Heritage open day

Discover the history of Stretford Public Hall at our free heritage open day!

Saturday 12th of September from 1pm to 5pm.

We look forward to welcoming visitors to Stretford Public Hall – commissioned by philanthropists John and Enriqueta Rylands. Stretford Public Hall officially opened on 13 September 1879.

Since 2015, it has been a community-owned venue, run by staff and volunteers for the benefit of the local community. Come and learn about the history of this impressive neo-Gothic, Grade II listed building and the people and events that helped to shape it through the years.

Entry is free and visitors will have the chance to tour parts of the building that are not usually open to the public, such as the hall’s clock tower and the vast basement.

Guest speakers will include Dr Elizabeth Gow, Curator and Archivist at John Rylands Library. Younger visitors will be able to try out a variety of craft activities during the afternoon. Refreshments and snacks will be available at our bar and café.

In September 2029 the hall will be 150 years old and we are planning a special celebration. As part of that we need your help! We are asking people to tell us your memories of the hall and we are hoping to collect any photographs of past events held at the hall, or other material, which will help us to tell its story. If you think you can help us gather stories and materials, please either contact us by email at friends@stretfordpubllichall or phone 0161 989 1689, or simply drop into the hall and talk to us.