Welcome to one of Oxford University’s most dynamic and inspiring spaces – a home to learning, culture and community. The Schwarzman Centre is a place for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re part of the University or visiting from the wider community.
The Stephen A. Schwarzman Centre, a new world-class centre for the Arts and Humanities will open to the academic community on 13 October 2025 and the public cultural programme will begin in April 2026.
The Schwarzman Centre, designed by leading British architects, Hopkins Architects, is a major new cultural campus in the heart of Oxford’s Radcliffe Observatory Quarter. The centre has been developed by the University of Oxford with the support of the largest single gift in modern times made to the University of £185 million from philanthropist and businessman Stephen A. Schwarzman.
The public performance spaces include the 500-seat Sohmen Concert Hall, a 250-seat theatre, a black box immersive performance space, dance studio and cinema, an exhibition space, a museum for the display of the renowned Bate Collection of historic musical instruments, café and bar, all set in extensive gardens.
Led by the appointment of Schwarzman Centre Cultural Fellows, the public cultural programme will bring outstanding artists, performers, writers and thinkers from around the world together with Oxford’s communities, including leading academics. With experimentation and co-creation at its heart, the cultural programme will present a fresh new experience for audiences.
Whether you’re catching up with friends, welcoming guests, or grabbing a quick coffee, the food and drink spaces are designed for you. The café’s and bars are the perfect spot to savour fresh, high-quality food that makes every visit a little more special.
