When it comes to organising a memorable charity event, location matters. Choosing a unique venue doesn’t just influence the atmosphere – it shapes the entire experience for your guests. Historical venues, in particular, offer distinctive charm and cultural richness that can elevate any gathering from routine to remarkable.

Set in the heart of Nottingham, Malt Cross is a beautifully restored Victorian music hall that provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop for charitable occasions. As a not-for-profit venue, we are deeply committed to supporting causes that align with our values, and we offer a space where history and community come together. Whether you’re planning a fundraising gala, community auction or awareness evening, Malt Cross offers a venue steeped in heritage – and full of potential.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to organise a charity event at a historic venue like the Malt Cross, covering everything from working with the space’s character to ensuring accessibility and compliance. We’ll also share stories from successful events held here, giving you inspiration for your own impactful gathering.

Step-by-Step: Planning a Charity Event at Malt Cross

1. Choosing the Right Historic Space for Your Event

The first step in planning your charity event is selecting the appropriate space. Malt Cross boasts a range of versatile areas to suit various event sizes and formats, from intimate acoustic performances to bustling charity auctions.

Key spaces include:

• The Main Hall: Featuring original Victorian architectural features, this space is ideal for larger gatherings and live entertainment.
• The Workshop Room: A more informal space perfect for smaller fundraisers, creative workshops or community talks.
• The Café-Bar Area: Ideal for relaxed mingling, charity coffee mornings, or after-hours drinks receptions.

Our events team will help you match your event type with the most suitable setting.To check availability or discuss space hire, visit our venue hire page or email us at events@maltcross.com.

2. Embracing the Period Features

One of the joys of hosting an event at a historic venue is making the most of its existing character. At Malt Cross, the stunning arched glass ceiling, wrought-iron balconies and original stage create an unforgettable atmosphere without the need for excessive decoration.

Tips for enhancing your event with our historic features:

• Use up-lighting to highlight architectural details
• Plan performances or speeches around our original stage
• Let the heritage elements inspire your theme – think vintage décor or fun dress codes

While modern venues often require extensive staging or theming to establish ambience, the Malt Cross offers this naturally – helping you save on costs while delivering a visually rich guest experience.

3. Booking Your Charity Event: Simple and Supportive

Booking a charity event at Malt Cross is straightforward. Our team are well-versed in working with charities, local groups and not-for-profit initiatives, and we aim to make the process as collaborative and accessible as possible.

Steps to book:

1. Initial enquiry: Get in touch via our website or call us to check date availability and discuss your event needs.
2. Venue tour: We’ll offer a walk-through of the space so you can plan layouts, access points, and technical setups.
3. Booking form and confirmation: Once details are agreed, we’ll issue a straightforward booking form and set everything in motion.
4. Ongoing support: From AV equipment to catering suggestions, our team is on hand to help you make the most of the venue.

As a not-for-profit organisation ourselves, we understand the pressures of event budgets and fundraising goals, and we’ll work with you to ensure every pound goes further.

4. Practical Considerations: Accessibility, Facilities and Preservation

Hosting a modern event in a historic setting does require a few additional considerations, particularly around accessibility and conservation. We are committed to being inclusive and welcoming to all.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Accessibility: While parts of the building retain their original layout, we have installed a lift and accessible toilets, ensuring that guests of all abilities can enjoy the space.
• Facilities: Our venue includes WiFi, AV systems, a staffed bar and optional catering partnerships with local suppliers.
• Conservation: Some fixtures and features are listed or preserved, meaning decorations must be non-invasive. Our events team can advise on how to style your event respectfully.

We are proud custodians of this beautiful building, and we’ll guide you in striking the perfect balance between functionality and preservation.

5. Real Stories: How History Inspires Giving

Hosting your charity event in a venue with such rich heritage can become a powerful part of your storytelling – reminding guests that by giving to your cause, they’re also supporting the preservation of a local landmark.

6. Work With Experts Who Understand Both Past and Present

Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of organising a charity event at Malt Cross is the dedicated and experienced team you’ll work with. We specialise in bridging the gap between modern event needs and heritage building limitations – so you don’t have to navigate this alone.

From risk assessments and sound system setup to advice on guest flow and signage that won’t damage walls, we’re here to take the pressure off you and let you focus on your cause.

Charity events are about connection, compassion and community. Holding your event in a historic venue like Malt Cross can help amplify your message, draw in wider audiences, and offer guests a memorable experience that lingers long after the last speech.

By choosing a venue with soul and story, you’re not just planning a fundraiser, you’re creating a moment that celebrates both people and place. Better still, when you hire our space, you’re also supporting our mission as a not-for-profit venue, helping to protect a piece of Nottingham’s cultural history for future generations.

Ready to Get Started?

Call us on 0115 941 1048
Email us at events@maltcross.com
Visit www.maltcross.com/venue-hire