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North Wall Arts Centre Oxford

4.7
·293 reviews·, United Kingdom

A vibrant arts centre in Oxford featuring diverse exhibitions, intimate theatre performances, and engaging workshops.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Exhibition opening nights

Meet artists & enjoy lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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The North Wall Arts Centre - Image 1

North Wall Arts Centre Oxford

Best Time

Exhibition opening nights

Meet artists & enjoy lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant arts centre in Oxford featuring diverse exhibitions, intimate theatre performances, and engaging workshops.

4.7
(293 reviews)

"Nice venue, but now there is even less free parking close to the theatre, even after 6pm, it makes it harder to access for people with mobility issues!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Event Listings

Always check the official website for current exhibitions and performance schedules.

🚌 Public Transport is Key

Parking can be difficult; consider the bus to Summertown and a short walk.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gallery Exhibitions

Gallery Exhibitions

Gallery Space

Discover diverse artworks from local and national artists, often with unique themes and mediums.

Instagram+2
Live Performances

Live Performances

Theatre

Experience a range of theatre, music, and dance in an intimate and well-regarded performance space.

Reddit
Artist Talks & Workshops

Artist Talks & Workshops

Various

Engage with artists and creators through talks and hands-on workshops, offering deeper insights into the arts.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Check Event Schedules

The North Wall Arts Centre hosts a variety of exhibitions and performances. Always check their official website for the latest event listings and booking information before your visit to avoid disappointment.

Parking & Accessibility

While the venue is accessible, parking can be tricky. Consider public transport or walking from Summertown if you have mobility issues or are visiting during peak times. Reddit

Best Times

When
Exhibition opening nights
Why
Meet artists & enjoy lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter gallery viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend workshops
Why
Family-friendly creative fun
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The most serene place ✨ #oxford #oxforduniversity #hiddengems #PlacesToVisit
@.catchmeifyouhan
188.8K likes • 1M views

🎯 Check Event Listings

Always check the official website for current exhibitions and performance schedules. Instagram+5

🚌 Public Transport is Key

Parking can be difficult; consider the bus to Summertown and a short walk. Reddit

#oxford #oxforduniversity #lightacademia #oxforduni
@juliaveronicas
94.6K likes • 417.1K views
Just look at these incredible works of art in progress heading for our exhibition at The North Wall next week! 👀 🖼️ 🎨 📅 24th Jan - 10th Feb 2024 📍North Wall Arts Centre, Summertown Oxford 💰 FREE to view. Artwork available to buy, all funds raised will support AT The Bus to deliver more art-as therapy workshops 🔗 link in bio for more info
at_the_bus
49 likes • 828 views

🖼️ Free Entry to Gallery

Many exhibitions are free to view, making it an accessible art experience. Instagram

🤝 Friendly Staff

Visitors often praise the welcoming and helpful nature of the staff. Reddit

Take a look at the bigger picture🖼 The Society of Wood Engraver’s 87th Annual Exhibition at North Wall Arts Centre, Oxford showcases intricate prints of the timeless tradition of wood engraving. I could stand in front of these pieces for hours, taking in every little detail. Exhibition dates: 2 September - 27 September 2025 Thank you for having us @thenorthwall @societyofwoodengravers
insistrum
0 likes • 464 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Event Listings

Always check the official website for current exhibitions and performance schedules. Instagram+5

🚌 Public Transport is Key

Parking can be difficult; consider the bus to Summertown and a short walk. Reddit

🖼️ Free Entry to Gallery

Many exhibitions are free to view, making it an accessible art experience. Instagram

🤝 Friendly Staff

Visitors often praise the welcoming and helpful nature of the staff. Reddit

🎶 Intimate Venue

Enjoy performances in a cozy setting with good stage views. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(293 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise The North Wall Arts Centre for its welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and the quality of its exhibitions and performances. It's noted as a great small venue with good stage views and accessible gallery spaces, though parking can be a challenge.

"I popped into the centre to pick up a brochure for upcoming events and was greeted by Nicky who was so welcoming and friendly. She also guided me through a short tour of the stunning artwork on display.
I'm looking forward to future shows this Spring and summer at this beautiful venue."

Lorraine Jackson

"Nice venue, but now there is even less free parking close to the theatre, even after 6pm, it makes it harder to access for people with mobility issues!"

Chess Black

"Watched Josh berry here. Great small venue"

James Gilbert

What People Like

Welcoming and friendly staff
Great small venue
Free gallery exhibitions

What People Dislike

Limited parking availability

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The North Wall Arts Centre is located in Summertown, Oxford. It's easily accessible by public transport, with buses frequently running to Summertown. Parking can be challenging, so using public transport is often recommended, especially for evening events. Reddit

Parking at the North Wall Arts Centre can be limited and sometimes tricky, especially after 6 pm. It's advisable to check current parking regulations or opt for public transport. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Oxford city centre to the North Wall Arts Centre, taking approximately 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Summertown and walk from there. Reddit

The nearest public transport hub is Summertown, which is well-served by local bus routes. From Summertown, it's a short walk to the Arts Centre. Reddit

