The Other Place: The Royal Shakespeare Company's Intimate Studio Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon
An intimate, innovative studio theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, The Other Place champions experimental and contemporary theatre as part of the Royal Shakespeare Company.
The Other Place is a 200-seat black box studio theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, owned by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). Originally established in 1974 as an experimental space by pioneering director Buzz Goodbody, it has evolved from a corrugated iron rehearsal room into a dynamic venue for contemporary and classical theatre, fostering close actor-audience connections and innovative performances. It also houses extensive costume stores and community arts activities.
A brief summary to The Other Place
- 22 Southern Ln, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6BH, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the RSC website for current performance schedules and ticket availability to experience cutting-edge theatre productions.
- Visit the café and bar within The Other Place for a relaxed atmosphere before or after performances.
- Explore the costume store displays to gain insight into the artistry behind RSC productions.
- Attend one of the two annual festivals of new work to see emerging playwrights and innovative performances.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From Stratford-upon-Avon railway station, take a local bus or taxi for a 10-15 minute journey to Southern Lane where The Other Place is located. Bus services run regularly but check schedules for frequency. Train tickets typically cost £10-£20 from nearby cities.
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Car
Driving to The Other Place involves parking in Stratford town centre or nearby public car parks, then walking approximately 10 minutes to Southern Lane. Parking fees range from £2 to £5 per hour. Note that some areas have limited parking and traffic restrictions.
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Walking
If staying in central Stratford-upon-Avon, The Other Place is accessible via a 15-20 minute walk along pedestrian-friendly paths and riverside routes. Terrain is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors.
The Other Place location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Other Place
Origins and Vision of The Other Place
The Other Place began its life in 1974 when the Royal Shakespeare Company acquired a former rehearsal room in Stratford-upon-Avon, converting it into a studio theatre. This transformation was driven by Buzz Goodbody, the RSC's first female director, whose pioneering vision was to create an intimate, experimental space for adventurous theatre. The theatre’s name references a line from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, symbolizing a new and alternative theatrical atmosphere. Initially a corrugated iron 'tin shed,' it became a hub for small-scale productions, contemporary playwrights, and groundbreaking classical performances, fostering a unique actor-audience relationship where performers often interacted directly with the audience in close quarters.Evolution Through Redevelopment
In 1989, The Other Place closed for rebuilding and reopened in 1991 as a modern brick building designed by Ian Ritchie Architects. This new venue preserved the spirit of the original, continuing to host innovative productions and serving as a space for workshops, teaching, and conferences. In 2005, the theatre closed again to become the foyer for the temporary Courtyard Theatre, which housed performances during the redevelopment of the Royal Shakespeare and Swan Theatres. The Courtyard Theatre itself closed in 2010, and after a period of uncertainty, The Other Place was reinstated and reopened in 2016 as a flexible 200-seat studio theatre, marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death.A Hub for Creativity and Community Engagement
Today, The Other Place serves as a vibrant creative engine for the RSC. It hosts two festivals of new work annually and provides rehearsal and performance space for local amateur groups. The venue supports the RSC’s work with young people and the local community, offering a platform for contemporary writing and experimental theatre. Alongside the theatre, the building houses the RSC’s extensive costume store, containing tens of thousands of costume items, and features a café and bar that serve as social hubs for visitors and artists alike.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The Other Place’s architecture reflects its evolution from a humble rehearsal shed to a purpose-built studio theatre that balances functionality with intimacy. Its black box design allows for flexible staging and audience arrangements, fostering an immersive theatrical experience. The theatre’s history is deeply intertwined with the RSC’s broader mission to innovate while honoring Shakespearean tradition. The space remains a testament to Buzz Goodbody’s revolutionary spirit and the RSC’s commitment to nurturing new talent and experimental work.Experiencing The Other Place
Visitors to The Other Place can expect an atmosphere charged with creativity and history. The close proximity of actors and audience creates a unique theatrical experience, where the boundary between performance and spectatorship blurs. The venue’s location on Southern Lane, near the River Avon and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, situates it within Stratford’s rich cultural landscape. The café and costume displays add layers of engagement, making it a destination not only for theatre performances but also for exploring the artistry behind productions.Legacy and Future Prospects
The Other Place stands as a symbol of the RSC’s dedication to innovation in theatre. Its reopening in 2016 marked a renewal of its original mission to provide a space for experimental and contemporary theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. Supported by significant funding from Arts Council England and other benefactors, it continues to evolve as a vital cultural venue. The theatre’s ongoing role in community engagement, education, and artistic development ensures its place as a cornerstone of Stratford’s theatrical heritage and the RSC’s future.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council
0.3 km
Explore Stratford-upon-Avon and its rich heritage at the Town Council, your gateway to local culture and events in Shakespeare's hometown.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall
0.3 km
Elegant Palladian landmark in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending rich history, Shakespearean heritage, and civic tradition since 1767.
