What we do

We are a public hall in the centre of Witney, located in West Oxfordshire. We serve the town by providing an arts venue that all can use and enjoy.

Whether you are looking for music, theatre, comedy nights, lectures, conferences or even weddings we are the venue for you. With a wonderful 19th Century building incorporating all the character you would expect, plus the addition of modern facilities, and not forgetting our wonderful in house café and bar 1863, we really are a destination and focal point for the people of west Oxfordshire and beyond.

 

WINDRUSH GENERATION 75 Books in the Corn Exchange

The river Windrush, after which the ship was named, runs through our town. To acknowledge this link and to offer an opportunity to learn more about this fascinating period of history and the experiences, good and bad, of those brave people.

There is a selection of books for all ages for café users to read and a risograph print based on original illustration by Kim Thompson depicts the arrival of the Windrush generation in 1948. 100% of the profits from these prints go to BME Cancer Communities here in the UK.

Cllr Ruth Smith, Leader of Witney Town Council commented,

“We all use the word Windrush in daily life, with so many things named after our beautiful river. Our ears prick up at news items about the Windrush Generation and their descendants. We are grateful for all they have brought to UK society, and we stand in solidarity with those still affected by injustice. These resources are a chance for Witney residents to learn more and to appreciate the history and legacy more deeply.”

 

Cllr Owen Collins, Mayor of Witney, added,

“I don’t think we all make the connection between our own River Windrush and the Windrush Generation, but that remarkable generation, and the ship that carried that, took its name from the river, like so many other businesses and locations throughout our town. It’s right that we commemorate and celebrate this connection, and on this 75th anniversary, I’m delighted that we’re able to properly mark this link, and the immense contribution that the Windrush Generation have made to our country for three quarters of a century.”

 

Our history

The Corn Exchange is a grade II listed building in the heart of Witney, providing a social and creative resource for the people of Witney and our visitors.

The Corn Exchange, Witney was built by the private ‘Corn Exchange Company’ in 1863, replacing a 16th Century building used in the 1850’s as a corn returns office. This beautiful stone building was designed by architect J. Collier of Putney in an Italianate style and by 1875 was Witney’s leading building.

From the outset, it was used for social events and meetings as well as corn dealings and housed several clubs and societies and we are pleased that it continues to fulfil this purpose and will continue to do so in the future.

Venue hire

If you are looking to hold an event, we have two wonderful rooms available for hire; the Main Hall and the Gallery Room.

Suitable for:

  • Wedding Ceremonies
  • Wedding Receptions
  • Celebration Parties
  • Corporate Events
  • Training/Study Days
  • Charity Events
  • Regular bookings/classes

Both rooms have Wi-Fi and extra equipment available upon request.

Contact us