Aerial under the Arches: Discover how an abandoned church became the UK’s home of contemporary circus
Jacksons Lane, 269A Archway Road, London, Greater London, N6 5AA
Fifty years ago, the local community took over an empty Methodist church on Archway Road. With its soaring ceilings, spacious interiors, and distinctive architectural features, combined with a community-driven “say yes to everything” attitude, in those early years the seeds were sowed for it to become today's UK’s home of contemporary circus arts.
Over the past year, we’ve been capturing this remarkable heritage by building an institutional archive, recording oral history interviews, and engaging with the local community to share their memories and connections to the space.
On Heritage Open Day, we invite you to explore this journey:
• Wander through the building’s breathtaking architecture and learn how it shaped its new purpose
• Dive into our archive
• Listen to oral history recordings interviews
• Take guided tours around the building
• Try your hand at circus skills in free, drop-in workshops suitable for all ages
Whether you’re a longtime neighbour or a curious visitor, come celebrate the past, present, and future of this unique cultural landmark.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 13 September:
- 11.30am and 2.30pm
Location & directions
Jacksons Lane, 269A Archway Road, London, Greater London, N6 5AA
- Directions:
- Jacksons Lane is conveniently located directly opposite Highgate tube station, which is on the High Barnet branch of the Northern Line.
- Contact on day:
- Holly Wallis
- Telephone number:
- +442083405226
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- Book your free tickets on https://www.jacksonslane.org.uk/events/heritage-open-day-tours/#book
- Booking telephone number:
- +442083405226
- Booking website:
- https://www.jacksonslane.org.uk/events/heritage-open-day-tours/#book
Accessibility details
Our nearest step-free stations are Finchley Central (Northern Line) and Upper Holloway (Overground) A Visual Journey document is available on our website
Additional information
- Max no of people per tour:
- 30
- Est. tour duration:
- 1 hour(s) 0 minute(s)
