Plan Your Theatre Break
Stephen Joseph Theatre (SJT) — What's On in 2026
The Headlands Hotel — Perfectly Placed for SJT Breaks & Coastal Escapes
Welcome to the SJT
The Stephen Joseph Theatre (SJT) is a Scarborough treasure — a place where stories come to life in a building steeped in history and charm. Set within the lovingly restored 1930s Odeon cinema, this independent venue is home to the world-famous theatre-in-the-round, known simply as The Round. It’s a space where audiences don’t just watch — they’re part of the performance.
The SJT is proud to be the birthplace of Sir Alan Ayckbourn’s plays—over 90 world premieres and counting. His long-standing creative home in Scarborough has shaped British theatre for generations.
Alongside it, The McCarthy offers a more traditional theatre layout and doubles as a cosy cinema, perfect for catching everything from indie gems to big-screen favourites. Whether you’re here for a play, a film, or just to soak up the atmosphere, the SJT is a reminder of how special live storytelling can be — right here by the sea.
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Staying with us? The iconic SJT is around a 20-minute walk from The Headlands Hotel, or roughly £7 by taxi if you prefer to ride. If you’re driving, there’s free parking near the theatre after 6pm, making it easy to catch an evening show. The SJT is located right opposite Scarborough’s train station, at the top of the town centre.
Eat Me @ SJT
Eat Me Café & Social is the in-house restaurant at the Stephen Joseph Theatre — a bold, flavour-packed gem that’s as much a part of the experience as the show itself.
Tucked upstairs in the beautifully restored Odeon building, Eat Me at the SJT brings an eclectic mix of British and Asian-inspired dishes, with a menu that’s as playful and inventive as the theatre’s own productions. From Japanese ramen and mac ’n’ cheese to their cult-favourite Sticky Monkey Fingers and Basketcase Chicken, it’s a place where comfort food meets creative flair.
Perfect for grabbing a bite to eat before curtain-up, Eat Me offers a warm, welcoming space that’s full of character — just like the theatre it calls home. It’s no wonder it’s been named a ‘local gem’ in The Good Food Guide five years running
Live Theatre in Scarborough
The Headlands Hotel - Modern Comfort, Vintage Charm, Scarborough Soul
Hotels Near The Stephen Joseph Theatre
