Rediscover the ‘People’s Palace’ St George’s Hall
Public invited to tour the refurbished Grade ll listed building
Saturday 2 March 11am – 3pm
After an extensive transformational refurbishment, St George’s Hall is throwing its doors wide open for residents of Bradford and beyond to rediscover their ‘People’s Palace.’
The Open Day on Saturday 2 March from 11am-3pm will give people the opportunity to look around the much loved building and find out about its amazing history and recent refurbishment.
Visitors can learn about the early history of the Hall in the Victorian era and discover how the building has evolved over 165 years from its time as a Classical Concert Hall, a Cinema, Rock and Pop Venue and even
an Airport Departure Lounge! Incredibly, in 1964, air travellers were invited to St George’s Hall to check in, leave baggage and relax in the lounge, before taking a coach to the airport in Yeadon.
Self-guided tours will be available on the open day, to provide information on the conservation of the venue, a chance to browse heritage displays across all four levels of the Hall, and view some historic objects found during the refurbishment.
There will be hands on family activities and a chance to dress up as some of the famous faces of St George’s Hall including leading author Charles Dickens, suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst and rock legends
David Bowie and Freddie Mercury! The newly opened ground floor café with its beautifully restored mosaic
floor will be serving refreshments, with hot food available 11am – 2pm.
The extensive refurbishment of St George’s Hall has included major works to the roof, windows, electrics and
stone work. The front-of-house areas have been increased, and seating has been upgraded to improve sight
lines and comfort, whilst ensuring the world class acoustics are unaffected.
Adam Renton, General Manager Bradford Theatres said:
“We are throwing open the doors of St George’s Hall so that everyone can discover just how special
the wonderful St George’s Hall is. This is an informal Open Day for all to enjoy. I’m sure you will
find out some truly fascinating facts!”