About The Cheese & Grain
The Cheese & Grain is Frome’s iconic community-run music and arts venue. Housed in a richly historic market hall, the building dates back over 150 years to its days as a trading centre for local farmers’ cheese and grain. It was restored as a creative hub in 1998, and today operates as a not-for-profit charity (www.cheeseandgrain.com ) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). The venue has become a cornerstone of the South West’s live-entertainment scene – presenting hundreds of events each year and welcoming quarter of a million visitors annually (www.frometimes.co.uk ) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). It is beloved locally for its inclusive, “nourishing” ethos: as the venue puts it, it aims to be “the soul of Frome” and a hub where “everyone is welcome” (www.cheeseandgrain.com ) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Patrons have even included Glastonbury organizer Emily Eavis (a patron since 2009) and Frome’s own folk star Cara Dillon, reflecting the venue’s strong community roots (www.frometimes.co.uk ) (www.frometimes.co.uk ).
The venue comprises a large main hall (standing capacity 835, or about 500 seated (www.cheeseandgrain.com )) plus a café/bar and a mezzanine of meeting rooms and offices. There is also a professional recording studio (the Bert Jansch Studio) and a newer “Tree House” venue upstairs above a local pub. These smaller rooms host workshops, rehearsals and intimate gigs, while the main hall stages big concerts, comedy nights, markets and conferences. As one source notes, the Cheese & Grain’s calendar is “packed” with everything from world-class gigs to bustling artisan markets and community festivals (www.cheeseandgrain.com ) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Its name is a nod to history – the building’s original use as a farmers’ market for cheese, grain and agricultural goods (www.cheeseandgrain.com ) – and it remains proudly “upcycled, eccentric, creative and independent,” reflecting the unique character of Frome (www.cheeseandgrain.com ).
Events and Programming
The Cheese & Grain runs a hugely varied programme year-round. It averages around 130 live performances annually (www.cheeseandgrain.com ) covering every genre from rock and pop to folk, jazz and world music. Promoters regularly book national and international acts here – recent headliners have included comedy star Mark Watson and punk legend John Lydon, as well as trims like Stuart Murdoch of Belle & Sebastian (www.cheeseandgrain.com ) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). The schedule also features tribute shows, classical or cabaret nights, spoken-word events and family workshops. In a typical week you might find anything from a touring indie band to a stand-up special or a children’s chocolate fair. Beyond ticketed shows, the venue is also home to free or community-driven events: for example, the Wednesday evening “Roots Sessions” showcase local music talents in the bar, and regular themed markets fill the hall (antiques every Wednesday morning, a farmers’ market on Thursdays, plus seasonal craft fairs) (www.frometimes.co.uk ) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Special annual events – such as a Children’s Festival each July, a Christmas festival, writing or wellbeing conferences – also draw locals and visitors alike.
Tickets for concerts and shows typically range from modest prices up to about £20–30 for big acts (plus any booking fee) – for example, a recent Roots reggae band priced tickets around £25 (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Comedy or smaller performances may cost less, and many markets and daytime events (like fairs) offer free entry. The venue also runs a season of children’s plays, film screenings and community workshops at low cost. Any special ticket announcements or package deals are posted on the official site and newsletter, and joining the venue’s supporters scheme (“Friends of Cheese & Grain”) can give members early access and discounts on popular events (www.frometimes.co.uk ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets can be purchased online through the Cheese & Grain’s official box office or in person/over the phone. The on-site box office (at Justice Lane, Market Yard) is open Monday–Saturday 9:00–13:00 and 13:30–18:00, and reopens in the evening on show nights at advertised door-times (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). (Sundays the box office only opens for specific events.) The phone number is 01373 455420. Many popular shows sell out, so it’s wise to book early. In fact, supporters who join as “Friends” (annual donation) gain a priority booking window before each sale (www.frometimes.co.uk ). Online pre-sales usually start weeks or months ahead for big acts, while smaller events sometimes allow on-the-door sales if not sold out.
