We’ve done it! We have purchased the first Sea Cloud Hall and Taoist Centre of Excellence in England!
Is it an amazing feat that could not have happened without the support of the whole community and without the relentless energy of the Sea Cloud work group, who have helped turn this vision into reality!
In the remarkable 50th year of Laoba Desmond Murray’s training journey, we have secured a permanent home for the Taoist Arts, ensuring they will flourish for generations to come!
A Legacy in the Making
The story of the Taoist Arts in the West began in the 1930s with Chan Kam Lee’s first class in the UK. Later, Chee Soo’s remarkable teaching brought these arts to thousands across Europe and beyond. Following in this legacy, Laoba Desmond Murray has devoted himself to nurturing new generations of practitioners, building a thriving Taoist community. Together, we’ve now established a permanent home for the Lee Family Taoist Arts.
The Birth of Sea Cloud Hall
Sea Cloud Hall, named after the legendary White Cloud Hall in Beijing, is endorsed by Taoists in China, who have supported the International Taoist Society’s (ITS) efforts to create Centres of Excellence in the West.
While the spirit of Sea Cloud Hall has been alive since Chan Kam Lee began teaching in the UK, the realization of this dream comes after over a decade of dedication. Guided by Laoba and Laoma Waiyii Yeung, the ITS explored countless venues, overcoming challenges and near misses.
In May 2024, while on the Taoist Trail in China, a miracle occurred—Sandford Lodge was listed for sale. Just eight months later, the ITS completed the purchase, securing a lasting home for the arts.
A Place of Miracles
One of the many wonders of Sea Cloud Hall is its incredible condition. This historic building, over 200 years old, sits by the River Aire, overlooking Kirkstall Meadows Nature Reserve and the historic Kirkstall Abbey, the birthplace of Leeds. The space exudes peace and tranquility, offering an ideal environment for the Taoist Arts.
Key Milestones on the Journey
- May 2024: Sandford Lodge is listed for sale.
- June 2024: ITS makes a successful bid for the property.
- September 2024: ITS secures mortgage approval.
- Tuesday, 10 December 2024, 4 PM: Completion finalized—keys handed over!
- Wednesday, 11 December 2024, 9 AM: Volunteers gather to prepare the space.
- Wednesday, 11 December 2024, 6 PM: The first evening class is held at the new premises.
- Thursday, 12 December 2024, 9 AM: The inaugural training event, Winter Course 2024, takes place.
- Saturday, 14 December 2024, 2 PM: Official Sea Cloud Hall opening event. You can find out more about it HERE.
A Space to Flourish
The main training hall features a sprung floor, perfect for practicing the arts, with warm, cozy surroundings and abundant natural light. The site is easily accessible—just 10 minutes by car from the city center, a 5-minute walk from Headingley train station, or a scenic 30-minute walk from Leeds city center along the canal.
Nestled near the historic Bridge Inn pub and two bustling shopping centers, Sea Cloud Hall offers a serene retreat from the world outside. Once you cross the bridge into the Taoist world, once you pass its gates, the tranquility of this special place surrounds you, providing the perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion.
Join Us at Sea Cloud Hall
We are thrilled to welcome you to our new permanent home for the Lee Family Taoist Arts. Whether you join us for a class, course, or special event, we know you’ll feel the magic of this space—a place of history, harmony, and community.
See you at Sea Cloud Hall in Leeds!