WELCOME
Knarsdale with Kirkhaugh (Cairns) Community Hall is a well-resourced, comfortable, stylish and spacious multi-purpose venue. It boasts:
- a large well-appointed main hall, for sporting and social occasions;
- a modern, well-equipped kitchen;
- a committee/meeting room;
- toilet facilities;
- a car park;
all designed for inclusive access.
Location and local amenities
The Community Hall (1 mile north of Slaggyford) is situated along the A689, between Haltwhistle (the Centre of Britain) and Alston (highest Market Town in England). It is within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and where historic interest abounds! The Hall sits parallel to the stunning river South Tyne within a picturesque, rural farming community. Local amenities include a Church and local Inn within walking distance; other accommodation options close by, and a café/farm shop halfway between Slaggyford and Alston. The South Tyne Railway that runs between Slaggyford and Alston is 5 minutes away by car. (Please refer to the links on the ‘Facilities’ tab, then navigate to ‘Nearby Services’.)
Tourism
The South Tyne Valley is a major tourist attraction for numerous trails including the Pennine Way, Maiden’s Way, South Tyne Trail and Isaac Holden’s Tea Trail. The influence of the Romans is nearby at Epiacum, which is said to be one of the best-preserved Roman forts in Europe, albeit still to be excavated. This and the industrial activity of the 18th and 19th Centuries have made the area a constant attraction for archaeologists and historians. From the abundant evidence of the Romans to the Reivers of the 14th -17th Centuries and the railway building of the 1850’s, the area has much to offer.
The History of the Community Hall Until 2009 the community was served by the WI ‘green hut’. This had been built out of corrugated iron and timber, back in 1931, when the Women’s Institute raised £400 for its construction. It served the community well and was the focal point of the Parish for social and sporting events. However, time took its toll and in the late 1990s it became clear that a replacement was needed, as the hall no longer complied with modern requirements and legislation.
The ladies of the WI agreed that the only viable way forward was for them to donate the hall site to the Community, with agreement of the family trusts that had originally provided the land. A charitable trust was formed, charged with raising money to build a new hall for the benefit of all.
The dedicated committee, with the support of the community worked hard and were rewarded with a Big Lottery Fund Grant in 2009. This, along with monies raised by local residents, national and local charities and local authorities allowed the project to progress.
The new hall design was based on input from the community – where ideas were developed into practical plans. As well as the amazing layout and resources, the hall has been insulated to a very high standard and air source heat pumps are installed, being the most appropriate eco-friendly form of heating in this location.
To date, the Hall continues to provide a focal point for 'Community' in a spectacular landscape. Trustees and committee members warmly invite you to experience this wonderful facility and all it has to offer.