Sir Titus Salt admired 15th century Italian architecture, so chose that style when commissioning ‘a centre for recreation, culture and learning’ for local people. The building now known as Victoria Hall was designed by architects Lockwood and Mawson, and its doors first opened in 1871. A reception marking its150th anniversary was held in 2022 to thank all the people whose work helps to keep the doors open.
We use the fabulous main hall as a gathering and social space through the day and for our Showcase Friday night and our Gala show Saturday night. There are several other rooms used for functions and society gatherings in the past which are our dance spaces. Salt provided recreational spaces for his workers – including a gym in the basement of Victoria hall – also one of our dance spaces. It is great to be using such a historic place and bringing more diversity to its halls.
THE VILLAGE
Saltaire is named for philanthropist Sir Titus Salt and the River Aire, which flows between the village and Roberts Park. Salt had the village built in the1850s as housing for workers in his enormous new textile mill (still known as Salts Mill). This was a revolutionary development at a time when nearby cities of Bradford, Leeds and Manchester had people crammed into slums. His model village became a landmark across the world, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Below: accommodation suggestions – and links that may be useful:
The Abbey Lodge Hotel
Bracken Hall House
Airbnb
Travel Lodge, Shipley – a 15 minute walk from the venue
Booking.com
Bankfield Hotel, Cottingley (short drive away)