Belcombe Court: Six reasons it’s the perfect venue for our summer season
For this year’s season, we’re delighted to be back in the breathtaking grounds of Belcombe Court in Bradford on Avon.
The perfect backdrop for our picnic prom (now sold out), musical family show (28 Aug) and operas: La rondine (26 | 29 Aug, 1 | 3 Sep), Rita & Il segreto di Susanna (27 | 31 Aug) and Dido and Aeneas (2 Sep).
A rare opportunity to explore the gardens at Belcombe Court
This is a special invitation to step inside the private gardens, rarely open to the public. Belcombe Court stands in 60 acres of formal gardens, parkland and woodland. The gardens are a creative blend of restored 18th century features – the Rotunda, the grotto, the ornamental pond and ha ha – and exquisite contemporary additions such as the infinity pool and terrace - paved with the lightest golden stone, set high above the walled garden with stunning views of the river valley below.
A beautiful backdrop for incredible music and storytelling
There is something for everyone in this year's programme: if you want a tale of romance and heartbreak that will sweep you off your feet then Puccini’s La rondine is a must; or if romping comedies are more up your street then the dazzling wit and humour of Donizetti’s Rita and Wolf-Ferrari’s Il segreto di Susanna (Susanna’s Secret) is a brilliant choice. If you’d like a powerful operatic concert, then Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas features one of the most beautiful arias in all Baroque opera - ‘When I am Laid in Earth’.
If you’d like a show for all the family (age 3 and upwards), then our warm-hearted and inspiring musical tale The Man in the Moon is a must. Children are invited to explore the gardens and make props to use during the performance in our FREE prop-making workshop.
The perfect summer setting for Prosecco and gin cocktails
The award winning Scout and Sage Gin Bar will be serving exquisite gin cocktails from their local distillery, and Prosecco Superiore from a specially curated selection of producers from the Conegliano Valdobbiadene region in Northern Italy. Whether you’re veering towards botanicals or bubbles, they’re the perfect accompaniment as you enjoy the gardens ahead of the production.
The ideal spot for a pre-show picnic
Is a summer’s day complete without a picnic? If you think it’s essential, then you’ll be delighted that we’re opening the gardens from 5pm so you can enjoy a picnic ahead of your evening show. Whether you’re thinking sandwiches, cheese and crackers, or maybe even some scones, jam and cream - the abundant gardens provide the perfect setting to picnic with friends.
Note: the above image is an artist’s impression of the inside of the theatre and does not include all detailsThe Saddlespan Theatre is weatherproof and spectacular
Each production will take place in our saddle-span structure which can be easily ventilated and is specially designed to provide a fully-covered solution for full weather security, a raked auditorium for the best views, and an excellent acoustic. A spectacular space to enjoy this year’s productions.
A chance to soak up the history
The landscaped garden at Belcombe is registered by English Heritage as being of special historic interest, and the beautiful Grade 1 listed Belcombe Court is one of Bradford on Avon’s finest houses. Originally built in 1700, it was altered considerably in 1734 by John Wood the Elder, one of the best known architects of the day, who designed many of Bath’s most famous historic buildings.
Getting to Belcombe Court
This magical setting is only a 15 minute up-hill walk from the centre of Bradford on Avon, or you can take a short taxi ride with the local taxi office located right next door to Bradford on Avon station. For those driving, there’s plenty of free parking for 200+ cars on site too.
There are good train transport links to Bradford on Avon from London and Bristol, most requiring a simple change at Bath Spa. You can find out more about travelling to Belcombe Court here.
Please note, Belcombe Court is private and only ticket-holders can visit the grounds.