Important ticket policies: all sales are final (no refunds or exchanges) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ), so double-check dates and times before buying. If bringing a printed or e-ticket, you’ll be asked to show it at entry – or you can collect tickets from the box office up to showtime. The venue’s Terms also state that management may refuse admission or treat ticket holders to the rules (for example, latecomers may have to wait until the next break to enter, and bags and cameras are subject to check) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). In practice, this means arrive a bit early, keep your ticket ready, and follow any emailed or posted instructions for door times and queueing. There are no service-charges beyond standard booking fees, and most ticket purchases include dining or cloakroom discounts for “Friends” if applicable (www.frometimes.co.uk ). If you plan to pay cash, note that the official box office accepts it, and card/contactless is widely taken as well.
Seating and Layout
The main hall is a large rectangular space with a fixed stage at one end. Electricity wiring and modern lighting rigs have been added, but you can still feel the history in the high stone walls and wooden beams. For standing concerts or gigs, the hall holds up to 835 people (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). On seated nights (the most likely setup for comedy, talks or acoustic shows) there are usually rows of chairs facing the stage, and the seated capacity is roughly 500 (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). There is no permanent balcony or upper tier for the main audience – all seating/standing is on the flat floor. (However, on the mezzanine level upstairs there are small meeting rooms and a hot-desk area if you need a quiet break.)
If you need a seat at a standing gig (for health or mobility reasons), the venue can usually accommodate you; it is best to notify the box office in advance so they can reserve an appropriate space or seat. Wheelchair users can be seated at front-of-hall spaces – accessible seats are available for all seated events (www.cheeseandgrain.com ), and portable seats can often be added. For a lively rock or dance show, front-of-stage (if you’re standing) gives the fullest sound and atmosphere, but any spot is fine – some find the center front or slight sides more balanced acoustically. Note that some reviews have mentioned the sound system is tuned for front-center, so very far back the bass may feel softer (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). If the hall does get too crowded for comfort, the adjacent café/bar area often stays open during events, allowing you to hang back with a drink and still see or hear the show from the bar seating.
General queries: there is no formal dress code – crowds range from casual to smart-casual depending on the event. Table and counter seating in the café is first-come, and sometimes fills early on busy show nights. A staffed cloakroom is normally offered (free for members (www.frometimes.co.uk )) so you can hand in coats for security and convenience. Restrooms (including disabled-access toilets) are on the ground floor; additional toilets and even a full Changing Places unit are accessible from the adjacent car park (ask at the box office for the key) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ).
Getting There and Parking
The Cheese & Grain is centrally located at Market Yard, Justice Lane (Frome BA11 1BE) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ), just off Frome’s historic town square. If you’re driving, the venue sits in the large Market Yard/Cattle Market public car park on Bridge Street, which is pay-and-display from 9 am to 6 pm on weekdays and Saturdays (coin or MiPermit app), and becomes free after 6 pm (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Evening events benefit from the free-after-6 rule, but do plan ahead – this car park fills for big concerts. Additional parking is available at nearby lots (e.g. the Saxonvale/Merchant’s Barton car park on Princes Street or smaller street bays). Remember to display a blue badge if needed: 21 marked disabled bays surround the venue (www.cheeseandgrain.com ), and an accessible drop-off point is at the venue entrance.
Public transport: Frome’s main bus stops are on Market Place, just 0.2 miles (5 –10 minute walk) from the Cheese & Grain (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Several Somerset bus routes stop here (including routes to Bath, Bristol, Warminster, etc). Frome train station (Great Western Railway/South Western Railway) is about 0.8 miles away – roughly a 15–20 minute walk or a short taxi ride (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Trains from Bath and Westbury come reasonably frequently in daylight hours, but check the timetable if you’ll need a late return. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs can be done along Justice Lane (the venue address) or at the car park entrance. Note: Frome town centre is pedestrian-friendly but hilly in spots; wear sensible shoes or allow extra time if walking from the station or a distant car park.
