As part of our series featuring venues involved in Independent Venue Week (Jan 23-29), Sheggs is covering a bunch of the Yorkshire locations…
Name: Arden Road Social Club
Address: Arden Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 3AG
Website: www.ardenroadsocial.co.uk
Telephone number: 01422 362349
Date Founded: 1915 (ish)
Capacity: 250
Brief History: Arden Road Social Club began its life as an indoor roller skating rink before turning into a working men’s club; as many of our Yorkshire independent venues did. The club up until 5 years ago was seeing a declining and ageing membership until local not-for-profit promoters The Doghouse moved in, helping raise the money to turn the club into the live venue it is today.
Personal Experience: Arden Road Social Club as a live venue is one of the newer venues on the list and one I have not actually frequented. However, I have played and been involved with the promoters The Doghouse who made this magic transformation happen. Previously promoting at such places as The Royal Oak in Halifax and The Puzzle Hall Inn in Sowerby Bridge, the team have worked endlessly to bring a good live music scene back to Halifax and they are almost single handedly responsible for this. From putting on Low in Halifax Minister to promoting the best of local talent these guys make everyone feel welcome and their professionalism is of the highest standards. Still one of the best promoting teams I have had the pleasure to be involved with. This has been brought alive for the future at their new home in Arden Road.
Notable Acts Played Here: The Wave Pictures, The Lovely Eggs, Dr Feelgood, Allusondrugs
Highlights Coming Up: The Nightingales, Feb 18th