History of St Johns Hall
The building was designed by John Matthews and completed in 1867. St Johns Hall was built using granite from the nearby Lamorna quarry. It is home to Penzance Town’s charter of 1614 which created Penzance as a self-governing town. The building was originally occupied by
- the Borough Council
- Police
- and Royal Geological Society of Cornwall.
Over the years the listed building has been used as a magistrate’s court, police cells and a public dance hall.
St Johns Hall is now home to the town’s Library and Information Service, and the Registration Office. It includes Royal Geological Society artefacts and a Fine Arts collection. The collection is the most significant of its kind in a public library anywhere in the region.
The venue
St Johns Hall is an imposing Grade II listed building set in the heart of Penzance. It offers a multi-purpose events and conference venue which hosts many events each year.
The main hall is an impressive space with an area 297 sq.m. The hall has plenty of natural light but can be darkened if required. It is the perfect venue for a variety of events such as
- large meetings
- exhibitions
- celebrations and wedding receptions
Facilities
The main hall offers a flexible space. There is a stage and tiered seating which can accommodate an audience of up to 212 people. There is a total seated area of 286 or up to 500 standing.
We have a premise licence permitting the consumption and sale of alcohol. Please let us know when enquiring or booking if alcohol will be served at your event.
We have audio and video equipment available for you to use during your event. We make every effort to check the equipment is working before your event. Unfortunately, we are unable to support the equipment for events held during the evening or at weekends.
Kitchen facilities with fridge and dishwasher are available for use with the main hall. There is a lift to all floors with disabled toilets on every floor.
There is no free parking on-site but Penalverne pay and display car park is right next to the building. Alternative car parking is available at Harbour long stay car park
St Johns Hall - a venue to inspire
Location
St John’s Hall is located on Alverton Street and is convenient for all public transport. It is on the bus route with several bus stops close by. Penzance railway station is a 10 minute walk away.
Room Hire Rates
| Days and Times | Rates |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate: 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays | £30 per hour |
| Half Day 9am to 1pm or 1pm to 5pm | £100 per half day |
| Full Day 9am to 5pm | £180 per day |
| Evening rate 5pm to 11pm | £45 per hour |
| Weekend and Bank Holiday Half Day | £175 per half day |
| Weekend and Bank Holiday Full Day | £315 per full day |
| Any function after 11pm | £100 per hour after 11pm |
| Festivals by arrangement | Please contact us |
Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel a booking please let us know as soon as possible.
| Cancellation Notice Period | Charges |
|---|---|
| A least 5 clear working days | No charge |
| 2 to 5 working days | 50% of total hire charge |
| 48 hours or less | Full charge |
How to book
For all enquiries and bookings please contact us using the following email address stjohnshallhire@cornwall.gov.uk