Inside the Venue
On entering, you’ll find a foyer with the box office desk and a doorway straight into the main hall. Tickets are scanned here and friendly staff conduct quick bag checks for safety. As noted above, guests are limited to one small bag (roughly A4 size) per person (www.cheeseandgrain.com ) – anything larger will be checked at the door or politely refused for security reasons. Exceptions are made for medical supplies or accessibility aids (www.cheeseandgrain.com ), but otherwise plan to keep belongings minimal. 摄影前确保 read our policies. Note that outside food or sealed drink containers are not allowed through the doors, but empty bottles can be refilled inside – there’s free drinking water at the bar (www.cheeseandgrain.com ).
Once inside, the atmosphere is usually friendly and lively. The bar/café is on one side of the hall and serves sit-down meals (breakfast snacks to evening dinners, with vegetarian and vegan options) as well as hot drinks and local ales/wines. In the evening you can grab a counter meal or drink pre-show; it often turns into an informal waiting area or even a mini-stage for acoustic performers if a gig is not in the main hall. There is live music in the bar on many nights (the “Roots Sessions” event on Wednesdays is a regular open-mic showcase). If you’re not close to the stage, you can often step back to the café bar area and still enjoy the music. Free Wi-Fi and charging plugs operate in the bar area, and the upstairs mezzanine has a “Hot Desk” co-working area (day-rate desks, power points and quiet atmosphere) if you need to work or wait quietly during a matinee or all-day event.
During performances, ushers are on hand if needed – for example, to help find the reserved wheelchair spot or to direct latecomers to seating during an interval. Ushers and security will also enforce the no-smoking policy inside (there is a smoking area outside the front door) and general etiquette (knowingly abusing others will lead to removal). After shows, a cloakroom (with coats and bags kept securely) is available – often free for members (www.frometimes.co.uk ) and for a small fee to others. Merchandise stands are common when bands play, so vendors may have CDs, t-shirts and posters near the exit or in the bar. Overall the venue is relaxed and safe, mixing the feel of a friendly country hall with professional concert lighting and sound.
Nearby Amenities
The venue is right in the heart of Frome town centre, so dining and lodging options abound within a short walk. For pre-show meals, popular nearby restaurants include The High Pavement (Mediterranean/Spanish cuisine, ~0.4 km) (www.tripadvisor.ie ) and Castello (Italian pizza/pasta, ~0.4 km) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). The Griffin (on Milk Street, ~0.3 km) is a beloved pub known for burgers, craft beer and hearty pub fare. Tasty café and quick-bite spots line the pedestrian High Street: Hamper Sandwich Shop (gourmet sandwiches), The Garden Café, and Thai and Indian restaurants are all under 5 minutes’ walk. The venue’s own café-bar is open throughout the day for coffee, cake or a light lunch. After gigs, Frome has several pubs and bars (including a new craft-beer bar Wolfpack and the lively Kings Arms in the Market Place) if you want a nightcap.
Nearby hotels and B&Bs include The George Hotel (a small traditional Inn on Fore Street, about 0.5 km away) and a handful of guesthouses and self-catering cottages dotted around town. Those can be booked in advance, especially around major events. It’s best to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before doors if you’re dining out or catching the last bus. Public buses evening schedules thins down after 9 pm, so late-night taxis or rideshares are the reliable option home after a show. (Taxi ranks are near Market Place; ask staff or the venue for local taxi numbers.) Frome is safe even late at night, but do watch traffic when crossing streets in the dark.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things set The Cheese & Grain apart. First, its deep roots in Frome’s history and community give it a soul you don’t get at corporate halls. The building itself is a restored Victorian market hall (Grade II-listed), which yields a grand open space with old wooden beams – a dramatic backdrop that many visitors admire. It reminds guests they’re part of local heritage every time they step inside. Second, the venue’s ethos: it’s truly for the community. As one write-up declares, in a town that’s “upcycled, eccentric, creative and independent,” the Cheese & Grain “is here to nourish” that spirit (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). This means diverse programming – folk and rock gigs share the calendar with chess clubs, healthy living cafés, talk events and charity fundraisers. For example, the venue runs a free weekly bingo to support young carers, open talks for mental health, and even chess clubs for kids. All this makes it more than just a gig venue – it’s the beating heart of Frome’s arts and social scene (www.frometimes.co.uk ) (www.frometimes.co.uk ).
