Goldsmid Hall

The Goldsmid Hall, Tudeley 

A number of groups currently use the Goldsmid Hall in Tudeley for their meetings. For this reason, I was asked by the Chair to represent Tonbridge u3a when the Hall Committee sought nominations for Trustees at the end of last year.

For people who do not know the Hall, it provides two possible spaces for hire. These are the main hall which can comfortably seat 80 people; and a smaller committee room suitable for groups of not more than 15 people. There is a well-equipped kitchen, and groups would only need to provide their own consumables - tea, coffee etc. There is parking for approximately 30 cars. There is an effective heating system in the main hall which responds rapidly to adjustment on the easily accessible and visible control panel. Wheelchair access is possible, using the side door. However, this does involve a moderate slope from the road up to the door. Acoustics in the main hall can sometimes be an issue if a speaker has a relatively quiet delivery style. However, the Hall has its own sound system which can be used to good effect. There are no audio-visual facilities, but it is possible to set up Tonbridge u3a’s own equipment, including projector, screen and laptop. 

The Hall Committee has recently needed to charge a slightly increased rental, but this is still competitive in relation to other similar facilities available locally. The daytime cost per hour of hiring the main hall is £14, rising to £17 per hour in the evenings. The rate for the meeting room is £12 per hour for both daytime end evening bookings. 

I would also be happy to answer any questions about the Hall and its suitability for the needs of different groups. 

Patrick Hart, February 2025 (Contact details in your February Journal)