Northampton BID

The Old Savoy – The home of The Deco Theatre – Heritage Open Days 2021
2021-09-16 10:00 - 16:00, 2021-09-17 10:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | The Old Savoy â€“ The home of The Deco Theatre, Abington Square, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 4AE
The Deco Theatre, Northampton’s hidden gem, is host to a wide variety of shows, the Christmas pantomime, and many training events. Over recent years the theatre has thoroughly re-established itself and continues to grow from strength to strength.

The Building first opened on Saturday 2 May 1936 in a blaze of publicity as “the Savoy”, described as “Northampton’s only super Cinema” and reported to be “the last word in comfort”. It was part of the ABC group, designed by their prolific house architect WR Glen and built in under nine months on the site of the original Technical College. It was constructed in the International Modernistic style and is arguably the best remaining example of Glen’s work, with all the main features still in place and sympathetically renovated.
The Savoy was very popular and originally held almost 2000 people in the 696 seat circle and 1200 seat stalls. It was designed both as a cinema and theatre complete with orchestra pit. It hosted shows and concerts as well as films.
In the 1950s it was renamed the ‘ABC’ in line with the group’s national branding policy and was the local venue of choice for the touring bands of the ’60s, including the Beatles in both March and November 1963, the Rolling Stones in 1965 and infamously PJ Proby in 1965, when he was arrested for splitting his trousers on stage!
By the mid-’90s, however, the ABC now renamed Cannon cinema was unable to compete with the modern multi-screen complexes and it finally closed its doors in 1995 with the appropriately named “Terminal Velocity”.
The building was derelict for five years until 2000 when it was refurbished into a multi-purpose venue opening in October 2004, and now is the home of The Deco Theatre.
No booking required
Max 6 people per tour/session. 35mins Contact for the day: Jill Roach 01604 491005
www.thedeco.co.uk

60 Miles by Road or Rail pop-up - THURSDAY 16th - Heritage Open Days 2021
2021-09-16 10:00 - 16:00 | Grosvenor Shopping Northampton, Grosvenor Centre, Union Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2EW
Join 60 Miles by Road or Rail in a celebration of Northampton and Corby’s New Town heritage. Explore written and recorded memories from residents past and present and enjoy interacting with our pop-up multimedia exhibition. Suitable for all ages.

Did you know that in 1968 Northampton was designated a third-wave New Town? During the next two decades, it underwent a significant period of rapid expansion and migration that changed the town forever. The 60 Miles by Road or Rail project is exploring and recording the hidden histories, stories and experiences of this time and asking what it means to live in Northampton today.
Join a team of local artists and explore this pop-up heritage exhibition in the Grosvenor Centre. A large floor map of Northampton will fill part of the space, where visitors can add their memories of moving to and living in Northampton. Children can enjoy building small house structures to pop on the map, marking their homes or other places that are important to them.
A large timeline will display some of the rich written stories submitted to the 60 Miles by Road or Rail website, written by local residents, and marking clear moments in the New Town story. The timeline is also extended into the future, so children and adults can answer the question of what they wish for Northampton’s future â€“ Rented hoverboards? Free public transport? Ice cream day? You decide!
There will be a listening and recording zone, where people can sit and hear some of our oral history interviews of residents who lived, moved to or worked in Northampton or Corby during their transitions, plus you will be invited to record a story or memory to share, either individually or as a family.
No booking required

60 Miles by Road or Rail pop-up - FRIDAY 17th - Heritage Open Days 2021
2021-09-17 10:00 - 16:00 | Grosvenor Shopping Northampton, Grosvenor Centre, Union Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2EW

60 Miles by Road or Rail pop-up - SATURDAY 18th - Heritage Open Days 2021
2021-09-18 10:00 - 17:00 | Grosvenor Shopping Northampton, Grosvenor Centre, Union Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2EW

Royal and Derngate Theatres Tour - Heritage Open Days 2021
2021-09-18 11:00 - 14:00 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
Tour of the Royal auditorium, stage, workshops and paint shop, with a quick glace into the Derngate auditorium, which has rehearsals going on.

Built in 1884 and a recent full refurbishment completed in 2005.
Pre-booking: Required
Book via email or on the day
Email: rudi.gibbins@royalandderngate.co.uk
Booking closes: 17 September 2021 17:00

100 Years of United Counties - Northampton Transport Heritage - Heritage Open Days 2021
2021-09-19 10:00 - 16:00 | Northampton Market Square
A display of classic buses and coaches with free rides on historic bus routes around the town and county. Some stalls selling transport related items.

