Leas Cliff Hall

Leas Cliff Hall stands on the Kent coast in Folkestone, overlooking the English Channel. Built in 1927, it replaced an earlier shelter from 1894 and was designed by Norwegian architect J S Dahl. The building opened with a concert by the Folkestone Municipal Orchestra attended by 1,000 people. Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, performed the official opening. After modernisation in 1981, it reopened in its present form. The venue is now managed by the Ambassador Theatre Group. The hall has hosted major acts including The Rolling Stones, T Rex, Thin Lizzy and Morrissey. Comedians such as Victoria Wood, Ken Dodd and Russell Howard have also performed there. Classical concerts featured tenor Richard Tauber five times between 1937 and 1947. The stage measures 48 feet wide and 27 feet deep. It accommodates up to 1,500 standing or 1,000 seated. Inside, visitors find the Channel Suite, Café, Coasters bar and Foyer bar. The Grand Hall seats 900 and the building presents touring shows of concerts, comedy, ballet and wrestling.