You will be hard-pressed to find a more special venue in London; Central Hall Westminster is a Grade-II listed building that’s played host to some historic events, including the first UN public address back in 1946 and the BBC’s annual New Year’s Eve concert. The multi-purpose venue, which has a capacity of more than 2000 people, houses various attractions, including an art gallery to a restaurant. It’s also one of London’s special Candlelight venues and is bathed in the glow of thousands of flickering candles for live-music performances.
What’s more, Central Hall is within walking distance of three Tube stations—Westminster station, St James’ Park station, and Victoria station—making it easier for you to arrive at this unique venue in London. And even easier to immerse yourself in the familiar sounds of famous film scores and more.
Facts, Curiosities and Interesting Things about Central Hall Westminster
1. There are some fascinating features to be discovered here
The Great Hall at this spectacular venue is home to the largest European domed ceiling of its kind and the impressive grand organ is made up of 4,731 pipes (let’s not forget to mention that it was mastered by Andrew Lloyd Webber’s father).
2. Some noteworthy figures have graced its halls
Central Hall Westminster has been a public meeting place since 1912, and has welcomed figures including Mahatma Gandhi, Winnie Mandela, and Mikhail Gorbachev through its doors – isn’t it time you paid a visit here?
3. Central Hall Westminster is a charitable endeavour
All of the profits gathered from hosting more than 800 events annually, between concerts and conferences, are put towards improving the building and raising funds for charitable works all around the world.
Candlelight concerts at Central Hall Westminster
Cinemagoers will be delighted to read that the Candlelight series celebrates Hans Zimmer’s best works and more. From modern-day icons like Coldplay to timeless composers, such as Joe Hisaishi and Ludovico Einaudi these tributes cover a wide range of genres. Hear some of your favourite songs at enchanting candlelit concerts which will be illuminating Central Hall Westminster. Solo pianists, string quartets and more talented musicians will be dazzling audiences inside one of London’s most magnificent landmarks.
What else can you do at Central Hall Westminster?
As well as acting as a leading London venue, Central Hall Westminster attracts plenty of visitors and organises an array of public events. Tourists and locals can enjoy a guided tour of the stunning landmark and grab some food and refreshments at Wesley’s Café.
There are also regular prayer sessions held at Methodist Central Hall, a premises shared by Central Hall Westminster. Keep an eye on upcoming public events as past events have included an evening with Tom Hanks and a lively debate featuring Russell Brand and more on the Censorship Industrial Complex.
In terms of making plans for an evening out, it doesn’t get much better than sitting back in a historic landmark bathed in the glow of candlelight and being serenaded by a talented string quartet. And, while London is filled with numerous breathtaking buildings, it is a real treat to sit inside Central Hall Westminster listening to awe-inspiring live music.
Candlelight concerts have been met by countless 5-star reviews, and guests have called it “a creative, enchanting, and new concert experience” and that “the performers were fantastic!” Candlelight is an experience unlike any other, and you won’t want to miss out. Each will feature two performances – one at 6:30pm, and a late show at 9:00pm – so you can fit these magical music moments neatly into a night out.