To commemorate the United Counties Omnibus Company being registered on 24 September 1921 we will be holding a centenary celebration. There will be a selection of former United Counties buses on display, some of which will run in service on historic bus routes into the county. Former Northampton Transport buses will operate on historic town services.
All bus rides are free.
No booking required
Bus services of various duration Contact for the day: Graham Croucher 07841 678018

60 Miles by Road or Rail pop-up - SUNDAY 19th - Heritage Open Days 2021
2021-09-19 11:00 - 16:00 | Grosvenor Shopping Northampton, Grosvenor Centre, Union Street, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 2EW

Meet the Commissioner
2021-09-27 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
Meet the Commissioner
Monday 27 September
BID members will have the opportunity to raise issues and concerns to be discussed with Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Stephen Mold.
The meeting has been arranged on the back of business visits by Northampton South MP Andrew Lewer.
Stephen will meet with a small group of businesses to discuss any concerns raised and representatives from key locations have been identified.
Please could businesses email info@northamptonbid.co.uk with any issues or concerns that they would like to be raised and these will be passed on to their relevant representative.
Representatives are;

Abington Street – Kerry Reynolds, Metro Bank
Bridge Street, Gold Street and St Peters Way – Danny Kintu, Escape Venue
Cultural Quarter – Julie Teckman, Vintage Guru
Grosvenor Centre – Tom Litchfield
Drapery, Market Square, Mercers Row, George Row, Wood Hill – Andrew Cruden, Market Square News

Northampton BID AGM
2021-09-30 14:00 - 15:00
Town Centre Businesses are all invited to attend the BID’s Annual General Meeting.
Thursday 30 September 2020
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BID Annual General Meeting & Ballot of Directors – Thursday 30th September
The Annual General Meeting of Northampton Town Centre Ltd will be held on Thursday 30th September 2021 at 2pm as a hybrid via Zoom and Physically.
If you would like to attend the meeting via Zoom â€“
Please email us on info@northamptonbid.co.uk specifying that you require a Zoom Link, we will then email you with this.
If you would like to attend the meeting in person â€“
Please email us on info@northamptonbid.co.uk to confirm this so we can monitor numbers.
The meeting will be held in Grosvenor Gatherings room on the 1st floor of the Grosvenor Centre.
If you would like to nominate a proxy to attend the meeting on your behalf, please complete the proxy form HERE and return this to us by email info@northamptonbid.co.uk . The proxy must make themselves known to Mark Mullen at the meeting prior to the commencement of business. Mark Mullen is your first point of contact if you have any queries about the completion of this form or the activities of Northampton Town Centre Ltd.
Voting will be completed online.
A member’s ballot for Directors seeking election/re-election to the board of Northampton BID (Business Improvement District) is now live.
To cast your vote, please follow the link below to the ballot HERE
Voting closes at 12 noon on Wednesday 29th September 2021.

Google Digital Garage - Get Your Business Visible on Google
2021-10-05 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Join us for the latest Google Digital Garage session delivered by Partnerships for Better Business.
Our ongoing partnership with Google Digital Garage continues to give businesses the opportunity to receive free live webinar training and upskill your workforce.

Get Your Business Visible on Google

Tuesday 5th October, 10am â€“ 11am
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About this event
A presence on Google Search and Maps can help customers and you more easily. Join us to learn about search and how to create an online listing for your business on Google Maps.
In this session you will learn:
? What is search and how does it work
? How to build your online presence and where it appears in search results
? Ways to optimise your online profile with Google Maps
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BOOK YOUR PLACE HERE
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Good to know:
This session is run using YouTube and is 60 minutes long. The course assumes no prior knowledge or experience so there is no pre-reading necessary. There will be the opportunity to ask questions during the session.

Fiver Fest
2021-10-09 - 2021-10-23
Fiver Fest is a National event for all independent retailers that is coming to Northampton, running from 9th October – 23th October. It was created by an organisation called “Totally Locally”.
The idea of the two week campaign grew from the Totally Locally message showing the huge impact people spending £5 per week in local independent shops can have on our High Streets.
£5 Offers may be from retail shops, food and drink venues, health and beauty and many other independent businesses.
Visit our web page to view the offers.
Northampton Town Centre BID is proud to be partnering with NLive Radio to promote the Fiver Fest event that was created by Totally Locally.

Google Digital Garage - Get Started with Digital Advertising
2021-10-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Join us for the latest Google Digital Garage session delivered by Partnerships for Better Business.

