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Old Fire Station Arts

4.7
·239 reviews·, United Kingdom

Charity-run hub in Oxford blending contemporary art, live performances, and support for the homeless.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

See art exhibitions

CrowdLow
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Old Fire Station (Arts) - Image 1

Old Fire Station Arts

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

See art exhibitions

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Charity-run hub in Oxford blending contemporary art, live performances, and support for the homeless.

4.7
(239 reviews)

"Absolutely stunning venue. Staff are extremely approachable and friendly. Highly recommended!"

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TIP

Check Event Schedule

Visit their website for the latest exhibitions, performances, and events.

Free Art Viewings

Many gallery exhibitions are free to enter, making it a budget-friendly option.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Contemporary Art Exhibitions

Contemporary Art Exhibitions

Gallery

Discover U.K. and local artists' work in a dynamic, rotating collection. Often free to visit!

Live Theatre & Music

Live Theatre & Music

Theatre Space

Experience intimate performances, from drama to music, in a unique, accessible venue.

Community & Charity Hub

Community & Charity Hub

Ground Floor

Learn about the dual mission supporting arts and the homelessness charity Crisis.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover Local Art & Culture

Explore a vibrant hub showcasing U.K. and local art, drama, and music. This charity-run venue offers a unique cultural experience, often featuring free exhibitions and affordable performances. Check their schedule for diverse events.

Support a Good Cause

The Old Fire Station is a charity-run center, housing both an arts venue and the homelessness charity Crisis. Your visit contributes to supporting vital community services while enjoying creative programming.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
See art exhibitions
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Catch live shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍The Old Fire Station, Salford. Run, don’t walk to this new Salford hotspot 🏃‍♂️🔥 The Old Fire Station serves up tasty pastries, brunch, lunch and Lark Hill beer brewed on site 🥐🍺 #manchester #salford #greatermanchester #newopening #bakery #foodiesmanchester #foodieuk
@secretmanchester
3.6K likes • 101K views

Check Event Schedule

Visit their website for the latest exhibitions, performances, and events. Instagram

Free Art Viewings

Many gallery exhibitions are free to enter, making it a budget-friendly option. Reddit

Bon voyage to Sarah Fortais, one of our artists in residence here at the Old Fire Station who left us earlier this month. Sarah’s unique, cosmic performance and sculptural art is inspired by her own scientific research and a fascination with humanity’s obsession with space exploration. Read Sarah’s Eden Arts blog post (along with those of our other artists in residence) via the link in our bio! ...
edenartsuk
13 likes • 683 views
Arts and Crafters Markets this morning. Redcliffe Old Fire Station, Oxley Rd Redciffe. 9.00am to 2.00pm.
seraandsera
13 likes • 184 views

Supportive Atmosphere

Enjoy a welcoming and inclusive space, with friendly staff and accessible facilities. Reddit

Cafe Recommendations

Try the Syrian food at the cafe for a delicious and affordable meal. Reddit

Harriet Performing Arts Center (Old Fire Station 22) a place known for putting out fires is now known for igniting fires in children!!! Thank you Memphis for making the Arts possible for children from all walks of life❤️ #RodericHinton #ARTS365 #Impact #Inspire #engage #yagmemphis #artsmemphis #memphis
youngactorsguildmemphis
153 likes • 2.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedule

Visit their website for the latest exhibitions, performances, and events. Instagram

Free Art Viewings

Many gallery exhibitions are free to enter, making it a budget-friendly option. Reddit

Supportive Atmosphere

Enjoy a welcoming and inclusive space, with friendly staff and accessible facilities. Reddit

Cafe Recommendations

Try the Syrian food at the cafe for a delicious and affordable meal. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(239 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Old Fire Station for its stunning venue, friendly and approachable staff, and reasonably priced bar. The intimate theatre setup and the dual mission of supporting arts and a homelessness charity are frequently highlighted as unique positives. Some find studio rental prices a bit high, but overall, it's highly recommended for its atmosphere and diverse offerings.

"Absolutely stunning venue. Staff are extremely approachable and friendly. Bar reasonably priced and well stocked. Seating area beautifully decorated (amazing music playing in background!).
Stage is on one level with audience so an all round alternative viewing perspective and experience.
Toilets clean and fully stocked.
Easily accessible to all and a safe zone to any who need it.
Highly recommended! Can't wait for my next visit!"

Natalie “BrandyBoomBoom” Metcalfe

"The studios are very spacious and have good air conditioning, which makes them really comfortable to work in!! Overall, it’s a great space and well run. The only downside is that the prices for renting a studio feel a bit too high"

alisa arkharova

"Saw 'We Hate Movies' live podcast here. Lovely staff, great building, amazing show overall. Extremely happy with my visit."

Christopher Ireland

What People Like

Stunning venue
Friendly staff
Intimate theatre

What People Dislike

High studio rental prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Fire Station is centrally located in Oxford. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there are several car parks in the city centre. Reddit

Yes, the venue is designed to be accessible. It's described as a 'safe zone to any who need it' and has accessible toilets. Reddit

For evening events, consider public transport or taxis as city centre parking can be limited. Check local bus schedules for late-night services. Reddit

There are usually cycle racks available in the city centre, though it's advisable to check for specific locations near the venue. Reddit

Yes, several city centre car parks are within walking distance. Be aware of parking fees and operating hours. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Many of the art exhibitions at The Old Fire Station are free to enter, making it a great budget-friendly option for exploring local art. Reddit

Tickets for theatre and music performances can typically be purchased online through the venue's official website or sometimes at the door. Instagram

Gallery opening hours can vary, but they are often open during weekday afternoons. It's best to check the venue's website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

For free exhibitions, advance booking is usually not required, but for popular ticketed events, booking ahead is highly recommended. Instagram

