Autumn Opening Times – 1.30pm-4.30pm Thursday, Friday & Saturday. PLEASE NOTE, WE CLOSE AS A VISITOR CENTRE FROM DECEMBER 21ST – FEBRUARY 15TH FOR REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE.
Welcome to Stratford-upon-Avon’s heritage and arts centre, The Old Slaughterhouse! The Old Slaughterhouse Heritage and Arts Centre is a hidden gem in the very heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, home to local charity Escape Arts. Escape Arts is an art and well-being charity, welcoming all ages and abilities to take part in community art workshops. Operating in the town since 1997, in 2014, Escape transformed The Old Slaughterhouse, this forgotten, derelict Grade ll listed building and fully renovated it into a community centre, with support from Stratford Town Trust. The charity now operates from the building, which is where community art workshops are held alongside an exhibition space, with exhibitions showcasing local people and local stories. The building is steeped in local history and retains many of its unique and original architectural features. The site of The Old Slaughterhouse has a fascinating history which we explore further in our interactive timeline.
The Slaughterhouse and it’s site are steeped in social and industrial history. Research has revealed that it was formerly an 18th century ropewalk, 16th & 17th century pub called ‘The Crown’ and 15th century mill, prior to becoming a butcher’s in the 19th century. The site set in ‘The Lost Garden of Avon’ once a beautiful area rich in ornamental gardens, landscaped features and nature. For a virtual reality tour of our history, please visit our intereactive site timeline to be welcomed by our Ghosts of the Slaughterhouse themselves!
Now it hosts an arts cafe, shop, regular exhibitions, visual arts projects and digital archives, celebrating Stratford’s history, lives and stories. Whether you are interested in local history, the arts or want to explore Stratford’s past we’ve got something for everyone.
‘Escape’ for while in our beautiful garden, a quiet spot away from the hustle and bustle of town. Enjoy our lovely ‘mum’s’ home made and locally sourced cakes. We offer a range of artisan coffees, vintage teas and some great milkshakes for the children.
For more information about Escape Arts and what we do, please visit our website. Please also read a copy of our newsletter to be up to date with the latest information on Escape.