Hemsted Park is a leading performing arts venue based on the stunning 250-acre site of Benenden School in the village of Benenden, just outside Cranbrook in Kent.

Hemsted Park’s performance spaces principally comprise the stunning new Centenary Hall, which has established one of the foremost concert halls in the South East of England, and the separate beautiful purpose-built Theatre. Other spaces include The Bonnie Yeung-Tsang Recital Hall as well as the historic parkland that Hemsted Park is proud to call its home.

These multi-purpose spaces allow a wide array of events, ranging from side-splitting stand-up comedy to grand orchestral performances, and from professional theatrical productions to enchanting children’s ballet shows. Hemsted Park proudly offers a diverse selection of performances tailored to cater to a variety of tastes and interests.

Benenden Theatre is a 300-seat main auditorium with flexible staging that can be moved into several different configurations, including an Orchestra Pit for musical productions. The Theatre is the perfect size to enjoy a wonderful experience up close, ensuring a great view from every seat. Guests can also enjoy a drink from one of the bars (each floor features a bar), and there is space to stretch your legs in the expansive atrium.

The Benenden Theatre stage has hosted a diverse range of productions, with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems ensuring every performance comes to life in spectacular fashion.

The Centenary Hall

Since opening its doors to the public, the Centenary Hall has played host to illustrious acts such as the English National Opera, the Philharmonia Orchestra, the Len Phillips Swing Orchestra, and the accomplished touring company Chapterhouse.

The Centenary Buildings, which have recently been completed, comprise a light and airy atrium which includes a fully-stocked bar, smaller Recital Hall and the main Centenary Hall – an 800-seater multi-purpose space that has established one of the foremost concert halls in the South East.

Designed by the multi award-winning Guy Hollaway Architects, the stunning new Centenary Hall offers state-of-the-art acoustics and gives audiences a truly impressive performance experience.

Accessibilty

Disabled parking bays are available. Please speak to one of the parking marshals when you arrive, who will direct you to a suitable space within easy access to the venue you are attending.

You can book accessible spaces through the online booking system. Guide and assistance dogs are allowed. In addition, you can contact the Box Office team if you would like to discuss specific requirements in advance. The Box Office team can be reached on 01580 236699 from 9.00am – 5.00pm on weekdays.

Getting to Hemsted Park

Hemsted Park is less than 40 minutes away from Royal Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone and Ashford, and 45 minutes from Hastings just outside the village of Benenden. The nearest train station is Staplehurst Station on the Ashford line, about a 20-minute drive away. Please note there is no taxi rank at the station so taxis should be booked in advance.

Parking.
There is free parking available on site. Upon arrival, the friendly parking team will direct you around the site to a suitable parking space.