Colchester Arts Centre St Mary-at-the-Walls
A vibrant arts hub in a historic converted church, offering diverse live music, comedy, and theatre in an intimate setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wonderful Wednesdays shows
Colchester Arts Centre St Mary-at-the-Walls
Best Time
Wonderful Wednesdays shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant arts hub in a historic converted church, offering diverse live music, comedy, and theatre in an intimate setting.
"A hidden gem of Colchester. Beautiful venue with charm and character."
🚗 Cheaper Parking Option
Use the venue's car park deal for cheaper rates than public parking.
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Popular acts sell out quickly; secure your spot early!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Music Performances
Main performance space
Experience a diverse range of musical acts, from indie bands to punk poets, in an intimate, historic setting.
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Comedy Nights
Main performance space
Laugh out loud at stand-up comedy shows featuring both local talent and renowned comedians.
The Converted Church Setting
Entire venue
Soak in the unique ambiance of this former church, complete with stained glass and a rich history.
Wonderful Wednesdays
Main performance space
Discover innovative fringe theatre and performance art every Wednesday with 'Pay What You Can' tickets.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Gigs
Embrace the Unique Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Cheaper Parking Option
Use the venue's car park deal for cheaper rates than public parking.
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Popular acts sell out quickly; secure your spot early! +1
🍻 Pre-Show Drinks & Food
Plenty of pubs nearby for a drink or bite before the show.
✨ Unique Venue Charm
Enjoy the intimate atmosphere of a converted church.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Cheaper Parking Option
Use the venue's car park deal for cheaper rates than public parking.
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Popular acts sell out quickly; secure your spot early! +1
🍻 Pre-Show Drinks & Food
Plenty of pubs nearby for a drink or bite before the show.
✨ Unique Venue Charm
Enjoy the intimate atmosphere of a converted church.
💰 Pay What You Can
Wonderful Wednesdays offer flexible ticket pricing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Colchester Arts Centre is widely praised as a hidden gem, celebrated for its unique charm as a converted church venue. Visitors highlight the high standard of performances, from live music to comedy, often at more affordable prices than mainstream venues. The staff are consistently described as welcoming and professional, contributing to a positive overall experience.
"A hidden gem of Colchester. Beautiful venue with charm and character. The shows and gigs here are always of a very high standard, often better than mainstream events for a smaller fee. The staff is very welcoming, nice choice of drinks and snacks at the bar. It deserves more recognition."
Dave 122
"Saw Solstice and Ebony Buckle in concert. Cute venue and easy to get to. Worth paying for the car park via the venue as it works out cheaper."
Andy Patmore
"Absolutely lovely Venue and the Comedian, Aurie Styla, was very very funny!
Nice to venue to attend, close by parking and plenty of pubs around the area to satisfy your needs should you want a drink / food before the venue opens."
Edward O'Dowd James
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arts Centre is located on a side street near the Mercury Theatre. For drivers, the St Mary's multi-storey car park is conveniently located across the main road via a footbridge.
Yes, the St Mary's multi-storey car park is nearby. The venue also offers a cheaper parking option if you pay via them.
If you're in Colchester town centre, it's easily walkable. It's situated in a central location, making it accessible on foot.
Colchester has good train links. From the station, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach the town centre and the venue.
While it's a historic building, the venue generally strives to be accessible. It's advisable to contact them directly to discuss specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the Colchester Arts Centre website or at the box office. For specific gigs, check the artist's own ticketing links.
Yes, 'Wonderful Wednesdays' offer a 'Pay What You Can' option, making them very accessible. Keep an eye out for other potential concessions.
It's often possible, but for popular events, it's highly recommended to book in advance to guarantee entry. +1
Opening hours can vary depending on scheduled events. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on when the venue opens for specific shows.
Refund policies can vary by event. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless an event is cancelled. Check the terms and conditions when purchasing.
🎫 🎤 Onsite Experience
You can find a wide range of live performances including concerts, comedy nights, theatre, spoken word, and DJ sets.
