Arts Mansion

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Our vision is for Ashton Court to be an inclusive multi-use arts venue for Bristol and North Somerset facilitating art, theatre, performance and community activities.

In May 2018 Artspace Lifespace (ASLS) stepped in to take on the running of the mansion while options are being considered for its future. Since opening the doors to the public, we have hosted exhibitions, art and sculpture workshops, family events, team away days and provided theatre and dance rehearsals.

We opened regularly to the public during our first year to give the public the opportunity to see inside this iconic historical building. In 2019 we helped form The Friends of Ashton Court Mansion. On September 28th we concluded our programme of public opening with a free heritage day with Show of Strength Theatre, Dig for Victory and an exhibition from artist Amy Hutchings, the Friends of Ashton Court Mansion volunteer group and visions for the future of Ashton Court from six local schools. We will continue to support the Friends of Ashton Court Mansion run open days and tours of the building.

In Jan 2019 we hosted tours of the rarely seen derelict first floor of the South West Wing. In Oct 2020 we were able to squeeze in two days of socially distanced tours. All proceeds from tours support the activities of the Friends of Ashton Court Mansion (the FAM). You can find out more about the FAM by visiting their website, facebook page or email famvolunteering@gmail.com Discover more about the history of Ashton Court through our Heritage Lottery funded podcast or embarking on an architectural journey outside Ashton Court Mansion.

We are delighted to be working with Artspace Lifespace to open up the mansion house to the public while decisions are made on its long term future. We know how important the mansion house is to the people of Bristol, and it will be fantastic to see it full of life again.

Cllr Asher Craig

Venues for hire at Arts Mansion