Open since 1930, this stately red-brick building was purpose built as the home of the English Folkdance and Song Society (and is named after its founder), and plays host to a musical selection inspired by their mission to 'preserve and promote English folk dances in their traditional forms. As a result, the roster is packed with barn dances, ceilidhs, traditional folk luminaries and the occasional ukulele shenanigan. More unexpected acts like Goldfrapp and Sigur Rós have played here in recent years too, but they're very much the exception to the cultural heritage-based bill.
I've only visited for the Ceilidh Club but I absolutely love it. The venue is great, with a nice relaxed bar and cafe downstairs - nicely priced drinks and a good selection. The Ceilidh Club is amazing fun, really really sweaty and you need your wits about you to get the steps right - but all the spinning around is excellent. Highly recommended!
Great location, with small intimate halls and a big hall with fabulous acoustics. The range of music is great, and there is a lovely bar in the basement. A great night out with a sense of tradition at the same time
A fantastic venue with friendly staff, excellent events for individuals and groups including fantastic outreach work, a great cafe and very interesting exhibitions. Plus, I recently attended a family barn dance and great fun. My teenage niece had really enjoyed folk music week long course over half term and she told me she loved it.
Keep up the good work!
perks!
