Flexible, accessible and affordable space hire for rehearsals & meetings in East London

Do you offer hire for anything other than rehearsals and meetings?

We don’t, but there are some excellent venues nearby for children’s parties and private parties. For children, there is space to hire in Victoria Park. You can also try the Roman Road Adventure Playground as well as the Cranbrook Estate Community Centre. For other parties, most of the nearby pubs have private rooms, and for larger gatherings, there are a number of dedicated events spaces.

Where exactly are you located?

We’re on the corner of Grove Road and Roman Road in Bow, East London. We’re an eight-minute walk north of Mile End Underground, and a five-minute walk south of Victoria Park. Our address and a map are at the bottom of this page.

How much does it cost?

Our hourly rate is £40. The half day rate is £150 (for 9:00am-1:00pm or 2:00pm-6:00pm). The day rate is £300 (for 9:00am to 6:00pm). Please contact us for weekly and monthly rates.

What spaces are available to hire?

You’re hiring the church in its entirety, and you have exclusive use during your contracted time. There’s a large rehearsal space (17m x 12m) with an unsprung wooden floor, as well as two smaller rooms (5m x 5m and 5m x 4m) that you can use as you wish (see rehearsal room floorplan). There are also two loos as well as a fully equipped kitchen.

Is there any parking?

There are a number of pay-by-phone (RingGo) bays that are a short walk away. You can park up to four hours for £4.70 an hour (8:30am to 5:30pm, Monday - Saturday). We’re very close, however, to Mile End Underground, as well as bus stops for the 8, 277, 425, D6 and 339 routes, which may be a cheaper, easier and more eco friendly option.

Is your church wheelchair accessible?

Yes, although please speak with us if you’d like wheelchair access to the kitchen. There’s an accessible loo as well.

What is the area like?

We’re a five-minute walk away from Victoria Park, one of London’s favourite green spaces, as well as the numerous pubs, cafes and shops on Roman Road. The area is generally safe, but you’re welcome to bring your bicycle inside the church for storage if you wish.

What if I need to cancel?

If you cancel more than 28 days in advance, we’ll refund your payment in full. If it’s between 14 and 28 days in advance, we’ll refund 50%, otherwise there will be no refund.

Are there any times I can’t book?

We don’t take bookings for Sundays, as we need the church for worship. We also require the church in the leadup to Easter and Christmas, as well as on Ash Wednesday. We can, however, work with you if you want your booking to span several weeks, but you won’t be able to access your equipment on Sunday unless otherwise agreed.

Who has used this space before?

Companies who have worked at St Barnabas include The Okai Collier Company, The English Theatre Frankfurt, Union Theatre, Stepping Out Theatre Company, Chrysalis, Fallen Angel Theatre Company, The Jack Studio Theatre and Unanimous Cohort Theatre Company.

What did they use the space for?

Over the past 15 years, theatre companies and organisations have been devising, auditioning, rehearsing and performing at our space. They’ve included musicals with casts of over 30, plays, a requiem, numerous concerts and performances, along with smaller development pieces such as readings and rehearsed workshops. The smaller rooms have also been used for social investment and other community-based projects.

Who do I contact about bookings?

Jane Preston takes care of all bookings. You can contact Jane at bookings@stbarnabasbethnalgreen.org.