Oxford Castle Summer Shakespeare39

Outdoor hire

Bring your event to life

The Castleyard at Oxford Castle & Prison offers a beautifully unique setting for community theatre, markets, fairs, performances, choir nights, comedy and cultural events. Set against the backdrop of centuries of history, this flexible outdoor venue is perfect for creators and organisers seeking characterful space in the heart of Oxford.

Enquire Now

Oxford Castle Summer Shakespeare52 Scaled E1601378505732 614X1024

About Outdoor Venue Hire

The Castleyard is a versatile outdoor event space at Oxford Castle & Prison that has hosted everything from the celebrated Oxford Shakespeare Festival to touring theatre companies and local community productions. With a capacity for up to 300 guests (dependent on event format), this space offers organisers a rare combination of historic charm and practical flexibility in central Oxford. Licensed alcohol sales and guest facilities can be arranged depending on the nature of your event.

Enquire Now

Castle Outside Sunset 2019 (1)

What to Expect

  • A historic outdoor venue set within the grounds of Oxford Castle & Prison — ideal for performances, markets & cultural events.
  • Capacity up to 300 people (venue layout dependent).
  • Licensed alcohol sales available via the on‑site gift shop.
  • Guest facilities can be provided based on event size.
  • Flexible pricing options: hourly hire fee or profit‑share arrangements including ticketing and marketing support.
  • Supportive venue team on hand to discuss and plan your production requirements.

Enquire Now

Castle Panorama

Plan Your Event

  • Event timing: Flexible depending on event type and production needs.
  • Location: Oxford Castle & Prison, 44–46 Oxford Castle, Oxford OX1 1AY.
  • Ticketing & marketing: Optional support on profit‑share basis to help maximise audience reach.
  • Catering & extras: Discuss options with the venue team as part of your hire plan.
  • Permissions & logistics: Plan ahead for permits, insurance and production needs with the venue team.

Enquire Now

Frequently Asked Questions

The space suits outdoor theatre, markets, fairs, choirs, comedy nights, community shows and more.

Maximum capacity is up to 300 guests, depending on the event layout and production needs.

Yes - the venue is fully licensed for alcohol sales via the onsite gift shop, subject to agreement.

Toilet facilities can be arranged depending on the size and nature of your event.

You can hire by the hour or agree a profit‑share deal, where the venue helps manage ticket sales and marketing.

Email info@oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk to discuss dates, pricing and event requirements.

Production‑specific equipment is usually arranged by the event organiser; confirm options with the venue team.

Yes - profit‑share hire can include assistance with ticketing and marketing.

Yes - catering and food options can be discussed as part of your bespoke event planning.

Central Oxford has limited on‑site parking; organisers should consider nearby public transport and city car parks when planning.

Register for updates

Be the first to hear about our events and receive priority access to ticket sales.