Welcome to The Zone – an award-winning youth space for 11–18s
Popping up in Gainsborough Market Place, August 2026!
Chill, create, be you.
There’s something for everyone at The Zone. And the best bit? It’s all FREE! From chilled hangouts and high-energy workshops with pro artists to gaming, cosy book corners, live shows and full-on summer parties – it’s your call what you do.
Ready to own your summer? Then drop in for free activities, giveaways and a welcoming vibe – all shaped by the ideas of young people like you from across Gainsborough.
The Zone is your place to chill, create, and be yourself this summer.
#GetInTheZone
Location
Gainsborough Market Place
DN21 2EU
Opening Times
Wednesday 19th August: 11:00-17:00
Thursday 20th August: 11:00-17:00
Friday 21st August: 11:00-17:00
Saturday 22nd August: 11:00-17:00
Age 11-18? Then drop in for FREE within these times to chill or join our activities!
Get In The Zone
Anyone aged 11-18 can come and chill in The Zone—but if you want to join in our FREE activities, we’ll need a Parent or Carer to submit a Registration Form first!
Either send your young person along to The Zone, and we can send you the forms when they arrive, or click this button and do them right now!
Once you submit the form, your young person will be added to our system so they can check into The Zone for FREE whenever we're open! No need to book, just turn up!
The Zone is a drop-in facility for young people who already access public spaces, like parks or high streets, independently and without supervision. We aim to provide a positive place for them to go when they are out and about. While our activities are supervised, The Zone will be set up in open public spaces, meaning participants can come and go as they choose.
The Zone staff are DBS checked and trained in Safeguarding and First Aid. This project is delivered by Zest - a Registered Charity and National Portfolio Organisation with Arts Council England. You can find out more about us here.
Take a look
Photography: Phil Crow & Beki Doig
What's Happening
Use the toggles below to see what’s happening at The Zone!
Anyone aged 11-18 can come and just chill in The Zone, but a Registration Form must be completed before joining any organised activities. You can do the Registration now or we can send them to Parents and Carers when your young person arrives. There’s no need to book - just turn up!
The Zone is your place to chill with your friends, create alongside artists, and be yourself—all for FREE! You can expect a welcoming vibe with no pressure to get involved or do any of the activities. You be you.
This programme is weather-dependent and subject to change.
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Check back here soon!
Credits
The Zone has been developed by Zest x AirClad
For Zest
PARTICIPATION COORDINATOR
Jack Wilkin
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Adam Pownall
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Toby Ealden
PRODUCER
Beki Doig
PROJECT PRODUCER
Eve Herrick
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Lindley Productions
INTERIOR CONSTRUCTION
StageLinc
BRAND & GRAPHIC DESIGN
Fabric.
YOUTH ARTS WORKERS
Caley Starbuck
Emma Chippendale
Eve Herrick
Harriet Shonfeld
Joanna Knight
Katie Miller
Lachlan Madin
Lauren Williams
Oliver Neary
Rachael Phillips
Tinashe Chipawe
For AirClad
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Nick Crosbie
PROJECT MANAGERS
Nick Halbert
Emma Peareth
DESIGNERS
James Bristow
Julia Bugajska
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Sam Clemance
GENERAL MANAGER
Kerry Campbell