Artists love playing here too. It’s intimate enough that even big names feel close to the crowd, yet large enough to support professional stage production. It has gained a reputation across the region as a must-play stop. Anecdotally, the venue’s patrons (from Emily Eavis to Cara Dillon) testify to its friendly, unpretentious vibe – a place where you might bump into old friends in the audience. The venue’s contribution to the local economy is not trivia either: it draws about 70% of its audience from outside Frome (www.frometimes.co.uk ), bringing business to local shops and restaurants. And culturally, it’s spawned fun local traditions (like a vendor-run chocolate shop yearly, or longtime open-mic nights) that make attending an event there feel like joining a town-wide party. In short, The Cheese & Grain is special because it blends the feel of a village community centre with the energy of a modern indie venue, all under one historic roof.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is broadly accessible. Ramped entry and a ground-floor layout mean wheelchairs and pushchairs can get in easily (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). The main hall’s floor is flat and the accessible toilets and Changing Places facility are nearby (ask at the box office for access) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Reserved wheelchair spaces with nearby seating are available at all seated events (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). If you or someone with you has special needs, mention it when booking so staff can make accommodations. The venue also participates in the Essential Companion Scheme, allowing a free ticket for a carer if needed.
Entry: Please arrive ahead of the advertised start time. Doors typically open ~30–45 minutes before the show’s published start (for example, an 8 pm concert usually has 7 pm doors). A small queue may form outside for popular events. Bring your printed or digital ticket (the barcode is scanned at entry). Have a photo ID if you or your companions might be asked (especially for 18+ or 16+ events or pop-up bars). Bag searches are the rule, so allow an extra 5–10 minutes if you are bringing personal items. Do not bring large backpacks or suitcases – security will turn these away (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Feel free to bring a foldable travel cup; empty bottles can be refilled with free water inside (www.cheeseandgrain.com ).
Policies: No outside food or drinks are allowed (café food and bar are on sale inside). Smoking is not permitted indoors (the smoking area is outside). Recording and photography with flash is generally prohibited (www.cheeseandgrain.com ), although casual phone photos from the audience are usually tolerated in modern pop/rock shows (always double-check posted rules for each event). Cameras with large lenses or video cameras are not allowed. Bags: each guest may have one small bag (A4 size or smaller) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Bigger bags, tripods and similar items will be refused. If you’re unsure, contact box office in advance. Dress codes are relaxed – smart casual is common, and the temperature is usually warm inside (the hall can be dim or stuffy, but staff manage heating depending on the weather). Wear something comfortable if you plan to stand or dance. If attending a seated show, bringing a light sweater is wise as ventilated seating halls can cool down.
Age restrictions: By default live music events at the Cheese & Grain are open to ages 10 and up (no babies in arms) – younger children are generally not admitted unless it’s a specifically family-friendly or daytime event (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Strictly 18+ shows are clearly marked (for example, events at The Tree House upstairs are all 18+ (www.cheeseandgrain.com ) (www.cheeseandgrain.com )). Always check the event listing if bringing teenagers. If under 18 is allowed, be prepared to show ID for at-door age checks (especially for late-night or bar-serving events).