Our ongoing partnership with Google Digital Garage continues to give businesses the opportunity to receive free live webinar training and upskill your workforce.
Get Started with Digital Advertising

Wednesday 20th October, 10am â€“ 11am
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About this event
Digital advertising can help your business and new customers online. Apply or expand your digital advertising channels with this course. Learn about search, social and display advertising, and the different ways these channels can support your digital marketing strategy.
In this session you will learn:
? What is search advertising, and how to get started
? Different approaches to social media advertising
? How you can use display advertising in a campaign
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BOOK YOUR PLACE HERE
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Good to know: This session is run using YouTube and is 60 minutes long. The course assumes no prior knowledge or experience so there is no pre-reading necessary. There will be the opportunity to ask questions during the session.

From Dock to Drop - Tour of Sessions House and Gaol Block
2024-09-07 14:00, 2024-09-08 14:00, 2024-09-13 14:00, 2024-09-14 14:00, 2024-09-15 14:00 | Sessions House
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From Dock to Drop â€“ Tour of Sessions House and Gaols Site
Step back in time with our exclusive tour of the historic Sessions House and Gaols site—a rare gem that stood as the heart of law and order from 1678 to 1992.
Tour Dates:

Friday, 6th September: 10:30am & 2:00pm
Saturday, 7th September: 10:30am & 2:00pm
Sunday, 8th September: 10:30am & 2:00pm
Friday, 13th September: 10:30am & 2:00pm
Saturday, 14th September: 10:30am & 2:00pm
Sunday, 15th September: 10:30am & 2:00pm

What to Expect:

Explore the Grade I listed Sessions House—a unique survivor from the past.
Discover the stories behind its magnificent decorative plaster ceilings, full-length Royal portraits, and the intriguing â€˜Iron Machine.â€™
Stand at the very site where executions took place, and reflect on the grim reality of justice served.
End the tour at the Victorian County Gaol, now home to the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery.

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This is not just a tour—itâ€™s an immersive experience where youâ€™ll walk in the footsteps of history, sit in the courts, and even face the hangmanâ€™s noose. All in just 90 minutes—and itâ€™s completely FREE!
Booking is recommended due to limited spaces. Call 07746 116569 or email museums@westnorthants.gov.uk to secure your spot today!
Meeting Point: Outside Sessions House
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Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness history come alive!

Our Man in Havana
2025-01-18 14:30 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
White Cobra return to Royal & Derngate with a 90 minute roller coaster comedy, full of colourful characters, and ideal for all ages looking for a fun evening. The play is adapted by Clive Francis from Graham Greene’s iconic satirical novel, which was made into a classic British film starring Alec Guinness and Noel Coward.
Jim Wormold, an under-employed vacuum cleaner salesman living in 1950s Cuba, is struggling to pay for his teenage daughter’s increasingly extravagant lifestyle. So when the British Secret Service asks him to become their Man in Havana he can’t afford to say no.
There’s just one problem: he doesn’t know anything! To avoid suspicion he begins concocting a series of intricate fictions. But Wormold soon discovers that his stories are closer to the truth than he could have ever imagined.
FROM OUR COMMUNITY
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Venue:Royal

Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen
2025-02-01 18:00 | Northampton Museum And Art Gallery, 4-6 Guildhall Rd,, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP, United Kingdom
Fever ExclusiveTickets Selling Fast
Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen

? Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Northampton. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Queen at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery under the gentle glow of candlelight.
General Info
? Venue: Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
? Dates and times: select your dates/times directly in the ticket selector
? Duration: 60 minutes (doors open 45 mins prior to the start time and late entry is not permitted)
? Age requirement: 8 years old or older. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult
? Accessibility: this venue is wheelchair accessible
? View the FAQs for this event here
? Seating is assigned on a first come first served basis in each zone
?? If you would like to book a private concert or buy regular tickets for a large group (+30 people), click here
? Check out all the Candlelight concerts in Northampton
? To treat your friends and family to a Candlelight gift card, click here
Programme

I Want to Break Free
We Will Rock You
Somebody to Love
Radio Ga Ga
Donâ€™t Stop Me Now
Killer Queen
Crazy Little Thing Called Love
Who Wants to Live Forever
Bohemian Rhapsody
Love of My Life
We Are the Champions
Another One Bites the Dust
And more!

Performers

11-January / Sollar Music
25-January / Ensemble M

Saba’s Swim
2025-03-08 14:30 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
Seven months ago, Saba walked out of her GCSE mocks and didn’t come back. Her friends don’t understand why. Now, on prom night, Saba’s finally made contact, challenging her friends to track her down via a series of cryptic clues. But when the friends are finally reunited, Saba is different. The way she sees the world has changed. And what she’s asking of her friends… is it more than they can give?
This new play written by Danusia Samal, directed by Anna Simpson, and performed by the Royal & Derngate Young Company, asks probing questions about the responsibility of the individual in a troubled globalised world, as well as growing up, growing apart, and how far should you go for what you think is right.
The Young Company will also be performing Saba’s Swim as part of the National Theatre Connections Festival.

