Stretford Public Hall

Stretford Public Hall is an impressive historic building but it’s so much more than some pretty architecture. Once a gift to the people of Stretford from John and Enriqueta Rylands (of John Rylands Library fame) who lived in nearby Longford Hall, it’s back as a community asset. Full circle.

It was Stretford’s first public library, then a children’s theatre – it still holds children’s theatre sessions on a Thursday evening – then some council offices (yawn) before it was left to go to rack and ruin. Fast-forward to now and, through the hard work of volunteers who bought shares in the project, it’s now an amazing civic joy.

Stretford Public Hall is an event space holding meetings, kid’s birthday parties and weddings (there are some lovely rooms). It’s also the spiritual home of Stretfest. There are co-working spaces and art studios but because it’s all so lovely, there are waiting lists for these so get in the queue if you’re interested.

It’s not a money-making venture – every penny goes towards the upkeep. It’s  one of Trafford’s community hubs offering citizen’s advice sessions, foodbank referrals and housing and homelessness prevention information.

With everything from Rock Against Racism gigs, a running club, singing together sessions, free soup and a warm space on Tuesdays, parent and baby yoga  and chairobics, it’s the coolest community centre I know.