It's known for its intimate and charming atmosphere, being a converted church. Visitors often praise its unique character and welcoming vibe.
Yes, there's a bar serving a nice choice of drinks and snacks.
The acoustics are generally considered good, especially for live music performances, contributing to the intimate concert experience.
There is no formal dress code. Most attendees opt for casual and comfortable attire, suitable for enjoying a live performance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The venue offers a selection of drinks and snacks at the bar. For a full meal, there are many pubs and restaurants nearby.
Colchester town centre has numerous pubs and eateries offering various cuisines. Many are within walking distance of the Arts Centre.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the venue. It's best to consume these before entering or purchase from the bar.
The snack selection can vary. It's advisable to inquire at the bar upon arrival about current vegetarian or vegan offerings.
Absolutely! The intimate atmosphere, combined with great live music or comedy, makes it a perfect spot for a date night.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography policies can vary by event. For most gigs, personal photos are allowed, but professional recording is usually prohibited. Check with the venue or event promoter.
The stained glass windows and the overall church architecture offer great photo opportunities. The stage area during a performance can also be visually striking.
Generally, flash photography is discouraged as it can disrupt performers and other audience members. Always check venue rules.
The exterior of the former church, especially with its historic architecture, can make for interesting shots.
A camera with good low-light performance is ideal. Many attendees use their smartphones effectively, especially with the intimate lighting. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The venue's intimate size can be less intimidating for younger attendees, and the unique church setting can spark their imagination. When planning a visit with children, check the specific event listings for age recommendations. The 'Wonderful Wednesdays' program might also offer suitable, more experimental performances. Remember to consider the show's duration and any potential loud noises for very young children.
💰 Budget Travelers
This makes experiencing live arts incredibly accessible. Beyond the ticket price, the venue's central location means you can save on transport if you're staying nearby. Plus, the availability of affordable food and drink options in the surrounding pubs and the venue's own bar helps keep overall costs down.
couples
Choose a gig that suits your shared interests, whether it's a band you both love or a comedian you've been wanting to see. The close proximity to the stage ensures an engaging experience, fostering a shared enjoyment of the arts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of St Mary-at-the-Walls
The intimate setting is a direct result of its ecclesiastical origins. Unlike modern, purpose-built venues, the Arts Centre retains the charm and acoustics of a church. This means that whether you're attending a rock concert or a comedy show, you're likely to experience a more personal and engaging atmosphere. Even the facilities have garnered praise, with one visitor noting the 'award-winning toilet'!
This blend of history and contemporary arts makes Colchester Arts Centre a truly special destination. It's a place where the past and present converge, offering a memorable experience for all who visit. The venue's commitment to showcasing diverse talent within such a historic shell is a testament to its unique appeal.
Experiencing Live Music at the Arts Centre
and punk poets like John Cooper Clarke, the venue offers a platform for diverse musical talent. The intimate setting of the converted church ensures a close-up experience with the performers, making every gig feel special. Many artists and bands express their fondness for performing here. The acoustics are frequently praised, contributing to a rich sound experience for the audience.
+1For those looking for a more budget-friendly music experience, the 'Wonderful Wednesdays' program offers innovative performance work with a 'Pay What You Can' ticket option.
This initiative makes the arts accessible to a wider audience, further cementing the venue's community-focused ethos. Attending a gig here is more than just a concert; it's an immersion into a historic space filled with passionate music lovers. Comedy and Theatre: More Than Just Music
The venue actively supports fringe theatre and experimental performances through initiatives like 'Wonderful Wednesdays'.
This program provides a platform for innovative storytelling and performance art, attracting audiences interested in unique theatrical experiences. Shows like 'Tomyumsim: A Suffocating Choking Feeling' and 'Shôn Dale-Jones: Stories From An Invisible Town' demonstrate the diverse range of theatrical offerings. For those seeking alternative entertainment, the Arts Centre also hosts events like 'The Dark Room Meets The Sun', a blend of gaming and stand-up comedy, highlighting its commitment to eclectic programming.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit