About Bishopmill Hall
Bishopmill Hall (often called Bishopmill Public Hall) is a community-run venue in the Bishopmill area of Elgin. It was built in the early 1930s (with an extension added in the 1960s) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ), originally by the Bishopmill Mutual Improvement Association (a local charity). The hall has two main spaces: a large hall for events and a smaller “Supper Room” for meetings, plus a modern kitchen (bishopmillhall.wordpress.com ). The building sits near the historic Bishopmill Bridge over the River Lossie (www.scottish-places.info ) (canmore.org.uk ). It’s considered a medium-size hall – roughly up to about 100–150 people capacity (venues4hire.org ) – making it versatile for local concerts, dances, parties and meetings. Recent refurbishments (new double-glazed windows and refreshed kitchens/toilets) have upgraded the hall, improving heating and comfort (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). Visitors note friendly staff and good facilities (ample space, level access ramp and well-equipped kitchen) (elgin.cylex-uk.co.uk ).
Events and Programming
Bishopmill Hall hosts a wide range of community events rather than large commercial tours. Regular uses include club meetings, classes, charity fundraisers and private hires (children’s parties, community dinners, etc.) (bishopmillhall.wordpress.com ) (bishopmillhall.wordpress.com ). A notable highlight is the annual Moray Concert Brass BeerFest (often called "MCBeerFest"), a family-friendly craft beer festival held each spring. It features local breweries (Spey Valley, WindSWEPT, etc.) and live brass music by Stein Brass (www.northern-scot.co.uk ) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). This popular event (usually in March) sells advance tickets (£20–25 with drink tokens) and raises funds for the band. Other public events have included family-oriented wrestling shows (e.g. W3L Wrestling, as promoted for November 2025 (www.ents24.com )) and even spiritual or mediumship evenings. Community dances, quiz nights, music recitals and holiday celebrations also appear in the program. In short, you’ll find amateur music nights, festivals, and local group events rather than big-name touring acts; ticket prices tend to be modest (see below).
Tickets and Booking
Most events at Bishopmill Hall sell tickets in advance through the organisers’ channels. There is no permanent box office at the hall. For example, BeerFest tickets have been sold via the band’s website and local outlets (like a sponsoring pub) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). It’s best to buy popular-show tickets early – advance booking is recommended and often required (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). Some events allow only limited door sales (e.g. a small number of BeerFest tickets were sold at the door for over-18s (www.northern-scot.co.uk )). Smaller community events or classes might let you sign up on the night for a fee or donation.
Ticket prices vary by event. For context, a wrestling show was around £14.55 (www.ents24.com ), while a large BeerFest was about £20 (including £10 in drink tokens and a souvenir glass) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). Prices can rise slightly over time (BeerFest 2025 tickets were £25 (www.northern-scot.co.uk )). Other concerts or talks often cost under £10. There are usually no tiered prices or VIP sections – most seating is general admission or first-come. In summary: check each event’s details for where to buy (often a website or local shop), buy early for big events, and expect community-level pricing (typically £5–£25).
Seating and Layout
The hall’s main event space is a simple rectangular hall with a stage at one end. Seating is flexible: rows of chairs (theatre style) or tables can be set up facing the stage. The floor is at ground level (no balcony or raked seating) and can accommodate up to about 100–150 people (seated or mixed) (venues4hire.org ). Sightlines are generally fine from any seat, though centremiddle provides the clearest view of the stage or performance area. There are no fixed VIP or box seats – early arrivals may choose the best available chairs. Acoustically, the exposed wooden floor and walls sound like a typical small hall: it handles speech or acoustic music fine, but very loud electric bands may feel boomy. The Supper Room (side hall) is much smaller, seating a few dozen and used for meetings or small gatherings. Importantly, Bishopmill Hall is wheelchair-friendly. There’s a ramped entry and ground-level access throughout (elgin.cylex-uk.co.uk ). In particular, reviews highlight the level access and accessible facilities, making it easy to find a good spot in a wheelchair. All areas of the main hall floor have clear sight-lines (no steps or pillars to block views). One viewing tip: if you’re attending a band or wrestling show, aim for mid-front seats for the best balance of sound and view (sitting right next to the speakers can be very loud). Otherwise any seat should do – local attendees often simply spread out in small groups.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Bishopmill Hall is located on Grove Place in Bishopmill, Elgin (postcode IV30 4LP) (venues4hire.org ). This is just off Bishopmill Road (north of the River Lossie). It is about 1 mile north of Elgin’s town centre. By car, drive via the Linkwood Road (B9010) and turn onto Bishopmill Road; Grove Place is a short side street on the left. Be aware there is no large dedicated car park for the hall. Visitors usually park on nearby residential streets or at the hall entrance (please be considerate to neighbours). For longer stays, Elgin has public car parks (Batchen Lane, Moray Street, South Street, etc.) about a 5–10 minute walk away. Many are pay-and-display (coins/card) and may be buses during evenings. If driving from afar, the A96 Elgin bypass (with the Moray Bridge) links easily to Bishopmill Road.
Public Transport: Bishopmill Hall is served by local buses. Stagecoach routes 10/10A (Huntly–Aberdeen), 12 (Forres–Elgin), 32 (Elgin–Burghead), 34 (Elgin town circular) and 133 (Elgin–Lossiemouth) all stop in Bishopmill (bustimes.org ). The nearest stops (for example "Bishopmill, opp Harrison Terrace" or "Bishopmill, at Fulmar Road") are just a few minutes’ walk (bustimes.org ). From Elgin Bus Station in town centre, routes 32 or 34 can take you into Bishopmill in about 5–10 minutes. Elgin railway station (Aberdeen–Inverness line) is about 1.5 km south – exit the station and take a taxi or catch a local bus north. There is no direct train to the hall. As always, check bus schedules in advance; Sunday and late-night services are infrequent, so a taxi may be needed after hours. Rideshare/taxi drop-offs can be done on Grove Place outside the hall.
Inside the Venue
Inside, Bishopmill Hall has a straightforward, no-frills atmosphere. You’ll enter at ground level via a ramp or step (staff will usually be on hand to guide newcomers). There is a small foyer area; coats can often be hung on provided racks or chairs (no formal coatcheck). Security is minimal – think friendly stewards rather than tight searches. As a community hall, there are standard safety rules: no smoking indoors (by law), and items like weapons or unsealed drinks are prohibited. Generally, expect a relaxed vibe.
There are public restrooms (separate male/female, recently refurbished) in the main level and an accessible toilet. The interior has fresh paint and large windows (thanks to the recent £35k upgrade), so it’s bright and warm compared to old halls (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). The ceiling and walls are of ordinary hall construction, so acoustics are live – there will be some echo in a full hall. There’s no public Wi-Fi or advanced tech; mobile phone coverage is decent but don’t count on downloads.
Food and Drink: The hall itself has no permanent bar or café. A modern kitchen is on-site (for the use of whoever hires the hall) (bishopmillhall.wordpress.com ). For big events like BeerFest, organisers often set up a pop-up bar and food stalls (the BeerFest offered craft ales, cider and hot snacks) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). For smaller events or classes, attendees usually bring their own drinks or visit nearby shops. It’s a good idea to bring water or a snack, since there’s nowhere to buy refreshments at the hall otherwise.
Other Amenities: Some events (concerts or fairs) might sell T-shirts or CD’s – feel free to browse any merch table at the back. Phones and cameras are normally allowed for personal use (with the usual respect for performers’ rights). If you have limited mobility, you’ll find the floor level (no steps) makes moving around easy (elgin.cylex-uk.co.uk ). Overall, this is a friendly hall: guests often praise the “helpful staff” and practical layout (elgin.cylex-uk.co.uk ), so any questions at the door or during an event can usually be answered on the spot.
Nearby Amenities
Though the hall does not have its own bar or cafe, a few convenient choices surround Bishopmill. Within walking distance (down Bishopmill Road or Lossiemouth Road) you’ll find a small cluster of takeaways and shops – for example, a local fish-and-chip shop, a Chinese/Indian takeaway, or a Sandwich shop – handy for a quick bite. However, the real variety of pubs and restaurants is in central Elgin (about a 10–15 minute walk or 3-minute drive). High Street and Lossie Wynd offer numerous options: pubs like The Richard Moss or March of Jazz for drinks, casual eateries such as 156 Bar & Grill or Rick’s Italian, and cafes like Batchen Street Coffee or Tomaso’s for coffee and sandwiches. If you want simple snacks, there’s a convenience store nearby at the church end of Bishopmill. Many visitors prefer to eat in town and arrive early for the event.
For accommodation, there are no hotels on Grove Place itself. However, Elgin has several hotels and B&Bs a short drive away. Budget chains (Travelodge Elgin, Premier Inn Elgin/Barnton) are conveniently located by the A96 and have free parking (www.tripadvisor.ie ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Charming guest houses like the Laichmoray House (a converted historic home in Bishopmill) or The Moray Lodge offer more character. For campervans, Riverside Caravan Park (just outside town) is an option. In short, plan your stay in Elgin itself; it’s only a few minutes from Bishopmill Hall.
What Makes This Venue Special
Bishopmill Hall’s charm comes from its community spirit and history more than any flashiness. It’s one of Elgin’s traditional public halls (built in the pre-war era) and has long served the north-town neighbourhood. Unlike commercial theatres, it’s run by local volunteers (the BMIA hall committee) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). The hall’s recent refreshment (new windows, fresh paint in 2023) has been widely praised – even neighbours have commented on the “exterior transformation” and brighter interior (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). The hall regularly hosts beloved local traditions. For example, the Moray Concert Brass BeerFest (with its foot-stomping oompah music and home-brewed ales) has become a much-anticipated annual highlight (www.northern-scot.co.uk ) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). Performers like Stein Brass and organisers say the festival’s atmosphere is “fantastic” and that Hall fills with happy crowds.
Visitors often note that, despite its modest size, Bishopmill Hall feels welcoming. Reviewers mention “helpful staff,” “a versatile large hall” and a “well-equipped kitchen” as positives (elgin.cylex-uk.co.uk ). It’s a place where artists and audiences mingle easily at eye level. Even without a grand facade, the Hall’s significance lies in its steady support of the local arts and community. In cultural terms, it’s a hub where Moray bands, clubs and families come together – an authentic slice of Elgin life rather than a tourist stage. All these factors give Bishopmill Hall a special place in the hearts of townsfolk and performers alike.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue has step-free access and an internal ramp (elgin.cylex-uk.co.uk ), so it is wheelchair-friendly. There are accessible toilets on the ground floor. Parents with prams will find it easy to move around. Since the building is older, rough audio-flooring can get chilly; wear a jumper in winter.
What to Bring: For booked events, have your printed or mobile ticket ready (organisers usually scan at the door). Bring photo ID if you’re attending an adult-only event (the BeerFest required proof of age) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). We recommend earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music (shows can get surprisingly loud in close quarters). A small torch or phone light is handy for navigating dimmed areas during performances. If you plan to drink, remember drinks are usually served in non-glass cups around the hall.
Clothing: Dress is very informal. A coat is wise in winter (the hall heats up with the new windows but can still be cool initially). There is no coat check – you may hang jackets on side racks or keep them near you.
Rules: Smoking is not allowed inside (smokers must go outside). Bags and backpacks are allowed; there is no strict search beyond normal security. Generally, common UK hall rules apply: no illegal substances, no weapons, and keep pets at home (guide dogs only). Photography for personal use is usually fine, but don’t use flash during performances and respect any “no filming” requests.
Arrive Early: For popular events, try to arrive 10–20 minutes before start time. This way you can park and choose seats easily. For example, the BeerFest drew a crowd right at opening time, and latecomers had to wait in a short queue (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). If you’re driving, leave extra time to find a spot or navigate buses.
Other Advice: Check the weather – access to Grove Place is outdoors (it’s uncovered), so bring an umbrella in rain. There is no free Wi-Fi, so plan any rideshare or messaging beforehand. Finally, enjoy the local community feel: feel free to mingle with friendly staff and ask questions. Everyone is eager to make your visit smooth and enjoyable! (elgin.cylex-uk.co.uk )
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full address of Bishopmill Hall?
Bishopmill Hall is located at Grove Place, Bishopmill, Elgin, IV30 4LP . This is in the Bishopmill area just north of Elgin’s centre. The hall is just off Bishopmill Road (A941). You can enter “Grove Place IV30 4LP” into your GPS or map app to find it accurately. Parking is usually on Grove Place itself or nearby.
What is the capacity or maximum seating of Bishopmill Hall?
It’s a medium-size community hall. Listings note its capacity up to about 100–150 people (venues4hire.org ). In practice, you’ll see roughly that many seats set up in the main hall for concerts or events. In seated theatre-style, you might expect around 100 guests; for standing events or parties, it can hold up to around 150 before it’s full (venues4hire.org ).
Does Bishopmill Hall have wheelchair access?
Yes. The building is level-entry with ramped access, and has ground-floor accessible toilet facilities (elgin.cylex-uk.co.uk ). The main hall floor has no stairs, so wheelchairs or prams can get around freely. Even reviewers note explicit “disabled access” features like ramps and level doorways (elgin.cylex-uk.co.uk ). Patrons with mobility needs should find the layout easy to navigate.
What types of events happen at Bishopmill Hall?
The hall is used for a broad mix of community events. Expect fundraisers, charity fairs, dance or yoga classes, bridge or hobby clubs, and private functions (birthday parties, meetings, etc.). One of its signature events is the annual Moray Concert Brass BeerFest (a beer festival with live brass band music) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). Other public events have included touring wrestling shows and small live music nights. It’s not a commercial concert hall, but rather a flexible space for grassroots music, local theatre, pop-up markets and the like.
How do I purchase tickets for an event here?
Tickets are usually sold by the event organisers themselves, not at the hall. For example, BeerFest tickets were sold in advance through Moray Concert Brass or a partner pub (www.northern-scot.co.uk ) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). Often you’ll buy online via the promoter’s website, or see local outlets (e.g. pubs, shops) carry advance ticket sales. There’s no permanent box office, so always check the specific event listing. If all else fails you can contact the promoter by email or phone. For smaller events, tickets might just be paid at the door in cash.
Are tickets available at the door?
It depends on the event. Many major events (like the beer festivals) have limited or no door sales – they prefer advance tickets. For instance, BeerFest 2024 sold most tickets in advance, with only a few leftover for walk-up (18+ only) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). Smaller club nights or community shows might allow door entry if seats remain. Always check the specific event info: it will say if door tickets might be sold. It’s safest not to rely on door sales for popular shows, and book ahead.
What are the typical ticket prices at Bishopmill Hall events?
Prices are quite modest. Many local concerts or classes charge under £10. For larger events, you might pay around £10–20. As examples, a recent wrestling show ticket was about £14.55 (www.ents24.com ). The annual BeerFest charged £20 (including a drink glass and £10 in tokens) (www.northern-scot.co.uk ), which rose to £25 in 2025 (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). Most events have flat pricing (no formal tiers), and often include refreshments in the price if applicable. Children’s events or charity performances may be free or donation-based.
Is there reserved seating, or is it general admission?
Seating is generally first-come first-served. The hall uses portable chairs and possibly tables. For concerts or films, chairs are arranged in rows facing the stage, but no seats are numbered. If entry is general admission, early arrivals pick the best spots. A few events might have assigned seating if announced, but that’s rare. Usually you get your ticket (or pay at door), then simply choose any available chair or space.
Where can I park when visiting the hall?
There’s no large public lot for the hall. The closest parking is on Gould Place and nearby residential streets (on-street parking). These are usually free but can fill up, so arrive early. For longer stays, use Elgin town car parks – Batchen Lane and Moray Street car parks are a 5–10 minute walk from the hall. A few disabled bays may be found near the entrance. Always observe parking signs. If those fill up, you can drop off in front of the hall and park a bit further down Bishopmill Road.
What public transport can I take to get there?
Stagecoach buses with routes through Bishopmill are your best bet. Many routes serve this suburb: Nos. 10/10A (Aberdeen–Huntly), 12 (Forres–Elgin), 32 (Elgin–Burghead) and 34 (Elgin town circular) all stop on Lossiemouth Road in Bishopmill (bustimes.org ). The nearest stops (e.g. “Bishopmill, Harrison Terrace” on route 34) are a short walk to the hall (bustimes.org ). From Elgin Bus Station, catch #34 or #32 northbound to Bishopmill. The Elgin train station is ~1.5 km south; here you could walk or catch a bus up Bishopmill Road. If in doubt, use the stop “Bishopmill, Fulmar Road” (Loop X) which is closest to Grove Place. Always check the latest timetables.
Is there a cloakroom or coat check facility?
No formal cloakroom. Because the hall is small, patrons usually hang coats on racks or leave them with their party. You’ll find a few coat hooks or racks in the foyer or hall. For larger events, you may be asked to keep coats near your seat. The staff may help if you have a lot of gear. In any case, valuables should be kept with you since there’s no secure checkable storage.
Can I bring food or drinks into the hall?
It depends on the event. Generally, you cannot bring your own alcohol into a licensed event like a beer festival or concert – they will serve drinks if allowed. For non-alcoholic snacks and soft drinks, small personal items are usually fine. Many events (like community classes) encourage bringing water. The hall doesn’t sell food or drink itself (except at special events where pop-up stalls might appear (www.northern-scot.co.uk )). You can buy takeaway food before coming or step out briefly during intermissions. Always follow any posted rules on refreshments.
Are children allowed at the hall?
Most family-friendly events welcome children, but some gigs are 18+. For example, the annual BeerFest was strictly over 18 (www.northern-scot.co.uk ). On the other hand, a W3L wrestling show is advertised as “great fun for all the family” (www.visitscotland.com ). Always check the event details. For drop-in community events (like toddler groups or dance classes), kids are obviously allowed. There is no general age restriction at the hall itself, just event-specific rules.
What is the nearest train station or airport?
The nearest train station is Elgin Station (on the Aberdeen–Inverness line), about 1.5 km away. From there, you can walk (20 minutes) or take a local bus up Bishopmill Road to the hall. The town of Elgin does not have its own airport; the closest airports are Inverness Airport (~50 miles) and Aberdeen Airport (~70 miles), each about an hour’s drive. From Inverness or Aberdeen, you would typically rent a car or take a bus to Elgin and then local transit or taxi to Bishopmill Hall.
Are there any event or dress codes I should know?
No formal dress code is enforced at Bishopmill Hall. Most events are casual community affairs. If you’re attending a special occasion (e.g. a charity dinner or concert), simply dress neatly. For beer festivals or wrestling, casual wear is typical (jeans, t-shirts). The hall can be cool when doors open, so you might want a light jacket. The main etiquette is to be respectful (no raucous or offensive attire). Finally, since it’s a public venue, smoking is prohibited by law indoors, so dress accordingly.
Is Wi-Fi or mobile phone signal available?
There is no public Wi-Fi network announced for Bishopmill Hall. Mobile phone coverage is generally available inside (check your carrier’s coverage map), and most visitors report being able to use data or calls. If you need internet for tickets or ordering a ride share, plan ahead. In practice, save or print tickets ahead of time, as relying on data might be risky in a crowded event. For emergencies, you should be able to make calls or texts normally.
Where can I stay nearby if I’m coming from out of town?
Accommodation is in Elgin itself, not in Bishopmill. Popular options include the Travelodge Elgin and Premier Inn (Barnton), both about 4 km away and noted for easy highway access (www.tripadvisor.ie ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Closer in Bishopmill is the Laichmoray House (a historic B&B, #3 on TripAdvisor), as well as several smaller inns. Riverside Caravan Park (on the river) is an option for campers. Booking ahead is wise, especially on festival weekends, as Elgin’s hotels fill up during events or holidays.
