A natural arena
The surrounding mill buildings frame the action and give open-air events an immediate sense of place.
Our spaces · 03
The Courtyard
Open sky. Historic walls. Festival energy.
2,500Guest capacity
Open-airSetting
RiversideLocation
The space
A landmark stage in the heart of the mills.
Enclosed by the brick façades of Rutland Mills and opening towards the River Calder, The Courtyard feels both monumental and welcoming. It is a natural gathering place with the scale to become a festival ground, open-air auditorium, market or one-off cultural destination.
Picture the possibilities
A space to make your own.
The principal event floor sits between the historic mill frontages, with a riverside edge and clear arrival point. The open layout gives organisers freedom to orient a stage, audience, food offer or market around the occasion.
Detailed extract from the supplied architectural plans
The CourtyardFestival flexibility
Use the broad central floor for a stage and audience, creative installations, street food, makers or a mix of experiences.
Riverside setting
The Calder and the wider Rutland Mills estate bring breathing room, heritage and a strong Wakefield identity to every event.
Made for
FestivalsLive musicMarketsFood & drinkBrand experiencesCommunity events
Bring your idea
See your event here.
Tell us what you're planning and we'll help you shape the space around it.
Plan your event