The Old Slaughterhouse, Escape Arts

A Grade ll listed slaughterhouse steeped in local heritage…

A hidden gem in the very heart of Stratford – The Old Slaughterhouse Arts and Heritage Studio is a place to visit, learn and explore. With seasonal exhibitions, events and a full workshop and activity programme.

Escape Arts

After years of being boarded up and forgotten Escape Arts, funded by Stratford Town Trust, fully transformed this old slaughterhouse previously part of a long standing local business – Hensons Butchers, into a unique Heritage Arts Centre. The project has, for the first time, created a permanent central point to celebrate local heritage, to archive and to protect Stratford’s social, economic and cultural history for generations to come.

A memorable name

The Grade ll listed slaughterhouse is steeped in local heritage – records dating back to the early 17th century reveal it as a site for rope-making, wine merchants and then butchers. The building’s memorable name comes from the period when it was Henson’s Butchers. Founded in the late 19th century Hensons prospered as a family business which included an open fronted butchers shop as well as a food shop with the abattoir at the back.

Visit and explore

• Fascinating and engaging exhibitions programme inspired by Stratford’s history, it’s people, its buildings and businesses, celebrating local stories alongside archived materials not previously accessible.
• Take part in heritage themes activities linked to local festivals and events, visitor talks and living history experiences
• Sample scrumptious homemade cakes and mouth-watering chocolate brownies with local artisan rotisserie guest coffees in pop up vintage café.