Cecil Sharp House: The Heart of English Folk Dance and Song
Discover the vibrant heart of English folk music and dance at Cecil Sharp House, a historic cultural centre in London.
Cecil Sharp House, located at 2 Regent's Park Rd, London NW1 7AY, is a Grade II listed cultural centre and event venue dedicated to English folk music and dance. Built in 1929, it serves as the headquarters of the English Folk Dance and Song Society (EFDSS) and houses the Vaughan Williams Memorial Library, concert halls, teaching rooms, a café, and a bar. The building is renowned for its acoustic design, historic Ivon Hitchens mural, and vibrant folk arts programming.
A brief summary to Cecil Sharp House
- 2 Regent's Park Rd, London, NW1 7AY, GB
- +442074852206
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-11 pm
- Thursday 9 am-11 pm
- Friday 9 am-11 pm
- Saturday 9 am-11 pm
- Sunday 9 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Check the schedule for live folk music concerts and dance workshops to experience the venue’s vibrant cultural programming.
- Visit the Vaughan Williams Memorial Library inside the house to explore one of the richest archives of English folk music and dance.
- Take time to admire the Ivon Hitchens mural in Kennedy Hall, a unique artistic tribute to English folk traditions.
- Enjoy refreshments at Sharp’s Bar or the café, perfect spots to soak in the folk atmosphere between events.
- Plan your visit during the International Folk Dance Festival or other special events for a truly immersive experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Northern Line to Camden Town station, which is approximately a 15-minute walk from Cecil Sharp House. The route is well signposted, and the walk is along mostly flat urban streets. Tube fares range from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 24, 27, 88, and 134 serve the area around Regent's Park Road, with stops within a 5-minute walk of Cecil Sharp House. Bus journeys from central London take 20 to 30 minutes. Standard bus fares apply, typically £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to Cecil Sharp House typically takes 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £10 and £20. Note that parking near the venue is limited and mostly restricted.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Cecil Sharp House is a pleasant option. From Camden Town, the walk is about 1.2 km on paved urban paths, taking roughly 15 minutes. The route is accessible and suitable for most visitors.
Cecil Sharp House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cecil Sharp House
A Living Tribute to Cecil Sharp and English Folk Heritage
Cecil Sharp House stands as a monument to Cecil Sharp, a pioneering collector and preserver of English folk music and dance. Sharp’s passion for traditional folk arts sparked a revival in the early 20th century, culminating in the founding of the English Folk Dance Society in 1911. The house, completed in 1929 and officially opened in 1930, was designed as a dedicated home for this society, which later merged with the Folk Song Society to form the English Folk Dance and Song Society (EFDSS). It holds Sharp’s extensive collection of folk music and dance archives, preserving a rich cultural legacy that continues to inspire musicians and dancers today.Architectural Elegance and Post-War Resilience
Designed by Henry Martineau Fletcher in a neo-Georgian style, Cecil Sharp House features notable architectural elements including Kennedy Hall, a large concert space with a sprung ballroom floor optimized for dance and acoustic performance. The building suffered significant damage during World War II bombings in 1940, which destroyed the front entrance, stairwell, and musicians’ gallery. Post-war restoration led by architect John Eastwick-Field added a new foyer and an additional floor, reopening in 1951. The musicians’ gallery was replaced by a monumental mural by Ivon Hitchens, completed in 1954, depicting traditional English folk dances and becoming the largest mural in the UK at the time.A Hub for Folk Arts and Community Engagement
Today, Cecil Sharp House remains a vibrant cultural centre hosting live concerts, dance classes, workshops, festivals, and private events. It houses the Vaughan Williams Memorial Library, England’s national folk music and dance archive, which offers extensive multimedia resources. The venue also includes smaller performance and rehearsal rooms, a café, and Sharp’s Bar, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for artists and audiences alike. Its programming connects local, national, and international folk traditions, making it a dynamic hub for folk arts preservation and innovation.Historical Significance and Cultural Impact
Cecil Sharp’s work was instrumental in rescuing English folk traditions from obscurity, collecting thousands of songs and dances from rural communities. The house not only commemorates his legacy but actively furthers his mission by supporting folk music education and performance. It has hosted significant events such as the International Folk Dance Festival in 1935 and continues to be a focal point for folk revival movements. The building’s Grade II listing underscores its architectural and cultural importance within London’s heritage landscape.Artistic Highlights and Iconic Features
Kennedy Hall’s sprung floor and acoustic design make it a premier venue for folk music and dance performances. The Ivon Hitchens mural, spanning 69 by 20 feet, visually narrates the story of English folk dance traditions with abstract pastoral imagery. The house’s design balances functionality with aesthetic charm, incorporating teaching rooms and social spaces that encourage community interaction. Sharp’s Bar and the café provide convivial spots for visitors to relax and immerse themselves in the folk atmosphere.Continuing the Folk Tradition in a Modern World
Cecil Sharp House remains an active centre for the folk arts, adapting to contemporary cultural trends while honoring traditional forms. It supports a wide range of activities including concerts, dance workshops, academic research, and community outreach. The EFDSS’s ongoing work ensures that English folk music and dance continue to thrive, reaching new audiences through both live events and digital platforms. The house stands as a beacon for cultural heritage, creativity, and community spirit in North London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
