About 98 Wallis Rd
98 Wallis Road is best known as the location of The Yard – a prominent arts venue in Hackney Wick, East London. The Yard is a converted warehouse theatre and late-night music club. It opened in 2011 as a volunteer-driven pop-up theatre offering “cheap and palatable theatrical productions” in a gritty café-bar setting . In a few weeks it was built out of reclaimed materials from the Olympic Park . What began as a short-term experiment became a permanent fixture in London’s cultural scene . The interior retains its industrial character – a wide concrete stage and 4-metre ceilings give it an old-warehouse vibe . With about 110 seats (plus standing room), the venue feels intimate . Over the past decade it has gained a reputation as a creative hub in Hackney Wick, earning Arts Council support and helping launch artists like Michaela Coel and Ncuti Gatwa . The Yard’s programme spans fringe theatre and dance productions by day and energetic club nights by night, making it a unique crossroads of performance and nightlife.
Events and Programming
The Yard’s calendar is very diverse. By day and early evening you’ll find theatre productions, comedy shows, new writing and dance pieces on the concrete stage. Past shows have ranged from adaptations of classics to bold new works – for example, the venue hosted a run of The Flea (Oct–Dec 2023) and a revival of Tennessee Williams’ Glass Menagerie . It also runs its own festivals (like the Yard’s “NOW” new writing festival ) and family/youth workshops. In contrast, late nights see The Yard transform into a dance club: the auditorium clears its seats and becomes a dancefloor. Regular nightlife bookings include drum’n’bass and jungle raves (e.g. underground nights like “Vital Fest” and themed queer parties) as well as house and electronica. A December event called Vital Fest is typical – billed as “the epicentre of drum and bass” held at The Yard for the festive season . The Yard also hosts annual club-brand events (Knickerbocker’s ninja-tune dance parties, Wiggy nights and seasonal celebrations). In short, the venue alternates between theatre/performance shows (with tickets often in the £10–£20 range) and late-night paid entries (often £5–£15 in advance for club nights). Events are frequent – often multiple each week – so visitors will almost always find something happening on site.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for shows at 98 Wallis Road are sold through The Yard’s official channels. The venue’s website and box-office allow you to book in advance. Keep an eye on the venue’s social media and newsletter for on-sale announcements, as popular events often sell out. A limited number of tickets may be held for door sales, but this is not guaranteed. For box-office queries, The Yard directs customers to contact its ticket office (via email) . Prices depend on the lineup: smaller theatre or comedy shows can be quite affordable (often £10–£15), whereas full-price theatre productions or all-night club events may run £20 or more. Early-bird or discounted tickets for students/seniors may also be available. Booking in advance is wise for big-name events like New Year’s parties or major premieres. At busy shows you should arrive in time to scan your ticket (printed or on a phone) at the door. For club nights, expect an ID check for proof of age (18+) at entry. No third-party ticket sites are needed – buy directly from the venue to avoid scams.
Seating and Layout
Inside, 98 Wallis Road has a simple industrial layout. The main performance space (the theatre) is a large rectangular hall with seating on a gently raked floor plus a small rear gallery. In total the theatre holds about 110 seats : roughly 98 on the main floor and 12 in the balcony. The unadorned concrete stage runs along one end; above it the roof soars over 4 metres high . For seated shows, the best views are toward the centre of the rake (front-row centre is ideal for an unobstructed view). The small balcony offers extra seating, but some reviewers recommend the main floor for the fullest experience. For dance or music events, most fixed seating is removed to open up a general-admission standing floor. Ambience varies accordingly: in theatre mode the audience sits facing the stage; in club mode the DJs often set up on the stage platform and the crowd stands below. Acoustic considerations: the warehouse walls can be lively, so house sound systems are tuned for clarity and bass under the high ceiling. In party mode, it’s loud – sitting or standing further from the speakers (on the floor level) can ease the volume if you need a break. Near the back by the bar may be quieter. There is no VIP or reserved area: all spaces are equally accessible. (A bench or seating may sometimes be placed near the front wall for older guests in theatre events.) The Yard’s compact size means even “back row” seats are relatively close to the action, one reason many fans love its intimacy.
Getting There and Parking
98 Wallis Road is in Queen’s Yard, Hackney Wick (London E9 5LN). The closest station is Hackney Wick Overground , about a 1-2 minute walk away – easily reached on the Overground line via Stratford (Jubilee, Elizabeth and Central Tube lines) or Whitechapel (Hammersmith & City/ District). Buses also serve the area. Routes like the 26, 276, 388 and D8 run to nearby stops (e.g. on White Post Lane) giving additional links to other parts of Hackney and beyond. If coming by car, there is no dedicated private car park for the venue. Instead, street parking is used: metered bays can be found on White Post Lane, Rothbury Road and adjacent streets. (Importantly, pay-and-display charges do not apply in the evening – parking is free after around 7:30pm .) Expect nearby streets to fill up quickly when big events are on. Rideshare drop-off is easiest on nearby White Post Lane (not in the narrow Queen’s Yard itself). For cycling, there are some Lockrn racks in the area and it’s a short ride from the Lea River towpath. As always in London, plan extra travel time for rush hour or weekends; Hackney Wick can get busy with traffic.
Inside the Venue
On arriving at 98 Wallis Rd, you’ll pass through a simple foyer into the large main hall. Staff at the door will check tickets and, if it’s a late-night event, usually ID for 18+ on Fridays and Saturdays. Expect a casual atmosphere – the concrete walls and exposed interior give it a punk/warehouse feel. Bag checks are routine (no weapons or outside drinks allowed). Once inside, the venue is single-level apart from the balcony. There’s minimal queueing space, so arriving a few minutes early can avoid bottlenecks, especially before popular club nights. In terms of facilities, The Yard has a bar and kitchen area offset from the stage. As per the venue details, the bar area seats about 80 people and can accommodate about 250 standing . Drinks are reasonably priced for London pub standards (beer, wine, soft drinks, and often cocktails), and there are sometimes snacks or a small food menu (like pizza or street-food style bites) when events coincide. The Yard has one main lounge/bar room and a few high tables scattered on the floor. There is no formal coat check – jackets can be draped on available seats or along walls, but on very busy nights space is limited. Restrooms (toilets) are simple but clean; one of the toilets is fully accessible and the venue has ramps to ensure step-free access inside . Mobile reception is fair (a few steps back from speakers helps calls), but public Wi-Fi isn’t typically offered. If you’re at a theatre show, you’ll be asked to take your seat at the advertised start time – don’t expect late admittance once lights go down. For club nights, music usually starts around 10pm, and the party can run until the early hours (the Yard is licensed until 3am on Fridays/Saturdays) . Accessibility aids like hearing loops are not advertised, but staff are used to accommodating wheelchairs (since there’s level access). Overall, The Yard’s vibe is lively and unpretentious. Expect dimmed theatrical lighting or vivid club lighting depending on the show, lots of standing room area, and a friendly crowd. Dress is entirely casual – come comfortable (and perhaps with warm layers if you plan to step outside during a late-night event).
Nearby Amenities
Queen’s Yard (where 98 Wallis Rd sits) is in a creative quarter with several casual eateries and bars close by. For pre-show dining or post-show drinks, you’ll find hip cafés, small restaurants and craft beer pubs within a 5–10 minute walk. For example, Strange Brew on nearby Regent’s Canal is a popular all-day cafe (coffee, toasties, cakes). The White Post pub/café is almost next door on the canal and offers meals and drinks. A few minutes west on White Post Lane is Mother , a modern brewery/bar with good food and a large beer list. If you have more time, the multi-stall Netil Square Market (5–8 min walk) offers street food vendors (tacos, pizzas, vegan dishes, desserts) in a communal seating area. For a more formal meal, the wider Hackney Wick area has several international bistros, pizza and burger joints, and even some East Village hotels with restaurants. On White Post Lane and the main Hackney Wick Road you’ll find grab-and-go options and a couple of corner shops if you need snacks or basics. Late-night after a show, buses can still be caught on White Post Lane (some run until midnight) or you may walk (20–30 min) or take a short tube/bus to Stratford or Hackney Central for more transport links. If staying overnight, note that few inns are right next door; most visitors use East London hotels in Stratford or Shoreditch (10–15 min overground ride away) or B&Bs in Hackney central. In short, you won’t be stuck for food or drink – plenty of trendy Hackney Wick spots lie within easy walking distance of 98 Wallis Rd.
What Makes This Venue Special
98 Wallis Road stands out for its blend of gritty authenticity, community spirit and bold programming. It was built on a shoestring budget and reclaimed materials, reflecting a DIY ethos unusual in London theatre . From the outset it focused on breaking down barriers – providing free rehearsal space to artists and affordable productions – so it quickly became a model of grassroots theatre . Audiences and critics praise the Yard for “glimmering with new life” in Hackney Wick . Its architecture is humble but distinctive: rough wooden seating, a raw concrete stage and minimal décor give it an industrial-chic aesthetic that many find appealing. Equally notable is The Yard’s dual identity: by day it champions cutting-edge theatre and youth outreach, and by night it throws unforgettable underground dance parties. This crossover is rare – few venues double as both an Off-West-End theatre and a late-night club. The Yard has been credited with reinvigorating the creative scene in East London, even influencing local development plans. For example the major Queen’s Yard redevelopment explicitly includes a new theatre space for The Yard . Historical milestones add to its lore: it launched as a “three-month pop-up” and ended up securing Arts Council funding and becoming a National Portfolio Organisation by 2017 . All told, 98 Wallis Road is special because it feels simultaneously intimate and adventurous. Whether it was staging bold new plays or packing out midnight-positive drum’n’bass nights (like the annual Vital Fest) , it consistently champions diverse talent. Both artists and audiences love it for its friendly, inclusive atmosphere and for proving that a scrappy brick building can have a massive cultural impact in Hackney Wick and beyond.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Yard is fully wheelchair accessible, with level entry from the street and an accessible toilet . If you need help, the staff are generally accommodating. Plan to arrive early: doors usually open 30 minutes before shows (even earlier for busy club nights) and people often queue in good time. Bears and bag checks are routine – only small bags are practical. Dress casually (and in layers if it’s cold outside); there is no formal dress code. If you’re sensitive to noise, consider bringing earplugs: club events feature loud bass and live shows retain a fair volume. Cameras and video recording are typically not allowed during performances (be discrete and respectful if snapping the crowd). Age rules: daytime theatre shows often welcome all ages (check parental guidelines), but evening club events are 18+ (with ID checks). Phones: signal can be patchy indoors, so arrange meet-ups ahead or use the bar area for better coverage. If you get turned away or have an issue, contact the box office via The Yard’s website. Common mistakes: don’t assume food will be served at every event (the bar offers light fare, but complex meals are off-site), and don’t try to re-enter after leaving – once inside you usually cannot go out and come back in. Also, avoid rushing the bar at intermission – they can get busy. Tips: for a relaxed experience, consider arriving 15–20 minutes early to find good standing spots or seats. Check the venue’s social media or website for any special guidelines on the night you attend (e.g. themed parties sometimes have costume suggestions). Finally, respect the venue’s vibe: The Yard prides itself on being friendly and inclusive, so a positive attitude goes a long way in enhancing everyone’s night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 98 Wallis Road the address of The Yard Theatre?
