Iconic musicians performing centre stage in a Grade 1-listed architectural and historic landmark. That’s something not to be missed, when the likes of Blondie, Crowded House and the evergreen Tom Jones appear at the Piece Hall in Halifax this summer.
The venue
Halifax’s Piece Hall is the lone surviving example of Georgian-era cloth markets, where handloom weavers would bring their woollen “pieces” to sell direct to merchants. Opened in 1779, the building had 315 separate rooms, over three levels, around a huge courtyard. Each room was just big enough for a weaver to display their wares. The large centralised mills of the industrial revolution triggered the demise of the trading hall, which was converted to a general market and then abandoned. A threat to demolish the Piece Hall, in 1971, was thankfully averted and, after a multimillion-pound restoration, it is again a bustling space of artisan arts and crafts, speciality shops and eateries.
The musicians
The Piece Hall launched its first concert series five years ago, with acts including Madness, UB40, Rag’n’Bone Man and Sting performing in the courtyard, drawing appreciative crowds and cementing the site as a bonafide music arena. This summer promises more iconic sounds, with Blondie opening on June 7. Sheryl Crow, Crowded House, Grace Jones, Bryan Adams and others round out the month, with Rick Astley and Tom Jones leading a July line-up, and Noel Gallagher, Korn, McFly and PJ Harvey featuring in the August list. A full calendar and booking details can be found at the Piece Hall website.
Where to stay
The Manor House, a luxury boutique hotel in a renovated Georgian manor, is an ideal spot to spend a night or two nearby. Set in the heart of Lindley, a charming suburban village within the city of Huddersfield, the Manor House is just an 18-minute drive from The Piece Hall. With 11 individually designed rooms, each with a distinct personality, you can relax before and after the concert. Or take advantage of the central location to explore more of West Yorkshire’s rich arts and culture scene. Book a Manor House room online by today or phone 01484 504000.
