Carlisle Undercroft - A Royally Recognised Project

The city of Carlisle is bursting with creativity and talent. Visual artists, musicians, actors and more make up a diverse community of local artists. In stark contrast, Carlisle has few affordable and equipped venues suitable for cultural experiences.

Kimberley Watkin and Adam Hughes are working to address this by opening Carlisle Undercroft; a versatile space in which artists and their community can explore and share enriching experiences. A space where imagination is not restricted and where collaboration is celebrated.

It was in 2015 and 2016, whilst working with Carlisle based community arts group Dance Ahead , that Kimberley first discovered the potential of the space that is now known as Carlisle Undercroft. Since, Kimberley and Adam have worked passionately to begin transforming Carlisle Undercroft from a site of neglected historical significance into a first-class venue.

Though we have a way to go before the project is complete we are proud of the progress we have made so far. And you can support out journey by helping us hit and exceed our JustGiving target.

The space in 2018, before renovation - Photo taken by Paul Childs from the Railway Heritage Trust

We are raising a total of £150,000 from a range of sources so that we can, through local contractors, carry out essential improvements to the space and transform it into a home for community art.

Carlisle Undercroft once renovated - supplied by 2030 Architects.

Royal Appointment

Kimberley and Adam's work has been recognised nationally in the form of an invite to the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. We are very proud of this honour and will dedicate the first of our 'Buy-A Brick' bricks to the couple, whose names will be engraved and displayed on the venue's wall of thanks.

By donating £50 or more to our project you can claim your spot on the wall with your very own personalised brick, which will sit alongside royal company forever, in our unique venue.

To receive regular updates regarding our project and our preparations for the Royal Wedding please like our Facebook page.

Thank you :)