The gardens of the Holburne are once again transformed into Bath’s only purpose-built open-air theatre as the Garden Theatre Festival returns today, launching three weeks of live performances, music and summer entertainment.
Now in its sixth year, the much-loved festival has become a highlight of Bath’s cultural calendar, bringing professional theatre to the beautiful surroundings of the Holburne’s historic gardens.
This year’s festival introduces an exciting new performance space, with productions staged fully in the round to create an even more immersive experience for audiences. Extended covered seating also means visitors can enjoy performances whatever the British summer weather has in store.
The 2026 season opens with The Importance of Being Earnest, Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy of manners, adapted and directed by Sam Freeman. Running from 2–12 July, the production promises sparkling wit, memorable characters and plenty of laughter.
From 14–26 July, the festival continues with a brand-new adaptation of Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, directed by Artistic Director Matthew Emeny. Following the success of last year’s Pride and Prejudice, audiences can once again enjoy Austen’s timeless storytelling brought to life in the unique outdoor setting of the Holburne gardens.
Families can also look forward to The Big Bad Wolf on 19 July, a fun-filled production created in association with The Plandits.
Alongside the performances, visitors can make an evening of it with drinks from the festival bar, delicious food available throughout the festival, and the opportunity to picnic in the gardens before the show begins. Deck chairs are available to hire, or audiences are welcome to bring their own blankets and camping chairs to enjoy a relaxed summer theatre experience.
Matthew Emeny, Artistic Director of The Production Garden, said:
“We’re so excited to return for our sixth year with a fantastic programme of theatre that we know audiences will love. Each year the festival continues to grow, and this summer we’re introducing a fully in-the-round performance space, giving everyone even better views of the action. We can’t wait to welcome audiences back for another unforgettable summer of theatre in the beautiful surroundings of the Holburne Museum.”
Originally created during the pandemic as a one-off outdoor event, the Garden Theatre Festival has grown into Bath’s official summer open-air theatre festival, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Whether you’re a regular theatre-goer or looking for a memorable summer evening with friends and family, the Garden Theatre Festival offers the perfect opportunity to experience live theatre in one of Bath’s most beautiful outdoor settings.
Performances run until 26 July.
2026 Festival Programme
- The Importance of Being Earnest – 2–12 July
- Sense and Sensibility – 14–26 July
- The Big Bad Wolf – 19 July