The venue is generally good for accessibility, but parking can be an issue for those with mobility challenges. It's best to contact the venue directly to discuss specific needs regarding access and parking. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Many exhibitions at the North Wall Arts Centre offer free entry, allowing visitors to enjoy the art without a ticket. However, for specific performances or ticketed events, booking in advance is recommended. Instagram

Entry to the gallery for exhibitions is often free. Ticket prices for performances and special events vary, so it's best to check the specific event details on their website. Instagram

The most up-to-date information on upcoming events, exhibitions, and performances can be found on the official North Wall Arts Centre website. Instagram+5

For performances, it's advisable to book tickets in advance as popular shows can sell out. For free exhibitions, you can usually just walk in during opening hours. Reddit

Concession information, if available, will be detailed on the specific event pages on the North Wall Arts Centre website. It's always worth checking for student, senior, or group discounts. Reddit

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The North Wall Arts Centre showcases a diverse range of art, including paintings, sculptures, and prints, often featuring local and emerging artists. They also host various performing arts events. Instagram+5

Yes, the North Wall Arts Centre often hosts family-friendly events and workshops, such as chalking parties, making it a great destination for all ages. Instagram

Visitors describe the venue as lovely and intimate, with a friendly atmosphere thanks to the welcoming staff. It's a great place to discover new art and enjoy performances. Reddit

While formal guided tours might not always be scheduled, the staff are known to be very welcoming and may offer insights into the artwork on display. Reddit

Yes, artwork displayed in exhibitions is often available for purchase, with funds sometimes supporting the artists or the venue's programs. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary depending on the exhibition or performance. It's best to check for any signage or ask staff if photography is permitted, especially for exhibitions. Instagram

The artwork itself often provides excellent photo opportunities, especially the intricate details in wood engravings or the expressive nature of sculptures. The venue's architecture might also be photogenic. Instagram+1

Weekday afternoons, when the galleries are less crowded, might offer a more relaxed environment for photography. Always be mindful of other visitors and any specific venue rules. Reddit

Sculptures like 'AWE-RA' by Laura Azevedo are noted for their intriguing nature, inviting curiosity and potentially great photos. Instagram

Consider using hashtags like #NorthWallArtsCentre, #OxfordArt, #Summertown, and specific exhibition or artist hashtags to connect with the local art community. Instagram+5

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The North Wall Arts Centre is a fantastic spot for families looking for creative and engaging activities. They frequently host family-friendly events, such as the 'Tiny Ideas Festival' which includes chalking parties, making it a fun, drop-in experience for children. Instagram The venue's welcoming atmosphere and the accessibility of free exhibitions also make it a great outing for a relaxed family day. Reddit

When planning a visit, consider checking their schedule for specific workshops or performances tailored to younger audiences. While parking can be a challenge, the ease of access via public transport to Summertown makes it manageable for families. The intimate theatre setting also means children can often get a good view of the stage during performances. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts on a Budget

For art lovers, The North Wall Arts Centre is a gem, especially since many of its gallery exhibitions are free to view. This allows you to immerse yourself in diverse artistic expressions without any cost. Instagram You can spend hours admiring the works of local and national artists, from detailed prints to vibrant paintings. Instagram+1

Beyond the free exhibitions, the venue also offers affordable ticketed performances and workshops. Keep an eye on their event listings for special offers or community days. The welcoming staff and the opportunity to potentially purchase artwork directly from artists also add value to the experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Art Scene

The North Wall Arts Centre is a vibrant hub for contemporary art in Oxford, regularly featuring exhibitions that highlight both established and emerging artists. From intricate wood engravings to bold paintings and thought-provoking sculptures, the gallery offers a diverse visual experience. Many of these exhibitions are free to enter, making art accessible to everyone. Instagram+5

Beyond static displays, the centre also engages visitors through artist talks and workshops. These events provide a unique opportunity to connect with creators, understand their processes, and gain deeper insights into the art world. For instance, events like 'Call and Response' invite direct interaction with artists and their work, fostering a more personal connection. Instagram+1

Visitors often praise the quality of the artwork and the welcoming atmosphere, noting the friendly staff who are happy to share information about the pieces. This combination of engaging exhibitions and community-focused events solidifies the North Wall Arts Centre's role as a significant cultural destination in Oxford.

Performance and Theatre

As a performing arts space, The North Wall Arts Centre hosts a variety of theatre productions, music concerts, and dance performances. Its theatre is described as a 'great small venue' with good views of the stage, offering an intimate setting for audiences. This makes it ideal for experiencing both professional touring shows and local productions. Reddit

The centre is known for its diverse programming, catering to different tastes and age groups. From family-friendly shows like 'The Snow Queen' to more contemporary theatre, there's often something for everyone. The venue's accessibility via public transport further enhances its appeal for attending evening performances. Reddit

Attending a performance at The North Wall Arts Centre provides a chance to support local arts and enjoy high-quality entertainment in a comfortable and engaging environment. The positive feedback on the venue's acoustics and stage visibility contributes to its reputation as a well-regarded performance space.

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