Name: Scarborough Open Air Theatre
Address: US

Scarborough Open Air Theatre (SOAT) is the UK’s largest open-air venue, nestled in Northstead Manor Gardens on Burniston Road, Scarborough. Originally opened in 1932, the venue closed in 1986 and re-emerged in 2010 after a major renovation. Since then, SOAT has hosted world-class acts in an outdoor setting with a dynamic, seasonal calendar. With a capacity that has grown from 6,500 to 8,000 since 2017, the site offers an exceptional concert experience under the summer sky. We’ve got you with easy, straightforward ticket access and practical details to help you plan your visit.

Whether you’re traveling from nearby towns or staying in Scarborough for a weekend, you’ll find ample parking, simple transit options, and nearby hotels and dining that fit a range of preferences. See below for seating information, parking, transport tips, and trusted hotel/restaurant recommendations to make your outing smooth and enjoyable.

When you secure your seats at SOAT, you’re choosing a storied venue with a strong community vibe and a track record of record-breaking attendances (90,000 in 2018 and 116,606 across 18 concerts in 2024). The venue is proudly branded with TK Maxx presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre, reflecting its ongoing popularity and partnership strengths since the 2017 ten-year promoter deal with Cuffe & Taylor. For a dependable, no-fuss ticket experience, we’ll help you find the best options and nearby accommodations to complete your evening.

Venue Details

Address: Burniston Road, Scarborough YO12 6PF (Northstead Manor Gardens)
Type: Outdoor open-air theatre
Capacity: Expanded to 8,000 in 2017; historically 5,876 seats; achieved modern capacity through decked lake area
On-site branding: TK Maxx presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre

Seating and Accessibility

SOAT features an outdoor arena with a versatile seating layout designed to maximize sightlines and acoustics in an open-air environment. We provide up-to-date seating options for available great seats and the section you want at the time you search. If you have accessibility needs, let us know and we’ll help secure suitable accommodations within the arena layout.

Parking

Ample nearby car parks serve the Scarborough area. Council car parks are free after 6pm, making evening shows convenient for drivers and pedestrians alike. Plan to arrive early to guarantee a smooth entry and to enjoy nearby amenities before the performance.

Transportation

Nearest rail station: Scarborough. After a show, post-show buses run to the South Bay and Town Centre. Taxi ranks are available at Peasholm Gap for a quick ride back to your hotel or accommodation. If you’re staying in the North Bay area, the walk back is feasible for many guests, depending on weather and timing.

Hotels and Dining (Nearby)

Nearby hotels and residences within walking distance include the Park Manor Hotel, Green Tor, Premier Inn Scarborough North Bay, Villa Marina, and other North Bay options. For a seamless experience, we highlight affiliate partner recommendations for trusted hotel rooms and local dining that pairs well with SOAT events. If you’d like, we can link you to curated hotel options and restaurant partners to secure your stay and meal plans alongside your tickets.

Notable Facts and Highlights

Opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010
Attendance records: ~90,000 in 2018; ~116,606 across 18 concerts in 2024
2017 Cuffe & Taylor ten-year promoter deal expanded programming

Ready to secure your seats? We’re here to help with a straightforward, friendly process. No fuss, just reliable access to great events at Scarborough Open Air Theatre.

Scarborough Open Air Theatre Tickets

Upcoming Events at Scarborough Open Air Theatre