Insider advice: Check the venue’s newsletter or social feed in the weeks leading up to an event – they often post set times, support acts, and venue notices. Also, if a show sells out online, checking the box office day-of is worthwhile in case of returned tickets. Midweek gigs often have easier parking; weekend shows can fill nearby car parks so arrive earlier or consider walking a short distance from a further lot. Keep some change for the car park if arriving early on a weekday. Finally, be sure to enjoy the whole experience: chat in the buzzing café, browse local handicrafts at the foyer, and soak up the unique atmosphere. Most visitors agree it’s a friendly, inclusive crowd – don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with fellow gig-goers in the queue or queue at the bar. With a bit of planning and the right gear (ticket, ID, small bag), a night at The Cheese & Grain should be memorable for all the right reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Cheese and Grain?
The main hall of the Cheese & Grain holds about 835 standing or roughly 500 seated (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). In addition, the bar/café area can accommodate around 100 people for smaller performances (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Upstairs, the Tree House venue is an intimate 110-capacity room (denoted 18+ only) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Capacities are lower if temporary staging or extra seating is added for a specific event.
Why is it called “The Cheese & Grain”?
The name comes directly from the building’s historic use. For over a century it was a market hall where local farmers and merchants came to buy and sell cheese, grain and other produce. The venue keeps that heritage alive in name – reminding the community of its roots as a centre for food trade and gathering (www.cheeseandgrain.com ).
How do I buy tickets and when do they go on sale?
Tickets are sold online through the official box office website, and also in person or by phone at the on-site box office (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Popular shows are typically announced weeks or months in advance. Generally, tickets for major acts go on sale early, so it’s best to visit the venue’s website or newsletter for on-sale announcements. The box office team can be called at 01373 455420 or visited Mon–Sat 9am–1pm and 1:30pm–6pm (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Joining the Friends priority mailing list can get you early notice or presale codes for busy events (www.frometimes.co.uk ).
Are tickets refundable or interchangeable?
No – all tickets are final sale. The venue’s policy is that tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded for any reason (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). You should double-check dates, times and ticket details before purchase. If a show is cancelled by the artist or promoter, they may offer a refund or transfer, but standard changes of plan are not covered.
What time should I arrive for a concert or show?
Doors usually open about 30–45 minutes before the advertised start time (for example, if a gig starts at 8:00pm, expect doors around 7:15–7:30pm). This allows time for tickets to be scanned and any bag checks or cloakroom drop. It’s wise to arrive early if you want front-row space or to use the café first. On very busy nights, arriving 1 hour ahead can avoid the longest queues.
Is there on-site parking and what does it cost?
Yes. The venue sits in the Market Yard (Cattle Market) car park on Bridge Street. Daytime parking (9am–6pm) is pay-and-display (coins or MiPermit app); for example 4 hours is around £2–£4 depending on latest council rates. However, after 6pm all parking there is free (www.cheeseandgrain.com ), which covers most evening events. Note that this lot can fill up for big concerts, so consider other town centre car parks or arriving early. Disabled badge holders have reserved spaces in the Market Yard lot (www.cheeseandgrain.com ).
What public transportation serves the venue?
The nearest bus stop is at Frome Market Place, a short 3–5 minute walk (0.2 miles) from the venue (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Many local and regional buses stop there (services to Bath, Bristol, Warminster, etc.). Frome railway station is about 0.8 miles away, roughly a 15-minute walk (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Trains on the Great Western line (from Bath, Westbury and beyond) and the local Frome to Yeovil line can get you there; just check times as late trains are limited. Taxis and rideshares can drop you off on Justice Lane right outside the doors.
What is the venue’s layout and best viewing spots?
The main hall is a single large room with the stage at one short end. There are no fixed balconies or separate gallery, so all audience space is on one level. For general-admission standing concerts, any spot you choose is valid – the sound is strongest closer to the stage. The center-front area tends to have the best acoustics and sightlines (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). If seated, aim for the front half if you want an immersive experience or towards the center for balanced sound. The hall can get warm; wearing breathable layers is wise. Note that at paid seated shows, a few spots are held for wheelchair users (please reserve in advance). Even on busy nights, you can often step back into the café/bar area and still hear or see the end of performances from there.
