Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Tren

Victoria Hall in Stoke-on-Trent is a historic venue built in 1888 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. Following refurbishment, it has become a key part of the city’s Cultural Quarter, hosting a wide range of live performances from music to comedy, including artists such as Paul Weller and Jimmy Carr.

The venue offers excellent accessibility, with step-free access throughout and a glass lift providing access to all levels. This makes it one of the more mobility-friendly historic venues, allowing visitors to move easily between floors. The lift can accommodate wheelchairs up to 78cm wide and 140cm long, with a maximum weight of 630kg.

Wheelchair spaces are available across all levels of the auditorium. In the Stalls, there are designated spaces in Rows H and S, which are accessible directly from the foyer via level access. Additional wheelchair spaces are located in the Circle (Row D) and Upper Circle (Row B), both of which can be reached using the lift. Companion seating is available alongside these spaces, and staff can assist with seating arrangements if needed.

The Stalls offers a flat floor throughout, making it the most accessible seating area. There are also specific step-free seating options in the Circle and Upper Circle for those who do not require wheelchair spaces but prefer minimal steps. Seating across the venue features fixed armrests, with widths varying slightly between levels.

Accessible toilets are available on every level of the venue, including in the foyer, Circle bar, Upper Circle bar and Sponsors Room, all of which can be reached via lift.

All bar areas include low-level counters for easier access, and an at-seat service is available before performances and during intervals, allowing guests to order refreshments without needing to leave their seats.

Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the venue and can either remain with their owner or be cared for by staff during the performance if arranged in advance.

For visitors with visual impairments, the venue offers audio described performances and touch tours for selected shows. Seating in the Stalls is generally recommended for the best view of the stage. Guests who are D/deaf or hard of hearing can benefit from both an infrared hearing loop system and Mobile Connect compatibility, providing flexible options for enhanced audio throughout the auditorium.

A visual story guide is also available on request, helping first-time visitors or those with sensory needs prepare for their visit in advance.

Victoria Hall successfully combines historic charm with modern accessibility, offering step-free access, lift access to all levels, and a wide range of inclusive features to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors.