London Theatres: The Royal Albert Hall – London's Historic Theatre

There are all sorts of historic London sites, and one of the most notable of these is the Royal Albert Hall. Located in Knightsbridge in the City of Westminster borough of London, this theatre is historic and has been home to some memorable performances in theatre and music. In fact, there are always events happening at the Hall.

The Royal Albert Hall was built in Knightsbridge in 1871. Opened by Queen Victoria, the building was named in honor of Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, the husband of Victoria. It first received electric lighting in 1897, being one of the first electric buildings in the London area. From 1996 to 2004 the Hall received various renovations, and amazingly no events were impacted or postponed by these renovations.

Since the theatre first opened all sorts of events have occurred at the venue. Theatre events, including ballet and opera events, are especially popular here. Concerts, including some rock music concerts, are also popular. Some sporting events, most notably boxing, occur at this theatre.

Many famous performances have been at the Hall. For more than sixty years the Proms, a Sir Henry Wood production, is held every summer as a classical music festival. Many famous rock musicians have performed here as well. In 1963 the Beatles and Rolling Stones performed together, and this was the only time both artists played together. Also, in 2005 the legendary blues-rock trio Cream held a four day stint of reunion shows. Other notable artists to have played here include Bob Dylan, Pink Floyd (who was banned for setting off cannons in the Hall), Genesis and the Cure.

Various events happen at the Hall, but like with other historic London sites there are tours of this theatre available. There are tours in the daytime every day here, and there is also a shop and a restaurant at the Hall.

The seating of the Hall is also in the round. There are four levels – the Stalls, Boxes, Circle and Gallery. All seats are generally available for all shows, and the stage of the venue extends into the crowd as a circle.

Tickets for events at the Royal Albert Hall are also easy to get. The easiest way to get tickets or tours booked is to go to the Hall's website at royalalberthall.com. The box office, which is open throughout the day, can also be reached at Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP. The Hall can also be reached by phone at 020 7838 3105.

The Royal Albert Hall is one of the most storied historic London sites. For more than a century the Hall has featured all sorts of events. It is truly a landmark of London history and is a site to definitely see when in London.