Corn Exchange, Victorian arts centre in Market Place, Newbury, England
The Corn Exchange is a cultural centre on Market Place with a large main hall featuring Neoclassical architecture, including three bays, Corinthian columns, and round-headed windows in its stone facade. The building also houses a 40-seat cinema and a kitchen facility with indoor and outdoor seating areas.
The building opened in 1862 following the demolition of an earlier 1611 guildhall and originally served as a grain trading venue. Its transformation into a cultural centre reflects how the town adapted its public spaces to changing community needs over time.
The building functions as a community gathering place where locals and visitors come to experience theatre, music, and comedy throughout the year. These regular events shape the cultural life of the town and draw people from surrounding areas.
The venue sits centrally on Market Place and is easy to find, with clear signage and parking nearby for visitors. Online booking for performances is available, making it simple to plan a visit in advance.
The venue was the site of an unexpected incident in 1966 when The Who engaged in physical confrontations during their performance, making it a noteworthy moment in music history. This surprising event has become part of the venue's memorable story.
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