The Criterion Blue Town — Attraction in Borough of Swale

I visited this venue on Tuesday 6 December 2022, for the Christmas variety show which was an afternoon event. The coach drop off point was directly in front of the entrance and access to the building is step free. Before going through to the main hall , there is one of the two licensed bars and toilets including a disabled toilet. The main hall was quaint and cosy and decorated for Xmas. The seating and tables were set up in long rows but due to disability issues, I requested to be seated separately. The staff kindly let me sit in an adjoining room where I ate my fish and chips boxed lunch. This area was also open to the public and I had an interesting conversation with a father and son who had come in to enjoy a pre-booked cream tea. The father had been evacuated during the war from Walthamstow, East London to South Wales during WW2. Quite some distance! The venue also has ice cream on sale , so I partook! I was seated at the back separately as I requested , to see the entertainment. This consisted of 3 mature performers ( one was about to retire at the age of 76!) who gave a tuneful rendition of songs ranging from the 30s ,50s and they even gave Abba songs a go. Sadly , even though I am in my 60s it wasn't to my taste but much older people were having a great time! The venue has a maritime museum upstairs , which I did not investigate but our coach driver said it was worth a look. My thanks to Kathy and Peter and all the staff who amazingly are...

Alison gave me a wonderful introduction and tour of the premises. I made another visit as there was quite a bit to see and I like to take my time learning and reading the carefully curated and written captions on the display. Run by volunteers but you can tell by the cleanliness, condition of the walls, floors and the numerus accompanying displays and texts of information that it is years and years and current volunteers with huge interest that have given it such great upkeep and research so I make an effort to read the displays. It is a hidden gem for Kent and Sheppey especially if you have an interest in history, wartime, maritime and local Sheppey. There’s also a well kept cafe on site and the theatre. A good venue as well and for coach tours. Recommend a visit if its to kill time or you have a good passionate interest,...

We visited this wonderful museum yesterday and I would highly recommend a visit. It is FREE! (with donations appreciated). The staff and volunteers are very friendly and informative. There is so much to see and learn about Bluetown and the Island - it really is quite amazing. The cakes in the coffee shop looked very enticing and they have meeting place facilities too. There is a lift for visitors who can't make it up the stairs, parking is also free. There are many events held there throughout the year in the beautifully restored music hall. Check out the website and pay them a visit, you will not be disappointed. A big thank you to Jenny and the team who made our visit...