Founders’ Hall is the home of the Worshipful Company of Founders (one of the City’s ancient livery companies). Built in the 1980s with a striking and eclectic design, the Hall preserves historic traits whilst embracing modern ideas. Drop in during Open House to explore its treasures, meet members, and enjoy activities for all ages!

Green Lloyd Architects, 1987

Community engagement is promised in every regeneration project, but how often do locals truly shape their spaces? Do professionals know best, or should power be shared? Join us at The Priory Church of St Bartholomew the Great for the Accelerate Debate, where bold thinkers explore the ethics, risks and rewards of co-design.

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Nestled in the eaves of the Grade II listed Smithfield Market, Carmody Groarke’s architecture studio occupies a once-overlooked attic. Designed to accommodate 45 people alongside a workshop and model gallery, the office breathes new life into the previously unused space. Built in 1868, the meat market continues to operate today, serving as a dynamic backdrop to our practice.

Sir Horace Jones, 1868

Join young Creatives from All Change’s B Creative arts activism programme for young women, to create original affirmation bracelets and black-out poetry. Express and share messages of hope and positivity for ourselves and our community.

Bring a splash of colour to your day with our face painting corner! From roaring tigers to sparkling butterflies, our artists will transform little faces (and grown-up ones too!) with fun, creative designs. Drop in, pick your favourite look, and leave with a smile.

Join award-winning poet and writer Laurie Bolger for a heartfelt workshop all about celebrating kindness. Through creative prompts and gentle guidance, Laurie will help you craft your own uplifting “messages of kindness” to share. The session will close with a special reading of one of Laurie’s poems, reminding us of the power of words to connect, comfort, and inspire.

Step into a soulful, uplifting evening that blends live music, conversation, and community. For Those Who Need Hugs is more than a performance, it’s an intimate experience where artistry meets connection. Expect powerful vocals, raw emotion, and moments that will stay with you long after the night ends.

Performed by Eva Gerretsen, representing the Boats Bring Bonds collective, this meditative spoken word piece explores the cultural and ecological significance of the oyster to London, reflecting on ideas of “watery commons” and multispecies care.

Get hands-on and creative at the SoulPrint Crafts Corner! Drop in anytime to try out different activities. From making your own paper shoes using recycled materials and fabrics, to exploring fun and imaginative drawing and painting. It’s a welcoming space for all ages to experiment, make something unique, and enjoy the joy of crafting together. Bring your own t-shirt or tote bag and upcycle!

We’re kicking off Bartholomew Fayre with a proper Friday night feast! Our friends at Cloth Restaurant will be serving up something special for the community. The menu will feature a mouth-watering hog roast, generously donated by Smithfield Market, a true nod to the area’s history, and yummy veggie and vegan options alongside a pay bar.

Get ready for Disco Loco – Hackney Showroom’s wild and wonderful family party! Perfect for families with young children, this high-energy session brings everyone together on the dance floor. With a live DJ spinning fun tunes and an MC leading the way, expect plenty of dance floor games, hula hoop fun, and colourful ribbons to wave around.