The Wilderness Stage

You'll find this open-air theatre tucked away on the edge of Chipping Norton, and it's the sort of place that catches you off guard if you're not looking for it. The Wilderness Stage is basically what it sounds like - a performance space carved into the landscape, meant for productions that embrace being outdoors. It's atmospheric in a way that most venues aren't, especially as the light goes golden in summer.

Who actually benefits from it depends entirely on what's on. Theatre types will get it immediately. Families with older kids who can sit still for a production will find it memorable, though the whole "exposed to the elements" thing is worth considering. Those just passing through Chipping Norton on a caravan holiday might pop by for the novelty, but unless there's a show scheduled, there's not much to do here beyond having a look around and taking a photo.

The practicalities matter here. You'll need to check what's actually happening before you visit - a stage without a show is just a stage. Opening hours and admission likely depend on the event calendar, so ringing ahead or checking online first saves disappointment. Allow an hour if you're taking it in as part of a wider walk around the area.

If you're staying at Cotswolds Caravan and Camping or Cotswold View just up the road, it's a fifteen-minute drive worth doing if something's on. On its own? It's a bit thin. As part of a proper theatre outing, it's cracking.