Concession prices may be available for students, seniors, or those on low income. Check the specific event details on their website for eligibility. Reddit

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The venue showcases a range of contemporary U.K. and local art, including paintings, installations, and sculptures. Instagram+1

You can expect a diverse program including drama, theatre, live music, and spoken word events. Instagram+1

Yes, there's a cafe that serves delicious Syrian food and drinks, and a bar that is reasonably priced and well-stocked. Reddit

The stage is on one level with the audience, offering an alternative and intimate viewing perspective. Reddit

The venue offers spacious studios with good air conditioning, suitable for artists and creatives. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The cafe offers delicious Syrian cuisine, alongside coffee and other beverages. It's a great spot for lunch or a snack. Reddit

Reviews suggest that the bar is reasonably priced and well-stocked, making it a good option before or after a show. Reddit

Absolutely! The cafe is perfect for a quick coffee and a pastry or a more substantial Syrian meal. Reddit

While specific menu details aren't always listed, Syrian cuisine often features many vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. It's worth asking staff for options. Reddit

The cafe is described as having a lovely atmosphere, with good music playing in the background, making it a pleasant place to relax. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. Generally, taking photos of artwork may be restricted, but photos of the venue and performances (without flash) are often permitted. Always check signage or ask staff. Reddit

The unique architecture of the old fire station building itself, as well as the art installations and the intimate theatre space, offer great photographic opportunities. Reddit

The varied spaces, from the gallery to the cafe, can provide interesting backdrops for portraits, especially if you're capturing the artsy vibe. Reddit

Professional photography or videography usually requires prior permission from the venue management. Reddit

Lighting varies by area. The gallery might have focused exhibition lighting, while the theatre will have stage lighting during performances. The cafe is generally well-lit. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Fire Station can be a great spot for families looking for a cultural outing. Many of the art exhibitions are free, making it a budget-friendly option for a family day out. Reddit The intimate theatre space might also host family-friendly shows or workshops, so it's worth checking their schedule for specific events. Instagram

While the venue itself is accessible, consider the age appropriateness of any performances or exhibitions. The cafe offers a relaxed environment for a snack or meal, which can be helpful with younger children. Reddit The overall atmosphere is welcoming, and the dual mission of supporting arts and a homelessness charity can also be a valuable learning experience for children.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, The Old Fire Station is a gem. Many of the art exhibitions are free to enter, allowing you to soak in local and U.K. art without spending a penny. Reddit This makes it an ideal stop for those looking to experience Oxford's cultural scene affordably.

When it comes to performances, keep an eye out for concession tickets or early bird offers on their website. Instagram Even if ticketed events have a cost, they are often reasonably priced due to the venue's community focus. Reddit Additionally, the cafe offers delicious and affordable Syrian food, providing a great alternative to more expensive tourist-trap eateries. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will find The Old Fire Station a compelling destination. The venue consistently showcases contemporary U.K. and local art, offering a diverse range of styles and mediums. Instagram+1 The intimate gallery space allows for a close appreciation of the works on display, and the rotating exhibitions mean there's always something new to discover. Reddit

Beyond the visual arts, the venue's commitment to creativity extends to live theatre and music. Experiencing a performance in their unique, level-stage theatre can be a highlight, offering an intimate connection with the artists. Reddit Keep an eye on their schedule for special artist residencies or exhibitions that delve deeper into specific artistic practices. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dual Mission: Arts and Crisis

The Old Fire Station in Oxford is more than just a cultural venue; it's a testament to community support. It houses Arts at the Old Fire Station (AOFS), a vibrant center for creativity, alongside the homelessness charity Crisis. This dual purpose means that by engaging with the arts, visitors are also contributing to a vital cause. Instagram

AOFS hosts a diverse range of events, from contemporary art exhibitions featuring U.K. and local artists to live theatre, music, and spoken word performances. The intimate theatre space, with its unique stage-to-audience setup, offers a special viewing experience. Reddit The gallery often features free exhibitions, making art accessible to everyone. Reddit

Crisis operates from the same building, providing essential services and support to individuals experiencing homelessness. This integration creates a unique environment where art and social impact go hand-in-hand, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Instagram

Experiencing Live Performances

The Old Fire Station is renowned for its intimate and engaging live performance space. Unlike larger venues, the stage is on the same level as the audience, creating a unique and immersive experience. Reddit This setup allows for a closer connection between performers and attendees, making every show feel more personal and impactful.

Visitors can expect a varied program that includes theatre productions, live music gigs, and spoken word events. The venue has hosted everything from new writing and festivals to live podcast recordings. InstagramReddit The atmosphere is often described as friendly and welcoming, with staff who are approachable and helpful. Reddit

When planning your visit for a performance, it's advisable to check the venue's schedule online for upcoming shows and to book tickets in advance, especially for popular events. Instagram The intimate setting means that shows can sell out quickly, so securing your spot early is recommended.

Art Exhibitions and Gallery Visits

The Old Fire Station serves as a platform for a wide array of artistic talent, showcasing both established and emerging U.K. and local artists. The gallery space, located on the bottom floor, presents rotating exhibitions that cover diverse themes and mediums, from paintings and sculptures to installations. Reddit

A significant draw for many visitors is that these exhibitions are often free to enter, offering an accessible way to experience contemporary art. Reddit The collection can typically be viewed within 15-30 minutes, making it a perfect stop for a quick cultural immersion or as part of a larger city exploration. Reddit The venue also features a small gift shop on the top floor, where you might find unique items related to the art on display or by local artisans. Reddit

Beyond the visual arts, the venue has also hosted art society exhibitions, such as those featuring watercolour artwork inspired by nature. Instagram This highlights the venue's commitment to supporting a broad spectrum of artistic expression within the community.

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