Can I bring a bag or drink into the venue?
Each person may bring one small bag (up to A4 notebook size) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). Oversized bags or cases are not permitted (no on-site storage is available), so please pack lightly. Bags will be searched on entry for security. You cannot bring outside food or drinks – empty bottles are allowed so you can refill at the water station, and free drinking water is available (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). If you have medication or accessibility needs that require a larger bag, contact the venue in advance so arrangements can be made (www.cheeseandgrain.com ).
Are there food and drink facilities inside?
Yes. The Cheese & Grain has a good-sized café/bar on site that is open daily (roughly 9am–5pm, later on show nights). They serve full meals – sandwiches, soups, hot dishes and desserts – plus hot drinks in the day and alcoholic beverages and cocktails in the evening. Expect decent coffee, cakes and full meals. The bar stocks local ales, ciders and wines. On event nights the café often opens earlier and stays open late, so you can arrive for dinner or a drink before a show. 10% discount on cafe/bar items is offered to “Friends” members with tickets (www.frometimes.co.uk ). Cash and card are accepted at the bar/café.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, The Cheese & Grain is largely wheelchair accessible. There is step-free ramp access at the front entrance, and all public event spaces (café, hall and front foyer) are on one flat level (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). There is also a lift to the second-floor meeting rooms. Accessible toilets are conveniently located next to the foyer, and a full Changing Places facility is available in the adjacent car park (key available at box office) (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). If you require any assistance (seating, level access or general help), just contact the venue in advance or speak to staff on arrival. The venue also offers a free companion ticket scheme to anyone who needs an essential helper when attending events (www.cheeseandgrain.com ).
Are there age restrictions or family tickets?
Most concerts have a recommended minimum age of 10. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Babies in arms are not allowed. Exceptions (e.g. special children’s matinee events) will be clearly advertised separately. The upstairs Tree House venue is strictly 18+, and those shows will be marked accordingly. Family or child ticket prices (if offered for an event) will be listed in the event details; parents should plan for child seating or consider whether the event atmosphere is suitable. The venue staff can advise on a case-by-case basis.
Can I take photographs or record video?
No professional cameras, recording equipment or flash photography are allowed in the venue (www.cheeseandgrain.com ). This is to protect performers and other guests. You may usually take casual smartphone pictures for personal use during a show (without flash), but some acts or events may forbid any recording – signage will be posted if that’s the case. Video recording of performances is strictly prohibited. If you’re caught with prohibited gear, the staff will ask you to delete the content or escort you out per the conditions of sale.
What should I wear and bring for an event?
Dress is very casual. Concert-goers often wear jeans, t-shirts or comfy outfits. Since many events involve standing, some visitors wear flat shoes or trainers. If the hall tends to feel warm (especially on a full house), light clothing is a good idea. However the evenings can be cold outside, so bringing a coat (to hang in cloakroom) is normal – note there is a cloak check. Essentials to bring: your ticket, ID (if you plan to drink alcohol or need proof of age), and maybe ear plugs (if you’re sensitive to loud music). A small purse or wallet is handy for drinks/snacks at the bar. Umbrellas are discouraged inside, so plan for rain by removing them at the door. Otherwise, treat it like any night out – comfortable casual wear is perfect.
What transport options are there late at night?
Frome is a small town, but night-time transport options are limited. The last buses typically leave the Market Place around 9–10pm, so they may not serve very late shows. Your best bet after a midnight gig is a taxi or rideshare. Two local taxi companies are Green&White and Dando’s – numbers are posted on the venue’s info board. Walking to a nearby hotel is another option if you’re staying overnight locally. If you’re planning a late return, book a taxi early in the evening or check with the box office about calling one for you at show’s end. The venue itself does not run a shuttle, but the Market Yard car park remains open for any drivers that park there.
