Claygate Village Hall

"For many years Claygate sadly lacked a village hall. From time to time schemes were set afoot, but these were individual efforts and failed to prosper. Then in October 1949, a new approach was made - the village as a whole, through it's various associations getting together to provide what was so badly needed, a hall that would grace our village and serve us all".
Walter Wheatley. Founder chairman of the Village Hall Association.(taken from "Claygate, Surrey" April 1953)

The Early History of Claygate Village Hall

In January 1954 land was purchased by the Village Hall Association with funds raised by local residents and societies.
Construction of the hall commenced in October 1958. By June 1959 the building
was completed. The stage and dressing rooms were added at a later date.

The hall is held in trust for the use of the residents of Claygate and the
neighbouring area and is administered by a board of trustees representing local organisations and residents.
The annual general meeting is held in May when the finances and running of the association are examined. This meeting is open to everyone, Claygate residents
are encouraged to attend and vote on issues relating to the hall.

The day to day running of the hall is financed entirely from letting income.
Grants have been received for specific projects.

Recent Developments

In the last 8 years grants from SCC and Elmbridge, plus Association funds has enabled
the trustees to refurbish all areas of the hall, including improvements to the exterior of the building. The most recent area for modernisation has been the kitchen, with the installation of a dishwasher. In addition to the Main and Small halls the stage changing room is also available as a committee room, which is proving popular for smaller meetings.

Regular bookings include the Montessori Nursery School, Chadsworth Stage School, yoga classes, pilates, pre-school activity groups (Little Kickers, Monkey Music) a mother and toddler group, folk and ballroom dancing clubs and a variety of exercise classes.

The Village Hall has hosted a number of events in recent years including The Claygate Music Festival, Claygate Dramatic Society's programme of productions, Claygate Village Association Fashion Show,
Surrey Guild of WI entertainment evening, Big Band concerts.....and much more!