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The North Wall Arts Centre

About

The North Wall Arts Centre in Summertown, Oxford, is an award‑winning theatre, gallery, and creative hub dedicated to showcasing bold, innovative work. Opened in 2007 on the site of a former Victorian swimming pool, its striking design by Haworth Tompkins blends contemporary architecture with historic features, earning multiple accolades. Owned by St Edward’s School and shared with the public, it houses a flexible 200‑seat theatre, rehearsal spaces, and a light‑filled gallery. The North Wall presents a vibrant year‑round programme of contemporary theatre, comedy, music, dance, and visual arts, alongside its renowned ArtsLab initiative, which supports emerging artists through residencies and workshops. Committed to nurturing creativity and accessibility, it has hosted acclaimed performers from Eddie Izzard to Camille O’Sullivan, while offering a platform for new voices and experimental work. With its intimate atmosphere and adventurous spirit, The North Wall is a cornerstone of Oxford’s cultural life, inspiring audiences and artists alike.

Oxford United Kingdom
The North Wall Arts Centre
Location

The North Wall Arts Centre is located on South Parade in the heart of Summertown, Oxford (OX2 7JN), two miles north of the city centre and easily accessible by frequent bus routes or a short taxi journey from Oxford’s rail stations. Housed in an award-winning, contemporary space with a striking fusion of historic and modern architecture, it offers a lively programme of theatre, music, comedy, dance, talks, exhibitions, and creative workshops. Situated in Summertown’s thriving neighbourhood, the centre is close to independent boutiques, bookshops, cafés, and acclaimed restaurants, making it ideal for a cultural day out. Just steps away, visitors will find the Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Summertown Library, and Alexandra Courts park; a little further, the expansive green oasis of Port Meadow and the River Thames provide peaceful walks. Oxford’s city centre—home to the Ashmolean Museum, University Parks, and the Bodleian Library—is within a short bus or bike ride, ensuring the North Wall is perfectly placed for exploring both local gems and Oxford’s historic attractions.

Ashmolean Museum Ashmolean Museum Museum Museum of Oxford Museum of Oxford Museum Oxford University Museum of Natural History Oxford University Museum of Natural History Museum Pitt Rivers Museum Pitt Rivers Museum Museum History of Science Museum History of Science Museum Museum Bate Collection of Musical Instruments Bate Collection of Musical Instruments Museum Science Oxford Centre Science Oxford Centre Museum The Story Museum The Story Museum Museum Oxford Illusion Museum Oxford Illusion Museum Museum Abingdon County Hall Museum Abingdon County Hall Museum Museum The painted room The painted room Museum Christ Church Picture Gallery Christ Church Picture Gallery Museum Convocation House Convocation House Museum Oxford Bus Museum Oxford Bus Museum Museum Oxford Playhouse Oxford Playhouse Theatre New Theatre Oxford New Theatre Oxford Theatre Pegasus Theatre Pegasus Theatre Theatre Burton Taylor Studio Burton Taylor Studio Theatre Modern Art Oxford Modern Art Oxford Gallery Ovada Ovada Gallery Sarah Wiseman Galler Sarah Wiseman Galler Gallery Castle Fine Art Oxford Castle Fine Art Oxford Gallery Oxford Castle & Prison Oxford Castle & Prison Castle The Grandpont House The Grandpont House Historical sites Christ Church College Christ Church College College Radcliffe Camera Radcliffe Camera Library Sheldonian Theatre Sheldonian Theatre Theatre Carfax Tower Carfax Tower Historical Landmark Martyrs’ Memorial Martyrs’ Memorial Memorial Bridge of Sighs Bridge of Sighs Bridge University Parks University Parks Park Christ Church Meadow Christ Church Meadow Park South Park South Park Park Port Meadow Port Meadow Park Oxford Botanic Garden Oxford Botanic Garden Botanical Garden Oxford Covered Market Oxford Covered Market Market Gloucester Green Market Gloucester Green Market Market East Oxford Farmers’ & Community Market East Oxford Farmers’ & Community Market Market