History of Alexandra Palace
Alexandra Palace is a historic building located in Alexandra Park in the London borough of Haringey. The palace – envisioned as “Palace of The People” – was built in 1873 as a public facility for the amusement and recreation of the people of north London. It was designed in the Gothic style and was one of the first buildings in Britain to be made entirely of concrete.
The palace – called “Ally Pally” by the locals – was a popular venue for public events such as exhibitions, concerts, and sporting events. However, it was also the site of some tragic events, including a fire in 1873 that destroyed much of the building. Alexandra Palace was rebuilt and reopened to the public in 1875. Today, it is a Grade II listed building and is home to a number of businesses and organizations.
Music Concerts
With its grand Victorian architecture and stunning setting overlooking north London, the venue has played host to some of the biggest names in music, from The Beatles to Elton John. In recent years, Alexandra Palace has become renowned for its annual series of summer concerts, which showcase a diverse range of musical genres. From chart-topping pop singers to world-famous classical orchestras, there is something for everyone at these spectacular events. With tickets selling out fast, don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of live music at one of London’s most iconic venues.
First Home to the BBC Television Studios
Alexandra Palace was the first home of the BBC Television Studios, where regular broadcasts began in 1936. The first outside broadcast was the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1937. The studios remained at Alexandra Palace until 1949 when they moved to larger premises at Lime Grove. Alexandra Palace continued to be used for occasional broadcasts until 1981, when it was permanently closed.
Since 1982, the building has been managed by the London Borough of Haringey and is now a Grade II listed building. In 1985 it was merged with Alexandra Park and opened to the public as a heritage attraction. Today it houses two museums, The Learning Centre, studios and performance spaces, conference facilities, bars, and restaurants.
Ice Rink
In 1990 an ice rink was installed at Alexandra Palace. Intended primarily for public skating. It has also housed ice hockey teams including the Haringey Racers, the Haringey Greyhounds, the London Racers, and now the Haringey Huskies, as well as a figure skating club, the Alexandra Palace Amateur Ice Skating Club.
The Alexandra Palace ice rink is a great place to enjoy some public skating or to take in an ice hockey match. It’s also been used as a filming location for movies like Last Christmas, so you might just feel like you’re in the movie when you’re skating around!
Similar Posts:
- Crystal Palace Park: A Guide to London’s Magnificent Garden With Dinosaurs
- Hampton Court Palace: The Historic Royal Palace in London
- London Clubs: Check Out the Best Nightclubs in London and Dance the Night Away!
- Visiting Famous Food Markets in London: Borough Market
- Visit Kingston Upon Thames and Explore Its Beauty With Our Comprehensive Guide
- A Visitor’s Guide to Eltham Palace and Gardens. English Heritage Art Deco Sights
- Central London Landmarks: Hyde Park, London and Kensington Gardens
- Abbey Road London Zebra Crossing: A Guide to London’s Most Famous Tourist Spot
