Open House Festival 2026

Step behind the hoarding and discover a side of Stratford few people get to see. Sitting on the edge of the Olympic Park, The LightHouse & Gardens is a unique meanwhile space that has transformed an unused site into a flourishing community hub. Run by local people, it shows how vacant land can become a place where nature, wellbeing and community come together while awaiting long-term redevelopment.

Home to The LightHouse & Community Gardens, Community Sauna CIC and Stratford Gateway Construction Skills Centre, the site is full of life. Wander through the gardens and you’ll discover food-growing planters cared for by local residents, alongside a beautiful, fully wheelchair-accessible pop-up sauna and cold plunge run by Community Sauna CIC.

Stratford Gateway also plays an important social role, working with people leaving the prison system to provide practical skills, qualifications and pathways into employment.

Join Hadley Property Group and the organisations based on site for a guided tour, followed by a talk exploring the site’s story and future. You’ll hear how this meanwhile use has helped shape the vision for IQL North, a newly approved mixed-use neighbourhood that will deliver new homes, workplaces, public spaces and community facilities as part of Stratford’s next chapter.

The tour will explore the balance between temporary use and permanent development, highlighting the role of placemaking, sustainability and community engagement in shaping inclusive neighbourhoods. Whether you’re interested in architecture, urban regeneration, community-led initiatives or simply curious to experience a different side of Stratford, this is an opportunity to discover how an unused site has become a thriving place for community, wellbeing and nature.

Why not make the most of your visit by booking a session at Community Sauna CIC? (Sauna bookings must be made in advance). There will also be a Harvest Celebration in the gardens, with a range of FREE family-friendly activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Talk & Tour
Time: 2:30–3:30pm and 4:30–5:30pm

Booking: Free, but advance booking is required via the Open House Festival

Harvest Celebrations –  in the Gardens
The gardens will be open to everyone from 1:00–5:30pm, with activities celebrating the harvest season. No booking is required to visit the gardens.

We look forward to welcoming you!