Tolethorpe: Summer Theatre

Description

The magic of Tolethorpe is something special which we highly recommend you experience for yourselves. Enjoy a picnic in the beautiful grounds in front of Tolethorpe Hall, then take your seat in the covered auditorium, and see an open-air stage like no other, with amateur productions from the extremely talented Stamford Shakespeare Company.

Throughout summer 2026 the Company will perform William Shakespeare’s ‘Twelfth Night’, ‘One Man, Two Guvnors’ by Richard Bean and Robert Louis Stevenson’s ‘Treasure Island’. And the talented Tolethorpe Youth Drama Theatre Makers will present a title yet to be announced.

Performances take place on an open air stage set within an enchanting woodland glade facing a 600-seat, raked, and permanently covered auditorium. The Stage newspaper described it as “one of England’s premier alfresco theatre venues” and The Sunday Times described a visit here as being “one of the finest things to do this summer”. In addition to the recognised high standard of performances the theatre is known for the quality of all its facilities, making it one of the finest open air theatres in Europe.

Many visitors really go to town on their pre-performance picnic, but if you prefer you can head inside and enjoy a meal in the dining rooms of historic Tolethorpe Hall.

RESTAURANT 

Introducing the dynamic duo behind The Fig Tree at Tolethorpe, local brothers Grant and Nathan Worthington. With extensive backgrounds in catering and hospitality, they’re dedicated to showcasing the best of locally sourced, fresh ingredients, crafting a menu that’s not only delicious but also sustainable.

The restaurant will open at 5.30pm to provide perfect pre-theatre dining. From salads and lights bites for £8, to a hearty carvery for £17, and delectable desserts from £3, there’s something to please every palate.

READY MADE PICNICS

Looking for convenience? Let The Fig Tree at Tolethorpe handle the hard work with their Ready Made Picnics. Priced at £18 per person or £30 for a picnic for two, they’re filled with a variety of irresistible treats.

To book a table at The Fig Tree at Tolethorpe, pre-order picnics, or simply to request more information, contact:

Phone: 07955 670819
Email: [email protected]

YEAR ROUND EVENTS

Visitors can also enjoy classes and courses at Tolethorpe throughout the year. Relax and de-stress at their monthly gong sound bath, weekly yoga classes and weekly art classes. Plus look out for their annual clothing sale and Winter Gift Fair

Accessibility- For Tolethorpe’s full accessibility information and statement please see here.