Content Warning: This performance contains flashing lights which may not be suitable for people with photosensitive epilepsy

Tambo & Bones
2025-03-13 14:30, 2025-03-15 14:30 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
Tambo and?Bones are stuck in a minstrel show.
It’s hard to know what’s real when you’re stuck in a minstrel show.
Their escape plan: get out, get rich, get even.
AN ACTORS TOURING COMPANY, STRATFORD EAST AND ROYAL & DERNGATE, NORTHAMPTON CO-PRODUCTION IN ASSOCIATION WITH BELGRADE THEATRE, LEEDS PLAYHOUSE AND LIVERPOOL EVERYMAN
In this exhilarating, funny and provocative satire, Tambo and?Bones journey from comedy double-act, to hip-hop superstars, to activists in a future America, contending with the alarming repercussions of a nation torn apart by race.
Spanning 500 years of history, Tambo & Bones laughs through our past, blows the roof off our present and imagines an explosive future for our world and for theatre.
Tambo & Bones was one of the most talked about cultural events of 2023 when it received its UK premiere at Stratford East. Directed by Matthew Xia, this Made In Northampton co-production opens in Northampton before embarking on its first ever UK tour.
Join the Conversation – Post-Show Discussion with the cast and associate director.
Wednesday 12 March
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to engage directly with the creative team behind Tambo & Bones! Join Director Matthew Xia, Associate Director Dubheasa Lanipekun, Jesse Jones, Artistic Director of Royal & Derngate, and some of the cast for a thought-provoking discussion about the show, its themes, and the bold, satirical exploration of race, identity, and revolution.
Ask your questions, share your thoughts, and dive deeper into the conversation.
This post-show event is free for ticket holders of the evening performance on Wed 12 March. Spaces are limited, so book your tickets now to secure your spot!
We have a dedicated Sensory Space available to all audience members throughout the show. This quiet, low-stimulation area offers a place to take a break, decompress, or step away if needed. It features dimmed lighting, comfortable seating, and show-specific resources for Tambo & Bones. Our aim is to provide a calm and supportive environment so that all audience members can engage with the production in the way that feels right for them. Please ask a member of staff for directions.

Content warning
This satirical show contains?sounds of gunfire, strong language, repeated use of a racial slur, references to ethnic violence and war crimes,?and discusses themes some may find upsetting relating to race.

Pinocchio
2025-03-13 19:00 - 2025-12-20 15:33 | The Old Savoy â€“ The home of The Deco Theatre, Abington Square, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 4AE
Anton Benson Productions return to The Old Savoy with their hilarious new Easter Pantomime… with no strings attached!
Join Pinocchio as he sets off on his adventure to Fantasy Island, where he hopes to learn right from wrong and fulfil his dreams of becoming a real boy. But will he follow his conscience or will the wicked Stromboli have other plans?
Starring Bobby Davro & Katie Price who will be joined by Kate Salmon, Ryan Greaves and Phyl Harries. There will also be a special guest appearance from Zippy & George from Rainbow!!
Showtimes 3pm and 7pm

Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical
2025-03-21 20:30, 2025-03-22 14:30 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
Following sell-out seasons in London and New York, the brand-new smash hit musical Cruel Intentions is coming to Northampton. Based on the iconic film and inspired by Les Liaisons Dangereuses, it’s packed with ‘90s pop classics including the songs of Britney Spears, Boyz II Men, Christina Aguilera, TLC, R.E.M., Ace of Base, Natalie Imbruglia, The Verve, *NSYNC and many more!
Step siblings Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn Merteuil engage in a cruel bet: Kathryn goads Sebastian into attempting to seduce Annette Hargrove, the headmaster’s virtuous daughter.
Weaving a web of secrets and temptation, their crusade wreaks havoc on the students at their exclusive Manhattan high school. It’s not long before the duo become entangled in their own web of deception and unexpected romance, with explosive results…
The iconic movie set to the decade’s best songs is an irresistible combination and with over forty 4 and 5 star reviews, it’s the ultimate 90s night out.
Bill Kenwright Ltd presents
Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical
Created by Jordan Ross, Lindsey Rosin and Roger Kumble
Based on the original hit film by Roger Kumble
Originally produced by Eva Price

Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings
2025-04-12 20:30 | Northampton Museum And Art Gallery, 4-6 Guildhall Rd,, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP, United Kingdom
? Dearest Reader, Lady Whistledown has already given her verdict: the event of the season is here! Join us for a magical live music performance with Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings in Northampton. Surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight, listen to your favourite melodies from Shondalandâ€™s ‘Bridgerton’ series on Netflix, reimagined by a talented string ensemble. Ready to make amazing memories? Get your tickets today!
General Info
? Venue: Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
? Dates and times: select your dates/times directly in the ticket selector
? Duration: 60 minutes (doors open 45 mins prior to the start time and late entry is not permitted)
? Age requirement: 8 years old or older. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult
? Accessibility: the venue is wheelchair accessible
? View the FAQs for this event here
? Seating is assigned on a first come first served basis in each zone
?? If you would like to book a private concert (30+ people), click here
? Check out all the Candlelight concerts in Northamption
? To treat your friends and family to a Candlelight gift card, click here
? Dear guest, there’s no strict dress code for this special occasion, but we encourage you to dress in your finest Bridgerton-inspired style!
Programme â€“ Top hits from the acclaimed Shondaland series on Netflix

Performers
11-April/ String Quartet â€“ Ensemble M
12-April/ String Quartet - 41 Degrees Quartet

Murder, She Didn’t Write
2025-04-16 14:30 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
Don your deerstalker, grab your magnifying glass and get your ‘finger of suspicion’ at the ready because Edinburgh Fringe favourites, Degrees of Error, are bringing back their multiple sell-out show for your sleuthing pleasure.
They’ll create a classic murder mystery on-the-spot in this ingenious improvised comedy. You, the audience, become the author as the cast act out your very own Agatha Christie-inspired masterpiece live on stage. At each show this extraordinarily talented company use audience suggestions to create a unique, original and extremely comical murder mystery just for you. All you have to do… is solve it!
Ms Gold poisoned at a synchronised swimming gala? Dr Blue exploded by cannon during a hot air balloon race? Professor Violet crushed to death at a Love Island recoupling? You decide!
But will you guess whodunnit before the killer is revealed?

Horrible Histories – Terrible Tudors
2025-04-17 18:30 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
Easter Holidays Family Fun!
We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead!
So it’s time to prepare yourselves for two amazing shows with Horrible Histories live on stage! Using actors and eye-popping 3D special effects, these two astounding shows are guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips!
Terrible Tudors: From the horrible Henries to the end of evil Elizabeth, hear the legends (and the lies!) about the torturing Tudors. Find out the fate of Henry’s headless wives and his punch up with the Pope. Meet Bloody Mary and see Ed fall dead in his bed. Survive the Spanish Armada as it sails into the audience!
Awful Egyptians: From the fascinating Pharaohs to the power of the pyramids, discover the foul facts of death and decay with the meanest mummies in Egypt. Are you ready to rumble with Ramesses the Great? Dare you enter through the Gates of the afterlife?
It’s history with the nasty bits left in!
Terrible Tudors: Wed & Fri 2pm, Thu & Sat 6.30pm
Awful Egyptians: Wed & Fri 6.30pm, Thu & Sat 2pm

Family Ticket Offer
Off-Peak: Family of three: £54 / Family of four: £72 (Wed and Thu performances – Price Band A and B)
On-Peak: Family of three: £69/ Family of four: £92 (Fri and Sat performances – Price Band A )

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE
BOOK 3 OR MORE SHOWS AND SAVE!
Book 3 or more – save 15%
Book 5 or more – save 20%
Book 7 or more – save 25%
Members enjoy an additional 5% off!
Book 3 or more of these shows and make great savings:
Treasure Island | Pig Heart Boy | The Smeds & Smoos | The King’s Speech | Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell | Breaking The Code | Bat Out of Hell | Top G’s Like Me

GamesWorld: Interactive Video Gaming Experience
2025-04-19 12:00 | Royal and Derngate Theatre, 19-21 Guildhall Road, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1DP
Join us for an Epic Gaming Extravaganza this Easter!

Player One: Ready? Player Two: Ready? Then prepare to level up your nostalgia as GamesWorld spawns in to Royal & Derngate for three days of interactive video gaming mayhem.
With 100 consoles and a high-score-worthy selection of games spanning the last 50 years – from Atari to Xbox, Sega to PlayStation and Virtual Reality experiences, there is something for every kind of gamer.
Whether you’re an old-school joystick warrior or a competitive button-masher, challenge your friends and family in multiplayer battles, rediscover your childhood favorites, and press X to relive gaming history.
90-minute bookable sessions and All Day passes available.
Plus a special adults only event on Sat 19 April at 7pm
