We have prepared the following frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit to Summer Open Studios 2024. If you have other questions that are not answered here, please get in touch.
What is Open Studios?
Cockpit Open Studios is a 3-day event, which takes place twice a year in Summer and Winter at our two Central London locations in Bloomsbury and Deptford. During Open Studios we open our doors for visitors, offering them a rare chance to wander freely around the building and visit our makers in their studios. With over 175 makers working across 20 craft disciplines, there is a huge variety of processes and products to see.
When is Open Studios happening in 2024?
Summer Open Studios will take place in Bloomsbury from 14-16 June and in Deptford from 21-23 June 2024.
Winter Open Studios will be held in Bloomsbury from 22-24 November and in Deptford from 29 November-1 December 2024.
Will I be able to buy things?
Yes! Open Studios is a great opportunity to buy directly from makers. You’ll get to take home a piece of world-class craftsmanship while shopping sustainably and supporting independent creative businesses.
What is the price range of the items for sale?
Cockpit is home to a very broad range of makers working in variety of disciplines, materials and styles. What unites them is the quality and originality of their work. Prices range from £50 up to collectible artworks worth several thousand pounds.
Is it ok just to come and look?
Absolutely. Our makers love meeting people who are interested in their work. There is no pressure to buy, though many items are for sale.
How much do tickets cost?
General Admission tickets are £8 when purchased in advance, or £10 on the door. Concessions are £6 in advance or £8 on the door. We’ve also introduced a new £16 Weekend Pass that allows you unlimited entry to one site for an entire weekend or to 1 full day in Bloomsbury and 1 day in Deptford.
Locals can enjoy half-price entry with proof of address (WC1 in Bloomsbury and SE8 in Deptford).
Can I buy a ticket on the door?
Yes, subject to availability. We recommend booking in advance.
What are the concession categories?
Seniors (65+), students (full-time and part-time), unwaged, disabled (accompanying carer receives free entry).
Do children require a ticket?
Children aged 16 and under receive free entry, but we recommend booking a ticket just in case the event sells out.
Can I use my ticket to re-enter?
Yes, you can use your ticket to re-enter the event on the same day only. If you wish to return on another day, we suggest purchasing a Weekend Pass.
Can I bring a dog?
Yes, but the dog must be always kept on a lead and any accidents will be the responsible of the owner. Some studio holders have a ‘No dogs’ policy, please respect this; there will be a sign on the door to indicate.
Is there a café?
Yes, this year our new café partner Spring Café will be operating at both sites. At Bloomsbury, you can visit them in the Education Space on the first floor. At Deptford, they will be operating out of our new café space on the ground floor.
Is there lift access?
Yes, at Bloomsbury the lift is accessible from John’s Mews at street level. Look for the blue shutter doors, use the buzzer and a lift attendant will come down and guide you to the ticket desk. The Second Floor can also be accessed via this lift.
At Deptford, we have a self-manned lift to access floors 1 to 3.
Is there a map?
Yes, a downloadable map is included in the Studio Guides, and you can pick up a printed guide with map when you check-in.
Is there parking?
No, we do not having parking at either site. The best way to get to us is via public transport – click here for TfL Journey Planner.
At Bloomsbury, our closest stations are Holborn, Chancery Lane and Russell Square. At Deptford, our closest stations are Deptford, Deptford Bridge and Greenwich.
You can download a map of our locations here.