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
0.3 km
Historic bandstand in Stratford-upon-Avon offering free summer concerts and a vibrant community atmosphere in a scenic park setting.
Sinister Stratford
0.3 km
Explore the darker side of Stratford-upon-Avon with Sinister Stratford's captivating tours of haunted history and folklore.
Garrick
0.3 km
Step into Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest pub, where medieval charm meets hearty fare and centuries of captivating history.
Stratford Waterside Market
0.4 km
Discover unique artisan treasures and vibrant street food in Stratford-upon-Avon's charming riverside market.
The Countess of Evesham
0.4 km
Indulge in traditional British cuisine at The Countess of Evesham, a charming restaurant on the waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, surrounded by natural beauty.
Tramway Bridge
0.4 km
Historic 1826 red brick pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, blending industrial heritage with tranquil riverside views in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Shakespeare Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
A Victorian Gothic tribute in Stratford’s marketplace celebrating Shakespeare, Queen Victoria, and Anglo-American friendship.
Statue Of Shakespeare Stratford-upon-Avon
0.5 km
A bronze tribute to the Bard in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, where literature and history come alive on Henley Street.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop
0.5 km
Discover the essence of Shakespeare's legacy at The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop, a unique gift shop in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home
0.8 km
Discover the enchanting Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home in Stratford-upon-Avon, where history and comfort blend seamlessly for an unforgettable stay.
Anne Hathaway's Cottage
1.7 km
Discover the enchanting Anne Hathaway's Cottage, a historical museum celebrating Shakespeare's beloved wife in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Stratford Fountains
2.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of the Stratford Fountains, a must-visit tourist attraction in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Stratford Armouries
4.6 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Stratford-upon-Avon at Stratford Armouries, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chain Ferry
0.1 km
Experience a charming, hand-cranked crossing on Britain’s last chain ferry, linking Stratford’s cultural heart with tranquil riverside meadows.
The Stratford Chain Ferry
0.1 km
Step aboard the last manually operated chain ferry in Britain and glide across the River Avon in the heart of Shakespeare’s Stratford.
Hall's Croft
0.1 km
Explore the Jacobean home and medicinal heritage of Shakespeare’s daughter Susanna in Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic Old Town.
Almshouses
0.2 km
Historic almshouses in Stratford-upon-Avon offering a glimpse into centuries of community care and architectural heritage.
The Guild Chapel
0.2 km
A 13th-century chapel in Stratford-upon-Avon famed for medieval murals and Shakespearean connections.
Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall
0.2 km
Step back into Tudor England where Shakespeare learned, played, and was inspired in this immersive medieval schoolroom and guildhall.
Shakespeare's England
0.2 km
Explore the heart of Shakespeare’s world with immersive exhibitions, live performances, and rich heritage in Stratford-upon-Avon’s cultural hub.
Shakespeare's New Place
0.2 km
Explore the historic site and gardens of Shakespeare’s final family home, where his legacy comes alive through art and history.
New Place Gardens
0.2 km
Explore the tranquil gardens marking Shakespeare’s family home site, where history, art, and nature intertwine in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Swan Theatre
0.2 km
An intimate Victorian-Gothic theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending historic charm with modern design to celebrate Shakespeare’s contemporaries and theatrical heritage.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
0.3 km
Experience Shakespeare’s world at the iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre, where history, innovation, and the River Avon converge in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Recreation Ground
0.3 km
A lively riverside park in Stratford-upon-Avon with family play areas, scenic walks, and vibrant community events throughout the year.