Yes. 98 Wallis Road (London E9 5LN) is the street address of The Yard Theatre in Hackney Wick. Locals often just call it “The Yard.” The Yard is a converted warehouse complex at Queen’s Yard, and it opened as a theatre/club in 2011 .
What sort of events and performances happen at 98 Wallis Road?
The Yard offers a mix of theatre, dance and music. In daytime and evenings you’ll see plays, new writing, comedy and dance shows on the small stage. After dark it becomes a club venue hosting DJs and themed nightlife (drum–bass raves, LGBTQ+ parties, etc.). For example, the venue hosts festivals like its drum’n’bass “Vital Fest” and the Yard’s own theatrical showcase “NOW” .
How do I buy tickets and what are the prices?
Tickets can be purchased online through The Yard’s official website or at the box office in person (if available). Pricing varies greatly by event: small productions might charge around £10–£15, whereas major shows or club nights (especially with renowned DJs) can go to £20 or more. Concessions and early-bird discounts may apply. Since popular events can sell out, booking in advance is recommended.
What is the seating and standing capacity of the venue?
The Yard is a small venue: the main theatre holds about 110 seated capacity (roughly 98 seats on the main sloped floor plus 12 in the balcony). For music/dance events, seats are largely removed and it becomes general admission – up to around 250 people can be on the floor by the bar . There are no fixed VIP areas – it’s all one accessible space.
Is 98 Wallis Road wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Yard offers step-free access throughout the public spaces. There is ramp/lift access to the performance hall and an accessible restroom on the ground floor . The venue’s bar and seating areas are also on one level or connected by ramps, making it fully wheelchair accessible.
What are the nearest transport links to 98 Wallis Road?
The nearest station is Hackney Wick Overground (E9) – it’s literally a 1–2 minute walk from the station exit . From there you can take services to Stratford (Jubilee/Elizabeth/Central DLR connections) or towards Highbury & Islington. Several local buses (e.g. routes 26, 276, 388) stop on White Post Lane a few minutes’ walk away. By car, metered parking is available on White Post Lane and surrounding streets (free after about 7:30pm) .
Are there parking facilities at or near the venue?
There is no private car park attached to 98 Wallis Rd. Instead, use on-street parking on nearby roads. Pay-and-display bays can be found on White Post Lane and Rothbury Road, with usual fees during daytime. Note that these bays become free after about 7:30pm . A short walk to the nearby Hackney Wick train station parking or a taxi drop-off is also possible if needed.
Is there a bar or food inside 98 Wallis Road?
Yes. The Yard has an on-site bar and kitchen area. You can buy drinks (beer, wine, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks) from the fully stocked bar . There are seats along the bar wall and some high tables. Menu items are limited – typically light snacks or pizzas when kitchens are open. Many visitors pre-eat nearby (there are cafes and street-food stalls around Hackney Wick), but it’s easy to get a drink at the venue’s bar before or during a show.
When do events typically finish and are there late-night transport options?
It varies. Theatre shows usually end by 10–11pm. Club nights often go late – for example, one Friday/Saturday night event ran until 4am , though officially the Yard’s license hours are midnight Sun–Wed, 2am on Thurs and 3am on Fri/Sat . Last Overground trains from Hackney Wick depart around midnight (later on some lines), so plan to take that or the N26 night bus from Hackney Road if staying past midnight. Taxis and rideshares can be ordered at any hour as well.
What should I bring and what is not allowed?
Bring your ticket (print or on phone) and, if attending a club-style event, a valid ID (18+ events require proof of age). Dress casually – the yard is informal. It’s smart to carry a small bag only, as there’s no large luggage space. Prohibited items include large bottles, weapons or professional camera rigs. Drinks and food from outside are not allowed. Earplugs can be handy for loud nights. There is no cloakroom, so keep personal items with you. Check the event info beforehand (some themed nights may encourage costumes, others are casual).
