Music Group Moves To St Helen’s Church

A popular Abingdon music organisation is set to move venues as renovation work begins on the town’s historic Abbey Buildings.

From 7 May 2026, Music At The Unicorn (MATU) will relocate from the Unicorn Theatre to St Helen’s Church in Abingdon. The move comes as essential conservation work is planned to protect the 800-year-old Abbey Buildings and modernise its facilities.

Abingdon Abbey Buildings Trust President Bryan Brown said: “We plan to keep the community up to date with our progress. We wish all our users well in their chosen alternatives to the Abbey Buildings and look forward to welcoming them back when the work is done. Well done to MUSIC AT THE UNICORN in continuing their great music shows in the stunning St Helen’s Church”.

MATU, a volunteer-run not-for-profit organisation, hosts live performances from musicians, singers and songwriters while supporting emerging local talent.

The group identified St Helen’s Church as a suitable temporary venue due to its central location, capacity and acoustics. The church, which dates back to the 10th century, is one of the widest in the country.

Steve Thomas from St Helen’s Church said: “We are pleased that St Helen’s Church is able to provide a venue for the continuation of MATU gigs during 2026 and onwards. We are excited to welcome a wide range of new performers and audiences to this historic space”.

Duncan Chappell of MATU added: “We are looking forward to seeing our artists entertaining our audiences in another unique space. The grandeur of St Helen’s Church has to be seen, (and heard), to be believed!”

Renovation work is expected to begin later this year, with completion anticipated in 2028. MATU plans to continue its programme at the church in the meantime.