Hosting legendary performers like Bowie and Elton John over the years, South Mill Arts has been at the heart of Bishop’s Stortford’s community, arts, and heritage since the 1960s. Evolving alongside the town while staying deeply connected to the people we serve.
Bishop's Stortford
Museum
The Bishop’s Stortford Museum is based in Thorleyborne and Netteswell Houses, a pair of semi-detached late Georgian Villas which form the west side of the Arts Complex fronting on to South Road.
Spread across two floors, the museum displays take you through the development of Bishop’s Stortford and the surrounding area from pre-history through to the present day.
Bishops' Stortford
Theatre
We are home to a versatile 300-seat auditorium with retractable seating, offering comfort and flexibility for any event. Equipped with a stunning 4K digital projection screen and fully air-conditioned, it’s the perfect place to relax, be entertained, and enjoy unforgettable experiences.
It was wonderful to watch such a prestigious live production at SMA, long may they continue!
Venue hire
Event Spaces for Every Occasion
Looking for the perfect space for your next event? South Mill Arts offers a versatile and welcoming venue, ideal for everything from stage shows and dance showcases to conferences, business meetings, charity balls, family celebrations, and more. With flexible facilities, expert support, and a vibrant atmosphere, we’re here to help you create a memorable event tailored to your needs.
With several multi- function rooms, a small exhibition space, a fully appointed Dance Studio and our Maltings Bar, we can accommodate a host of events.
So, whether you’re planning a large-scale production or an intimate gathering, our spaces provide the perfect backdrop. Get in touch today to find out how we can bring your event to life!
Community
Activities
With our great range of museum events and activities, full theatrical, performance and cinematic programme and flexible, user friendly rooms we are a popular entertainment and educational resource for all the community. We also host several regular classes ranging from WW and keep fit through to performing arts and even ukele! With on-site catering facilities our rooms are regularly hired for family events such as anniversaries, baby showers and wakes.
Preserving and Celebrating Our Heritage
Since it opening in 1963 we have been in a constant process of development, always working to improve the services that we provide and tailoring what we offer to support our local community. Please follow the links below to find out about our journey.
Join Our Team
Join our team at South Mill Arts and be part of a vibrant community dedicated to arts, heritage, and making a difference in Bishop’s Stortford.
