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Alexandra Palace

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The ceiling of Ally Pally's newly restored theatre space
Photo: Keith ArmstrongThe ceiling of Ally Pally's newly restored theatre space
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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
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What’s on

North London Book Fest

  • Literary events

Grade II-listed north London icon Alexandra Palace plays host to the inaugural edition of this brand new literary festival, which promises four jam-packed days of readings, panel discussions, workshops and book signings. Celebrated authors in attendance include former Children’s Laureate Michael Rosen, ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’ creator Lemony Snicket, bestselling crime writer Erin Kelly and Women’s Prize for Fiction shortlistee Natalie Haynes, while the programme promises something for all genres and ages, presenting ‘a rich tapestry of the UK’s thriving literary scene’. 

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