Manchester Sacred Harp

UK Sacred Harp Convention

Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 September, 2026
Manchester, England

Schedule & Registering

The Grand Hall at The Whitworth. Black fold-out chairs are arranged in a hollow square in the centre of the room. There are no people in the image. There is a wooden floor in a beautiful herringbone pattern, soft green walls and darker green arched wooden supports fitted into the high ceiling.

To help us plan a great convention, meet your needs and keep everyone safe, we ask you to pre-register. And to help YOU plan, here’s the full schedule & timings.

Venue & accessibility

Stretford Public Hall - a large, impressive Victorian gothic building. It is mostly red brick with a grey slate roof and central clock tower over the grand arched entrance with a steeply pointed roof

We will sing both days at Stretford Public Hall, 4 miles to the south west of Manchester. A splendid Grade II listed building that’s wheelchair accessible.

Travel & parking

A vivid yellow arch towers above us against a bright blue summer sky. The place name 'Stretford' is in large black letters at the top. It's part of the Metrolink tram system's signage.

The venue is 4 mins from Stretford tram stop and on numerous bus routes. On the intersection of major roads, it’s easy to find, but busy for driving and parking.

Dinner on the grounds

Image of a shared meal. A table is generously laid with dishes of all kinds. There are bright green beans and breadsticks in a tall glass in the foreground. In the background, out of focus, we see people's arms stretched across the table to exchange dishes.

There will be a bring-and share lunch on the grounds both days. Bring something to contribute to the communal feast! Cold dishes only please.

Evening socials

We can see the lower part of a glass of lager. The European pint glass has a stem and is covered in condensation, suggesting a refreshing cold drink on a warm day. In the foreground we see the corner of a Sacred Harp book which is open on the table in front of the drink.

We’re in the process of planning the socials, but will organise fun in some format for the evenings of Friday 18 and Saturday 19.

Code of conduct & COVID

A black and white image of two singers sitting together but twisting away from each other.. The two women's heads are close, yet looking in opposite directions. One looks to the ceiling with a faint smile. The other, with her hand to her chin, is frowning and looks pensive, almost stern.

A new code of conduct for the convention is being drawn up. Meanwhile, here’s how we ask you to protect and respect each other.

Places to stay

A double bed with rumpled covers and a low wooden headboard in a peaceful looking room. There is a window letting in light from the side, and a desk and chair positioned by the window.

There is an overwhelming choice of hotels and B&Bs in Manchester. We share some pointers for convenience, and where’s exciting to be.

What to do in Manchester

A mosaic of a worker bee. The symbol of Manchester and of industry.

Make the most of your time here. Explore the cultural highlights of a vibrant city. Find hidden gems, historic pubs, or some peace in a green space.

Your first Convention?

The UK convention singing He Hath Saved Us at Barley Mow Village Hall on 20 September 2025. On the right, Leilai Immel-Parkinson leads the song; on the left, at the end of a line of basses, Matthew's head is just visible. Lots of tenors and basses in between.

It’s the biggest singing event in the UK Sacred Harp calendar, and it’s pretty special. If it’s your first time, here’s a bit about what to expect.