Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Experience Arts & Culture at The Plough Arts Centre
Founded in 1975, The Plough Arts Centre has been a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in North Devon for five decades. Our mission is to provide accessible, high-quality arts experiences through a diverse programme of film, live events, workshops, and exhibitions. As a National Portfolio Organisation of Arts Council England since 2023, we combine historical significance with contemporary relevance, offering a vibrant hub for artistic expression and education. Our community-driven approach ensures inclusivity across age groups and abilities, supported by partnerships that extend our reach beyond Great Torrington.Financial self-sufficiency through diverse revenue streams enables us to maintain 95% independence from core public funding. The venues evolution from a 16th-century merchant house to modern arts centre reflects our commitment to preserving cultural heritage while embracing innovation. With 24 annual visual arts exhibitions and outreach programmes, we serve as both a local beacon and regional arts leader.
Services
Film Screenings
Live Events
Workshops
Exhibitions
Venue Hire
Caf Bar
Outreach Programmes
Poetry Competitions
Youth Theatre
Gallery Tours
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- 50 years of cultural programming excellence in North Devon
- National Portfolio Organisation status with Arts Council England
- 24 annual visual arts exhibitions featuring regional artists
- Community-led programmes for all ages and abilities
- Historic venue combining heritage with modern facilities
Associations and certifications
- Arts Council England
What people say
Vibrant arts hub
Unique historical setting
Engaging workshops
Diverse film programme
Services
Film Screenings
Curated film programme featuring mainstream, art house, and international films across two venues. Screenings include special events with post-film discussions. Ideal for film enthusiasts seeking diverse cinematic experiences in North Devon.
Creative Workshops
Adult and family workshops covering visual arts, crafts, and seasonal celebrations. Classes range from beginner to intermediate levels with expert tutors. Designed to nurture creativity through practical skill development in a supportive environment.
Live Events
Diverse live programming including theatre, comedy, music, and spoken word events. Features both emerging and established artists across multiple genres. Offers unique cultural experiences for local audiences and visiting performers.
Exhibitions
Contemporary visual arts exhibitions featuring regional artists across two gallery spaces. Program includes curated thematic displays and community participatory projects. Provides platforms for artistic innovation and public engagement with the arts.
Venue Hire
Flexible event spaces available for weddings, conferences, and special occasions. Includes historical buildings with modern technical facilities. Offers comprehensive support for hosting memorable events in a cultural setting.
People
Emma Marston
Chief Executive
Leading The Plough Arts Centre's strategic vision, Emma oversees operations and artistic programming. With extensive experience in cultural sector leadership, she drives initiatives that combine heritage preservation with contemporary arts provision.
Sara Pruce
Marketing Manager
Responsible for promoting The Plough's diverse programme, Sara develops marketing strategies that enhance community engagement. Her work focuses on expanding audience reach while maintaining the venue's cultural identity.
Sharon Dixon
Manager at St Anne's
Managing branch operations at St Anne's Barnstaple, Sharon coordinates local workshops and events. She ensures accessibility to arts programmes across multiple venues while supporting community participation initiatives.
Grace Rodgers
Gallery Curator
Curating 24 annual visual arts exhibitions, Grace fosters connections between regional artists and audiences. She develops thematic displays that showcase contemporary artistic practices while engaging diverse visitor groups.
Katherine Lockett-Clark
Youth Theatre Director
Overseeing creative outreach programmes, Katherine develops youth theatre activities and educational projects. She focuses on nurturing talent through structured workshops and community collaboration opportunities.
Questions
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept cash, cheques, and major credit/debit cards for ticket purchases and cafe services. Digital payment options available for bookings.
How do I book event tickets?
Book online via our website, call 01805 624624 during opening hours, or visit in person. We provide mobile tickets or name-list entry options.
What historical significance does the venue have?
The building dates to the late 1500s as a merchant's house, later operating as The Plough Inn before becoming an arts centre in 1975. It retains Jacobean architectural features.
Are there concession rates available?
We offer concession prices for students, seniors, and jobseekers. Specific details appear on individual event pages or contact our box office for assistance.
Can I host private events at the venue?
Yes, our spaces accommodate weddings, conferences, and special occasions. Contact our technical team for capacity details and equipment specifications.
Reviews (6)
Michelle Stewart
Jan 21, 2022
Report
We went to the cinema to see The Kingsman, thoroughly enjoyed the film and the cinema is such a joy, we had the place pretty much to ourselves. Lovely helpful smiley staff, there is a bar and seating area, that was comfy. They have an art gallery that showcases local talent, definitely a place to visit again.
Michael Secker
Jan 17, 2022
Report
Glad to see the cafe open again. Nice coffee and toasted teacake. Would be nice to see them doing meals again. Have been in since this review and had lunch. Very nice.
McSubway
Dec 23, 2021
Report
Very small cramped bad custormer sevice like no snacks for the movies And it was very cold and in the cinema there was no leg room and the chair were wobly
Paul Watts
Nov 21, 2021
Report
Good venue with great acts. Be warned though, if their website says 8pm, that's the time the show starts, not the time doors open.
Martin Tobias
Nov 07, 2021
Report
Allways a pleasure to visit the Plough. Great little cinema, clear picture and full on sound. Nice to have a drink with a film.
Justin Wheeler
Sep 23, 2021
Report
Came here for a intimate concert, staff were extremely friendly and couldn't have been any more helpful. Had 2 people in wheelchairs with us and they did everything they could to make sure our visit was a good one. Drinks were very cheap too
