Exciting changes are underway at The Old Courts.

After completing the testing, investigation and planning for the next phase of our building works, we now know that the floors in both the Theatre and Grand Vault need extensive restoration.

That means the Bailiff Bar will temporarily close after this weekend while the work takes place above it.

It’s a big job but it’s also a really exciting step forward. Our contractors are currently planning to hand the venues back to us early in 2027, and we’re already looking ahead to a big relaunch.

And don’t worry… The Old Courts is definitely not going quiet.

We’ll still be bringing you cultural events and activity throughout the works. Some will move into our former café space, some will take place elsewhere around the building, and others will be heading out and about across Wigan with some brilliant partners. That approach is already built into our plans for the closure period.

The Court Room, offices and private bookings remain unaffected, and we’ll continue supporting artists, developing new work and offering volunteering opportunities too.

This weekend is the last chance to enjoy the Bailiff Bar until 2027, so come down and say ta-ra for now.

On Thursday, we’ve got Mixer with Tenderfoot Theatre’s Eco-Makers Meetup as well as Jazz from the Kieran Matthews Trio in the main room. Friday is a more chilled affair before we bring Mis-Shapes back for September. We’ll have some special bye-for-now drinks offers at the bar too.

We’re looking forward to welcoming you back to our restored spaces in 2027. To stay in the loop, sign up to our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/heIVTv