Whalley Village Hall has been at the heart of village life since 1995.
We provide a welcoming community space for local people, groups and organisations – from regular clubs and activities to meetings, celebrations and special occasions.
The hall exists for the benefit of the people of Whalley and the surrounding neighbourhood, and we’re proud to continue that tradition today.
Our purpose
Whalley Village Hall exists for the benefit of the inhabitants of Whalley and neighbourhood by associating with voluntary and other organisations, in a common effort to advance education, social welfare and recreation and with the object of improving the condition of life for local people.
In simple terms, we’re here to provide a space where our community can meet, connect, learn, celebrate and enjoy village life.
A little bit of history
The story of Whalley Village Hall began in 1990, when local businesswoman Mrs Austin approached Cllr Eric Ronnan with a generous offer: a building that could be given to the village and developed as a village hall.
A new committee was formed, and a local architect was appointed to prepare plans. Under the chairmanship of Mr E. Ronnan, the committee raised £40,000 and secured a further £120,000 in grants from various sources.
The work was completed in two stages and the hall officially opened on 25 October 1995.
Sadly, Mrs Austin died before the project was completed, but her generosity and vision remain part of the hall’s story. A plaque in her memory can be found in the entrance hall.
Whalley – past and present
Whalley is a historic village in the heart of the Ribble Valley, situated on the banks of the River Calder and overlooked by the wooded Nab.
Its history stretches back many centuries. Archaeological evidence points to Iron Age occupation and a Roman presence, while the village church has stood here for more than 1,400 years. The remains of Whalley Abbey, founded in the early 14th century, are another important part of the village’s heritage.
The village grew as a centre for local trade and services, and many of its older buildings still reflect that history, from former farmhouses and timber-framed buildings to cottages, inns and other historic properties.
Today, Whalley remains a thriving village, with local shops, businesses, schools, community organisations and a busy programme of activities. It is well connected to neighbouring towns and cities by road, rail and bus, while its position in the Ribble Valley provides easy access to the surrounding countryside.
It’s this combination of history, community and everyday village life that makes Whalley such a special place to call home.
And the Village Hall is one small part of that story.
Your Village Hall today
More than 30 years after it first opened, the hall continues to provide a space for the local community.
Our facilities include a main hall, a smaller meeting room and an upstairs room, making the building suitable for everything from regular community activities and meetings to private celebrations and events.
The hall belongs to the community, and its future depends on people continuing to use it, support it and help shape what comes next.
Get involved
Like many community organisations, Whalley Village Hall relies on volunteers.
We’re always pleased to hear from people who would like to get involved – whether that means joining the committee, helping with a particular project or simply lending a hand when needed.
If you’d like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you.