Holy Trinity Church
0.3 km
Discover the oldest building in Stratford-upon-Avon, where Shakespeare was baptized and laid to rest beside the tranquil River Avon.
Shakespeare's Funerary Monument
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to Shakespeare’s legacy, this limestone monument in Holy Trinity Church marks the final resting place of England’s greatest playwright.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
0.3 km
Experience lively stand-up comedy and emerging UK talent in the heart of historic Stratford-upon-Avon at Fat Cat Comedy Club.
Essential places to dine
Dirty Duck
0.1 km
Historic riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon offering quality British fare, vegan options, and a lively atmosphere loved by locals and theatre actors alike.
Pick Thai Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Thai flavors freshly cooked in a cozy, welcoming setting at the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
salt
0.2 km
Experience modern British fine dining in Stratford’s charming timbered setting, where seasonal flavors and artistic dishes create an unforgettable tasting journey.
No 44 Restaurant
0.2 km
Elegant dining by Stratford’s Waterside with seasonal British-European cuisine and two AA Rosettes for excellence.
The Woodsman Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor sustainable British wild game and wood-fired cuisine in a stylish, modern setting at Stratford-upon-Avon’s acclaimed Woodsman Restaurant.
Edward Moon
0.2 km
A modern English brasserie in Stratford-upon-Avon offering fresh, flavorful dishes with attentive service in a stylish yet relaxed setting.
Loxleys Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.3 km
A family-run modern British restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon, famed for innovative cuisine, cozy ambiance, and an exceptional wine selection.
Lambs
0.3 km
Historic Tudor charm and classic English cuisine combine at Lambs, Stratford-upon-Avon's beloved cozy restaurant.
The Vintner
0.3 km
A historic Stratford wine bar and restaurant serving seasonal British fare in a warm, traditional setting, ideal for pre-theatre dining.
Wildwood Restaurants Stratford-upon-Avon
0.3 km
Contemporary Italian dining in Stratford-upon-Avon with standout vegan options and a bright, welcoming atmosphere.
Café Rouge - Stratford Upon Avon
0.3 km
Classic French bistro charm with authentic cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere in Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic center.
The Opposition
0.3 km
Historic bistro in Stratford-upon-Avon offering seasonal, hearty dishes in a cozy 16th-century setting, perfect for pre-theatre dining.
The Rooftop Restaurant at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre
0.3 km
Savor seasonal British cuisine with stunning river views atop Stratford’s iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Red Hot Mamma pizzeria Stratford-upon-Avon
0.3 km
Authentic Neapolitan pizzas with vibrant decor and lively atmosphere in the heart of historic Stratford-upon-Avon.
Giggling Squid - Stratford upon Avon
0.3 km
Vibrant Thai tapas and bold flavours in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for sharing with friends and family after a day exploring Shakespeare’s town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Daisy Chain Gift Company Ltd
0.2 km
Award-winning boutique in Stratford-upon-Avon offering unique contemporary gifts, design-led cards, stylish stationery, and premium gift wrap.
Vinegar Hill Wardrobe
0.3 km
Discover elegant ladies’ fashion in the historic charm of Stratford-upon-Avon’s Vinegar Hill Wardrobe boutique.
Razzle Dazzle
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique costume treasures in the cozy charm of Razzle Dazzle, Stratford-upon-Avon’s beloved boutique.
Boutique Jsk
0.3 km
Discover unique women's fashion and local craftsmanship at Boutique Jsk, a stylish independent shop on historic Sheep Street in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Ivy'ss Vintage Decor & Gifts
0.3 km
Explore a charming vintage shop in Stratford-upon-Avon, featuring unique decor and gifts that offer a glimpse into the past.
The Pewter Room
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted pewter treasures in the heart of Shakespeare’s hometown – a unique gift shop with timeless charm and local character.
Any Witch Way
0.3 km
A mystical boutique in Stratford-upon-Avon offering crystals, candles, tarot, and witchcraft treasures in a charming antique centre setting.
Gothsteamstratford
0.3 km
Discover steampunk magic and gothic charm in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon at Gothsteamstratford’s unique gift emporium.
Italy's Little Secret
0.3 km
Experience the authentic taste of Italy at Italy's Little Secret, a charming boutique restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon, perfect for food lovers.
