The national Clarion movement aimed to create a fairer, more humane society through both political action and healthy living. Physical, moral and social beauty.
It provided an escape from industrial drudgery: offering town workers access to the ‘new life’ and clean air of the countryside. Groups like the Clarion Cycling Club (founded 1894) and walking groups used the houses as rural meeting places. They weren’t just tea rooms; they were designed to celebrate fellowship, community and discussion.
Clarion House on Jinny Lane is now the last remaining one in the UK. Following sites at Thorneyholme Square and Nabs Farm, this was purpose-built in 1912 by the Nelson Independent Labour Party and financed by a loan from the Nelson Weavers’ Association.
It has served as a vital hub for the socialist movement, serving as an organising centre during the 1926 General Strike, offering respite for unemployed workers in the 1930s, and providing days out for striking miners during the 1984-5 strike.
Watch more: ‘The Last Clarion House’, directed by Charlotte Bill
