Alexandra Palace
The Alexandra Palace began life in 1873 as The People's Palace, a
purpose-built recreation area set amid 196 acres of parkland with
superb views of central London. Though the original Palace burnt down
only a few days after opening, a second Palace was quickly built,
offering, among other delights, exhibition space, museums, lecture
hall and library, a roller skating rink and a theatre.
The Alexandra Palace remained a popular recreation place throughout
the late Victorian period, until an Act of Parliament ensured that
it would remain available "for the free use and recreation of
the public forever". In 1935 the BBC leased space in the Palace,
and it was from here that the first television broadcasts were made
in 1836. The BBC continued to use the Palace for its news broadcasts
for the next several decades.
The facilities at the Palace have been continually updated and remodeled,
particularly after a devastating fire in 1980. The range of facilities
available are impressive - but so too is its architectural value as
a wonderful example of Victorian opulence.
Guided tours of Alexandra Palace are available, taking in
Wood Green
(free shuttle bus to Alexandra Palace on show days)
