The Royal Albert Hall, London

The Royal Albert Hall is one of the most famous venues in the world. From classical music concerts to rock and pop, from opera and ballet to circus, from community events to tennis, the Hall's programme is incredibly diverse.

The Royal Albert Hall opened in 1871 and is a Grade I listed building. It was originally going to be called The Central Hall of Arts and Sciences, but Queen Victoria changed its name to the Royal Albert Hall of Arts and Sciences when she dedicated it to her deceased husband and consort Prince Albert. The Prince had been inspired after The Great Exhibition of 1851, which took place in Hyde Park, to create a central hall to promote the understanding of the arts and sciences.

The Hall is a multipurpose building and is used for concerts, exhibitions, public meetings, scientific conversations and award ceremonies. The building is an ellipse in plan. The great glass and wrought-iron dome roofing the hall is 41 meters high. It was originally designed with a capacity for 8,000 people. Around the outside of the hall is a great mosaic frieze, depicting "The Triumph of Arts and Sciences", in reference to the Hall's dedication. Above the frieze is an inscription in terracotta letters that combine historical details and Biblical quotations. You can take a tour of the Royal Albert Hall and experience the excitement as it prepares for the evening's performance.

Royal Albert Hall