Members of the Saltaire History Club presented talks on Salt and Saltaire, and the Saltaire Collection shared items illustrating the architecture and planning that underpinned the village’s built heritage and Victoria Hall’s historical role in the community.

Throughout the day, attendees were able to enjoy the historic Wurlitzer cinema organ, watched live ballet displays by Saltaire Swans, engaged with Ascendance to discover how creativity and movement support health and wellbeing, and learned about the local community orchard project from Veg on the Edge. A special slide-show ran throughout the event, featuring users’ favourite images of Victoria Hall alongside details of its history and local significance.

Visitors were able to relax with tea or coffee in the Main Hall and meet Salt Foundation trustees, who are keen to canvas thoughts on Victoria Hall’s past, present, and future.

Victoria Hall is an important and vibrant hub, engaging the community with a wide range of classes and activities for all ages and interests. Attendees had the opportunity to discover regular offerings such as dance, yoga, tai chi, arts and crafts, fitness sessions, music groups, and community events – truly something for everyone.

This event was part of Heritage Open Days, England’s largest festival of history and culture, and is presented by an organisation involved in Bradford 2025’s Elevate programme, which aims to strengthen, sustain and increase the agility of Bradford’s heritage sector.