Wednesday 16 September, 18.00 – 19.30
Free admission, Booking Essential
Explore the newly restored 12 Claremont on this special guided tour, taking place as part of a national programme, Heritage Open Days, celebrating heritage, community and history.
Built in 1870, 12 Claremont is a prominent five-story Victorian building in the historical area of Trinity Triangle in Hastings. Originally erected as the Claremont Rooms, its rich history includes housing Hastings’ first telephone exchange, an art school, and a local workers’ reading room.
Following extensive heritage renovations by Hastings Commons, it now operates as a creative hub with workspaces and a gallery space. This will be the first public tour of the building since its reopening, offering a unique opportunity to discover its history, architectural restoration and exciting new chapter.
The 90-minute tour will be led by Project Art Works, whose founders had a studio on the building’s top floor more than 25 years ago. Today, Project Art Works has returned to 12 Claremont with a ground-floor gallery championing the work of autistic and learning disabled artists, creating an inclusive space for artists, families, carers and visitors.
Joining the tour will be Amici Studio CIC that now runs the creative hub on the building’s top floor. Amici Studio is a multi-use creative space delivering collaborative exhibitions, events and learning activity for artists, creative practitioners and local communities. Learn how the building is inspiring the cultural programme for this new cultural offer.
On the tour we will share stories of the building’s past and present, tracing its evolution from the Claremont Rooms to a renewed centre for creativity and community, while highlighting the thoughtful restoration undertaken by Hastings Commons.
The tour is free to attend, but places are limited and advance booking is recommended.
Date: Tuesday 16 September
Time: 18.00 – 19.30
Venue: 12 Claremont, Hastings, TN34 1HA
Cost: Free, Booking Essential
We look forward to welcoming you to discover the remarkable story of 12 Claremont its history, its transformation, and its future as a home for creativity, accessibility and community.