The Garden Theatre Festival is returning to Bath for its 5th year, and this time it’s got an exciting new look! With the addition of extended Covered Seating*, you can relax in comfort, no matter the weather—whether you're seeking shade from the sun or shelter from the rain, GTF 2025 guarantees a British summer of theatre with every seat covered.

Immerse yourself in the worlds of Shakespeare and Jane Austen as our in-house repertory company presents two outstanding productions: Romeo & Juliet and Pride and Prejudice. Enjoy witty storytelling, laugh-out-loud comedy, and plenty of live music. Picture yourself sipping a refreshing drink under a warm sunset, all while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere at Bath’s very own open-air theatre festival.

Starting on 2nd July, this year’s festival will once again take place in the stunning gardens of The Holburne Museum, located on Great Pulteney Street in Bath. The garden will be transformed into a charming outdoor theatre with covered seating, deck chairs, and a fantastic garden bar.

*Seating is prioritised for deck chair bookings.

Details and booking

ABOUT BATH'S GARDEN THEATRE FESTIVAL

Bath’s Garden Theatre Festival is the city’s only purpose-built open-air theatre event. Held annually at The Holburne Museum Gardens, it began in 2020 as a one-off event during lockdown and grew into the full-fledged festival we know today, officially launching in 2021. Since then, the festival has expanded significantly, becoming a popular and established part of Bath’s cultural calendar. With all performances produced in-house, the festival is now considered Bath's official summer theatre experience.

,p>Held in the beautiful gardens of the Holburne Museum, the festival promises three weeks of top-notch performances from our repertory company (previous works include last year's Sherlock & Watson: A Murder in the Garden 2024), all set against the enchanting open-air stage. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, including Romeo & Juliet, Pride and Prejudice, and A Secret Garden.

At the Garden Theatre Festival, you can bring your own blankets, cushions, and camping chairs, or hire a deck chair for the full experience. Enjoy a drink from the bar, indulge with a pre-show meal at the Holburne Restaurant, and take in the best of UK outdoor theatre.

Matthew Emeny, our Artistic Director, is thrilled to welcome everyone back for the festival’s 5th year:

“We’re so excited to return in 2025 with a fantastic lineup of theatre that we know our audiences will love. We’re bringing back the rep theatre model to Bath, and can’t wait to share our wonderful in-house productions of Romeo & Juliet and Pride and Prejudice. These productions are created by the team behind Wind in the Willows, Jabberwocky, and Sherlock & Watson: A Murder in the Garden.

“Each year we grow, and now with fully covered seating, every spot at the festival is protected from the elements! I’m looking forward to welcoming everyone again for another unforgettable summer of incredible theatre!”

Tickets go on sale 24th March, so be sure to book early to secure a covered seat by adding a deck chair to your reservation.

We look forward to seeing you this summer in the beautiful gardens of The Holburne Museum at the Garden Theatre Festival!

THIS YEAR’S PROGRAMME 

Romeo & Juliet by William Shakespeare - Adapted by Matthew Emeny & Ed Viney, Music by Samuel Freeman

2nd July  - 10th July

As the warm summer breeze flows, immerse yourself in Shakespeare’s timeless tale of love and fate. Romeo and Juliet unfolds in a world of passion, rivalry, and destiny, where two star-crossed lovers defy their feuding families in pursuit of true love. With powerful performances and an intimate outdoor setting, this summer’s production promises to be a moving and unforgettable experience.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen -  Adapted by Matthew Emeny & Ed Viney, Music by Samuel Freeman

11th July - 20th July

As the sun shines and the sounds of nature fill the air, step into the world of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Follow the spirited and independent Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates love, class, and society in a tale full of humour, charm, and timeless characters. With colourful performances and the perfect backdrop of summer, this production promises a delightful and captivating experience.

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett - Adapted by Eloise Hare and Peter Bottley - Produced in association with The Plandits - 13th July

Join Mary, Colin and Dickon as they tell you the story of their favourite place in the world - The Secret Garden. A brand new re-imagining of the classic Frances Hodgson Burnett book brought to you by The Plandits. Suitable for anyone aged 6+ who loves literature and the great outdoors, this heartfelt, energetic show is full of original music, puppetry, interaction and laughs. As the three characters discover the transforming power of being active, the magic of nature and the joy of play, we’re sure you’ll leave this performance with a renewed enthusiasm for the world around you!

TICKET PRICES FOR BATH'S GARDEN THEATRE FESTIVAL

STANDARD TICKETS
Adult: £25.00
Student / Equity Concession - £18.00
Child (under 16): £14
Family (2 adults + 2 children): £60

DECK CHAIRS: Deck Chair hire: £4.50

CATERING OPTIONS: Pre-Dining at the Holburne Museum - please enquire via our website gardentheatrefest.com

LOCATION: The Holburne Museum - Great Pulteney St, Bathwick, Bath BA2 4DB 

DATES: 2nd July - 20th July

OPENING HOURS: Dependent on the shows that day - tickets from: www.gardentheatrefest.com

TICKET PRICES: £14 - £60 (family ticket) 

PARKING: Limited on-site parking & local street parking.

FOOD: Pre restaurant dining (pre-booking required) , Festival Snacks and Picnic’s allowed.

DRINK: Fully Stocked Outdoor Festival Bar

FACILITIES: Toilets in the Holburne Museum with accessible lift

WHAT TO BRING: Your own chairs / blankets. Picnics welcome. Baby changing areas available, and pushchairs allowed. 

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS: Yes

For further information, images, press tickets and to arrange interviews with Matthew Emeny or any of the acts performing during the festival, please contact info@theproductiongarden.co.uk