Lush Cosmetics Stratford Upon Avon
0.3 km
Discover fresh, handmade, and ethical beauty products at Lush Stratford Upon Avon, where sustainability meets vibrant community spirit.
Jack Wills
0.4 km
Discover timeless British fashion and contemporary style at Jack Wills in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic High Street.
Accessorize
0.4 km
Discover stylish accessories, clothing, and jewelry at Accessorize in Stratford-upon-Avon, where fashion meets Shakespearean charm.
Wilfreds of Stratford
0.4 km
Discover timeless sweets and local charm at Wilfreds of Stratford, a beloved confectionery shop on Stratford-upon-Avon's historic High Street.
Jigsaw
0.4 km
Discover timeless British womenswear and accessories at Jigsaw, Stratford-upon-Avon's elegant fashion boutique on Bridge Street.
Mosaique
0.4 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion in a charming boutique nestled in Stratford-upon-Avon's historic Wood Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Windmill
0.2 km
A welcoming traditional British pub in Warwickshire serving classic dishes and local brews in a cozy, community-focused setting.
Rose & Crown
0.3 km
Classic English pub charm with hearty fare, friendly service, and a spacious garden in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Keys
0.3 km
A friendly and inviting pub in Stratford-upon-Avon with a quirky garden, great drinks, and classic pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
Officers Mess - 1940's Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Step into the 1940s at Officers Mess, Stratford’s premier cocktail bar blending vintage charm, world-class drinks, and vibrant live entertainment.
That Little Gin & Prosecco Bar
0.3 km
A cozy, intimate gin and Prosecco bar tucked away in Stratford-upon-Avon, offering an extensive spirit selection and warm, friendly vibes.
The Bull - El Toro | Stratford-Upon-Avon
0.3 km
A lively fusion of Spanish tapas and English pub charm in Stratford-upon-Avon, serving exceptional food and drink in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Avon Lounge
0.4 km
A lively cocktail bar in Stratford-upon-Avon known for friendly hosts, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for evening socializing.
Cox's Yard, Stratford-Upon-Avon
0.5 km
Lively riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon blending casual dining, sports, and scenic views by the River Avon.
The Phoenix
0.5 km
A vibrant independent bar in Stratford-upon-Avon offering craft beers, authentic Neapolitan pizza, and a leafy rooftop terrace for a lively social experience.
The Bear
0.5 km
Historic riverside pub in Stratford-upon-Avon serving classic ales and comforting British fare in a warm, cosy setting with scenic river views.
The Stratford Alehouse
0.5 km
A cozy micropub in Stratford-upon-Avon celebrated for exceptional real ales, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Avenue Club
1.6 km
A friendly and affordable bar with live music and games, offering a relaxed social scene in Stratford-upon-Avon’s industrial heart.
The Howard Arms Ilmington
10.9 km
A charming 400-year-old Cotswold inn blending historic warmth, fine dining, and stylish comfort in the heart of Ilmington village.
Unicorn
11.1 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Warwick offering excellent British fare, accommodating service, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Castle Inn
12.5 km
A historic Warwick pub with quirky charm, lively entertainment, and a welcoming beer garden for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
Caz Bar Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
The Cavern
13.7 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Neon
15.9 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Altoria Nightclub
16.3 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
Smack
16.3 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
Club PST
33.7 km
Compact, bass-driven Digbeth club with reggae roots, stacked rooms and late-night underground parties.
Disco Wonderland
33.9 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
VOID Nightclub
33.9 km
Dive into Digbeth's underground heartbeat at VOID Nightclub, where marathon raves and thunderous bass fuel Birmingham's rawest nightlife from dusk till dawn.
The Night Owl
34.0 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
Quantum Vnues
34.0 km
Dive into Digbeth's beating heart: Quantum Venues delivers electrifying nights of music, lights, and unbridled energy in Birmingham's creative core.
Next Door & Spotlight
34.0 km
Two adjoining Digbeth nightspots — a pulse-driven DJ room and an intimate bar space with street-food pop-ups and a raw, industrial vibe.
Nightingale Club
34.0 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
Mango Night Club
34.1 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Sector 57
34.2 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Intimate
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
