Picnics, camping chairs and sun cream (or rain macs…) at the ready – there’s an excellent line-up of outdoor theatre and music to enjoy in Bath this summer.
King Arthur and the Holy Fail (5 June)
A pop-up event to celebrate the return of Garden Theatre Festival the following month, this madcap show is suitable for all ages. Expect an epic tale of Arthurian adventure and medieval mayhem.
Romeo and Juliet at Bowood House & Gardens (10 June)
Watch a bold reimagining of the iconic tragedy in this vibrant sunset production, which also features original music. Pack your picnic, bring your chairs or blanket and don't forget to dress for the weather.
Othello at The American Museum and Gardens (12 June)
See one of William Shakespeare’s most thrilling tragedies brought to life in these spectacular gardens, while enjoying grand valley views. You're welcome to bring your own picnic, otherwise drinks and snacks will be available to purchase from the American Garden Deli before the show begins.
Image: American Museum and Gardens
The Great Gatsby at Bowood House & Gardens (1 July)
Experience the roaring 1920s as Jay Gatsby’s glittering world comes to life before you, complete with live music, opulence and glamour, grandiose. As well as bringing a picnic and a blanket or seats, 1920s dress-up is very much welcome!
Garden Theatre Festival (2 - 26 July)
The Holburne Museum’s picturesque garden will be transformed into an open-air theatre for the fifth edition of this family-friendly theatre festival. This year, there'll be adaptations of The Importance of Being Earnest and Sense & Sensibility, as well as madcap family show The Big Bad Wolf.
Image: Garden Theatre Festival
Sherlock Holmes & The Hound of the Baskervilles at The American Museum and Gardens (17 July)
Get ready for an evening of excitement and action, as this production from The Pantaloons Theatre Company offers a brand-new take on the famous Sherlock Holmes mystery. Follow Holmes and Dr. Watson as they attempt to uncover the deadly secret behind the Baskerville family curse—before it strikes again.
Circus Festival at Beckford's Tower & Museum (19 July)
Enjoy a day of family-friendly performances inside a “Little Big Top” tent, plus outdoor shows, and hands-on circus skills workshops throughout the day. You're welcome to bring a picnic but there will also be delicious food to purchase and an all-day bar.
Your circus ticket enables you to purchase a half-price adult admission ticket to Beckford's Tower for just £5 (full price £10). Children's entry to the Tower is free.
Othello at Dyrham Park (24 - 25 July)
A powerful story of deception and jealousy, The Lord Chamberlain's Men present Shakespeare's great play as he first saw it, in the open air, with an all male cast and Elizabethan costumes, music and dance.
If Opera's 2026 Season (6 - 16 August)
Head along for another spectacular season of shows in the beautiful grounds of Church Farm in Wiltshire. Bizet’s Carmen will be the centrepiece of the season, including a Carmen-inspired Family Fiesta Day on Sunday 9 August. You can also enjoy a brand-new production of The Chocolate Soldier by Oscar Straus, an evening of Baroque Drinking Songs, and a Picnic Prom celebrating the golden age of swing and jazz.
Image: If Opera
The Jungle Book at The American Museum and Gardens (9 August)
This much-loved family classic by Rudyard Kipling has been given a fresh new musical adaptation, with original music, audience interaction, and larger-than-life performances. Look out for all of your favourite characters, including Mowgli, Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther.
King Arthur and the Holy Fail at National Trust Avebury (21 August)
The Three Inch fools bring a night of medieval mayhem to the beautiful Avebury Manor Garden.
Jane Austen: Incurable Romantic (12, 13, 19 September)
Experience a brand-new wandering show in the heart of Bath, bringing Jane's stories to life around you while you explore key locations around Bath. This event is part of the Jane Austen Festival.
More ways to spend #SummerInBath:
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Held in the beautiful gardens of the Holburne Museum, The Garden Theatre Festival promises three weeks of top-notch performances, including The Importance of Being Earnest, Sense & Sensibility, and The Big Bad Wolf.
Bowood House & Gardens is the home to the Lansdowne family. Bowood offers a fantastic day out in Wiltshire for all the family. Famous for one of the UK’s most extensive Adventure Playgrounds, children are guaranteed the time of their lives.
Dyrham Park is nestled in 270 acres of ancient parkland filled with magnificent trees and breathtaking views over to Wales. Inside the house, visitors can get a flavour of 17th-century life while the garden includes formal borders, ponds and an orchard.
The 2026 repertoire will include Bizet's Carmen and Straus's The Chocolate Soldier in the secluded and peaceful venue of Church Farm.
Located on the outskirts of town, find the best day out in Bath with breathtaking views, fascinating museum collections, stunning gardens, gallery shop, children’s play area and the American Garden Deli, with its scenic garden terrace.
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