Golden Torch

The Golden Torch was a music venue in Tunstall featuring a distinctive interior with marble columns and a balcony overlooking the central dance floor on Hose Street. The space accommodated around 500 people, though crowds regularly exceeded this capacity.

The building had previously served as a church and roller skating rink before opening as a music venue in 1965. By the mid-1960s, it shifted from mod music to Northern soul, marking a significant change in its musical direction.

The venue became a gathering place where Northern soul music defined the experience, and the exclusive selection of rare American records shaped what visitors expected to hear each night. This focus on specific sounds made it a destination for people who shared deep knowledge about soul music.

The venue hosted regular all-night events throughout the week, drawing crowds from well beyond the local area. Visitors should expect long nights and lively crowds if they plan to attend.

The venue became known for attracting record collectors who traveled significant distances to source rare American soul records for its exclusive playlist. This dedication to finding specific records meant the music collection was unlike anywhere else.