which occasional outdoor performances might take place, this database contains details of various open-air theatres, amphitheatres, and sites at which outdoor theatre performances have taken place on a regular or semi-regular basis. Wherever possible, we have included links to venue websites, which in many cases will also contain further details about the site's history of open-air productions and/or information about any upcoming performances. We hope that this database and the accompanying map will help you to learn more about open-air theatre in your local area, and/or identify where you might go to stage or experience an open-air production this summer!

If you have suggestions for venues that are not yet listed in our database but which meet these criteria, please feel free to email the project team at: atmospherictheatre@exeter.ac.uk.

Collection Items

Willow Globe
The Willow Globe (Y Glôb Byw) is a scaled down, living version of the Globe in London. Woven from willow, it is almost completely absorbed by its lush, green surroundings in summer months. The Willow Globe, which is situated in the mid-Welsh…

Lydiard Park is a beautiful historic estate on the western edge of Swindon. Lydiard Park runs an annual events programme that sometimes includes open air theatre productions.

The Bowood Estate in Wiltshire hosts various events including occasional outdoor theatre productions.

Williamson Park in Lancaster contains an amphitheatre, and hosts outdoor theatre productions including the Dukes' annual Play in the Park.

Wharton Park contains an amphitheatre at which events including outdoor theatre productions are performed.

Minack Theatre
The Minack Theatre is a world famous theatre is perched on the rugged cliffs of South-West Cornwall, staging a wide variety of shows each year.The Minack was built by hand by Rowena Cade and her team, who carved a stage and seating area into the…

Raby Castle is surrounded by 200 acres of lush green parkland, including five acres of traditional eighteenth-century walled gardens. Seasonal open-air theatre productions take place in the East Garden.

Durham World Heritage Site includes Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, with plays, talks and other events often taking place at the site.

The Bowes Museum, which houses internationally significant collections of fine and decorative arts, occasionally hosts outdoor theatre productions as part of its seasonal events programme.

Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens is an estate of 500 acres in the heart of the Durham countryside, which hosts events including occasional outdoor theatre productions.
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