Newark: Kelham Hall re-opens under new ownership

Grade I listed Kelham Hall, which had been in administration, is set to reopen in December under new ownership and the promise of a return to former glory.

The venue will re-launch under a new name, The Renaissance at Kelham Hall.

New investment will see the hall restored to its former glory after the previous owners fell into liquidation earlier this year.

Backing has come from A Shade Greener Finance — a privately-owned commercial finance provider that offers flexible finance solutions to UK businesses.

The highly experienced management team includes local hospitality professional Rachel Bill, who between them have decades of experience in launching brands and opening high-value, established national venues.

Rachel Bill, business development manager at The Renaissance, said: “The new management team, A Shade Greener Finance and I are delighted to be able to breathe new life into this beautiful and iconic building, as we work together to restore it to its place within the heart of the community.

"As a local resident myself, I fully appreciate the love and excitement that the community have for the venue, and its grounds, and we look forward to reopening this festive season with our Glitz & Glamour Christmas celebrations.

“Alongside our festive events, which will run throughout December, we also have plans to expand our service offering beyond weddings and events — with further redevelopment due to take place in 2022.

"We will also be looking to recruit seasonal and full-time employees, to support the community, across numerous roles such as finance manager and operational support team.”

Nestled within 42 acres of parkland, Kelham Hall was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott in 1863. The building housed the Society of the Sacred Mission theological college, before becoming the former headquarters of Newark and Sherwood District Council.

The building was then sold and became a wedding and events venue before its closure earlier this year.

Kelham Hall has been shut since June when its previous owners went into liquidation.

As a result, many weddings and events were cancelled, including August's Steampunk Festival.

The Renaissance at Kelham Hall’s Christmas celebrations will take place throughout the festive season, and have been designed to bring together family, friends and colleagues who were unable to celebrate last year due to coronavirus restrictions.

Tickets for the Glitz & Glamour Christmas celebrations are on sale for £65 per ticket and are available to purchase from www.ticketsource.co.uk/therenaissance

For more information about Kelham Hall, please call 01636 390 500.