Get us in your inbox

Search

Alexandra Palace

  • Things to do
  • Alexandra Palace
  • Recommended
The ceiling of Ally Pally's newly restored theatre space
Photo: Keith ArmstrongThe ceiling of Ally Pally's newly restored theatre space
Advertising

Time Out says

This palatial venue is back in action, with a newly renovated theatre serving up a mix of gigs and plays

Commonly known as the 'People's Palace' or Ally Pally, Alexandra Palace looks out over north London from a height. Its altitude rewards casual walkers with spectacular views, and its commanding location and 190-odd acres of leafy parkland mean it's often mistaken for a magnificent palace of regal importance.

In reality, it's an offbeat arts/entertainment centre that's making a renewed bid to pull in Londoners for nights out, after decades in the doldrums. In 2018, it re-opened the massive theatre space that had been out-of-action for decades, giving it a makeover that left its most picturesquely crumbling bits intact. In the years since, it's offered a mix of touring large-scale plays, seated gigs, and kids shows. The adjoining East Court is back in action too, offering an airy conservatory-like space where theatregoers can drink, mingle and take tea. These additions join the venue's existing indoor ice-skating rink, expo hall and a vast gig space where you can catch big names and the odd clubbing event. 

The renovation has marked a new chapter in Ally Pally's troubled history. Built in 1873 as a palace for the people, it has experienced bad luck including two devastating fires (the first just two weeks after it opened; the second in 1980 after it was rebuilt), years of poor funding and periods of bad management.

Despite this, Ally Pally continues to hold a spot in the heart of Londoners, and a proud place in history as the birthplace of the world's first regular public television broadcast by the BBC in 1936. There's a bonfire night every year, a boating lake, pitch and putt course, and deer enclosure.

Details

Address:
Alexandra Palace Way
London
N22 7AY
Transport:
Tube: Wood Green
Price:
Free
Opening hours:
Times vary dependent on event. Check the website for details
Do you own this business?
Sign in & claim business
Advertising
You may also like
You may also like
Bestselling Time Out offers