Located right in the heart of the Market Place, No28 in Belper is a vibrant community hub with a fascinating history. Originally the site of the ancient and somewhat disreputable Angel Inn, the space was replaced by a Salvation Army Hall in 1930 before opening its doors as No28 in 2013. After operating successfully for a decade as a private, not-for-profit social enterprise, it officially transitioned into a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2024. This ensures that every bit of surplus revenue is poured right back into benefiting the local community, keeping its focus entirely on social goals and local connection.
The venue itself functions as a multi-purpose hall with a 60-person capacity, featuring a stage, a well-equipped kitchen, and walls that double as an ever-changing gallery for local art and heritage exhibitions. It is incredibly popular for private hires—hosting everything from children’s parties and workshops to pop-up global dining nights. However, it truly shines during its regular community events. No28 runs a diverse calendar of monthly gatherings, including live music like their regular jazz nights, bi-monthly comedy evenings, book and gardening clubs, and even monthly well-being sessions like Buddhist meetings and gong baths. They also play an important social safety-net role, hosting monthly community “Welcome Meals,” vegan dinners, and weekly winter warm-space drop-ins.
One of the absolute highlights of No28’s calendar is its involvement with the popular Belper Farmers’ Market. Held monthly, the market transforms the area, and No28 opens up its own internal café to support the crowds. Visitors popping into the market can step inside No28 to grab hot drinks, light lunches, cobs, and homemade cake, often while browsing additional artists’ and makers’ stalls set up inside the hall. This bustling market atmosphere—which extends to their Summer Sunday Markets and the massive Belper Food Festivals—makes No28 the perfect, warm retreat to experience the best of Derbyshire’s local food, crafts, and community spirit.
