Royal Albert Hall - History of Royal Albert Hall Kensington - ATG Tickets Group Bookings Royal Albert Hall Overview The Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall situated on the northern edge of the South Kensington area, in the City of Westminster, London, England, best known for holding the annual summer Proms concerts since 1941. It is one of the UK's most treasured and distinctive buildings, recognisable all over the world. Since its opening by Queen Victoria in 1871, the world's leading artists from every kind of performance genre have appeared on its stage. Each year it hosts more than 350 performances including classical concerts, rock and pop, ballet and opera, tennis, award ceremonies, school and community events, charity performances and banquets. The hall was originally supposed to have been called The Central Hall of Arts and Sciences, but the name was changed by Queen Victoria to Royal Albert Hall of Arts and Sciences when laying the foundation stone as a dedication to her deceased husband and consort Prince Albert. It forms the practical part of a national memorial to the Prince Consort – the decorative part is the Albert Memorial directly to the north in Kensington Gardens, now separated from the Hall by the road Kensington Gore.

In 1851, the Great Exhibition was held in Hyde Park, London, for which the Crystal Palace was built. The exhibition was a great success and led Prince Albert, the Prince Consort, to propose that a permanent series of facilities be built in the area for the enlightenment of the public. Progress on the scheme was slow and in 1861 Prince Albert died, without having seen his ideas come to fruition. However, a memorial was proposed for Hyde Park, with a Great Hall opposite. The proposal was approved and the site was purchased with some of the profits from the Exhibition. Once the remaining funds had been raised, in April 1867 Queen Victoria signed the Royal Charter of the Corporation of the Hall of Arts and Sciences which was to operate the Hall and on 20 May, laid the foundation stone. The hall was designed by civil engineers Captain Francis Fowke and Major-General Henry Y.D. Scott of the Royal Engineers and built by Lucas Brothers. The designers were heavily influenced by ancient amphitheatres, but had also been exposed to the ideas of Gottfried Semper while he was working at the South Kensington Museum.

The recently opened Cirque d'Hiver in Paris was seen in the contemporary press as the design to outdo. The hall was constructed mainly of Fareham Red brick, with terra cotta block decoration made by Gibbs and Canning Limited of Tamworth. The dome (designed by Rowland Mason Ordish) on top was made of wrought iron and glazed. The first building in modern history to be built top down, there was a trial assembly made of the iron framework of the dome in Manchester, then it was taken apart again and transported to London via horse and cart. When the time came for the supporting structure to be removed from the dome after re-assembly in situ, only volunteers remained on site in case the structure dropped. It did drop – but only by five-eighths of an inch. The hall was scheduled to be completed by Christmas Day 1870 and the Queen visited a few days beforehand to inspect. She was reported as saying "It looks like the British Constitution". The official opening ceremony of the Royal Albert Hall was on 29 March 1871.

After a welcoming speech by Edward, the Prince of Wales, Queen Victoria was too overcome to speak, so the Prince had to announce that "The Queen declares this Hall is now open". A concert followed, when the Hall's acoustic problems became immediately apparent. Engineers first attempted to solve the acoustical problem by suspending a canvas awning below the dome. This helped and also provided relief to concertgoers from the sun. A 1949 attempt removed the awning and replaced the glass dome with aluminium panels; however, the acoustics were not properly tackled until 1969 when a series of large fibreglass acoustic diffusing discs (commonly referred to as "mushrooms" or "flying saucers") were installed below the ceiling to reduce the notorious echo. It used to be said that the hall was the only place where a British composer could be sure of hearing his work twice. Initially lit by gas, the hall contained a special system where its thousands of gas jets were lit within ten seconds. Though it was demonstrated as early as 1873 in the Hall, full electric lighting was not installed until 1888.

During an early trial when a partial installation was made, one disgruntled patron wrote to The Times newspaper declaring it to be "a very ghastly and unpleasant innovation". In 1936, the Hall was the scene of a giant rally celebrating the British Empire, the occasion being the centenary of Joseph Chamberlain's birth. In October 1942, the Hall suffered minor damage during World War II bombing but was left mostly untouched as German pilots used the distinctive structure as a landmark. Between 1996 and 2004 the Royal Albert Hall underwent a programme of renovation and development supported by a £20 million (roughly $32 million US) grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to enable it to meet the demands of the next century of events and performances. Thirty "discrete projects" were designed and supervised by BDP without disrupting events. These projects included improving ventilation to the auditorium, more bars and restaurants, new improved seating, better technical facilities and more modern backstage areas. The largest project was the building of a new south porch – door 12, accommodating a restaurant, new box office and below a new delivery area.

Although the exterior of the building was largely unchanged, the south steps leading down to Prince Consort Road were demolished to allow construction of an underground vehicle access and accommodation for 3 HGVs carrying all the equipment brought by shows. The steps were then reconstructed around a new south porch on the same scale and in the same style as the three pre-existing porches: these works were undertaken by Taylor Woodrow Construction. The original steps featured in early scenes of 1965 film The Ipcress File. On 4 June 2004, the project received the Europa Nostra Award for remarkable achievement. The East and West porches were glazed and new bars opened along with ramps to improve disabled access. Internally the Circle was rebuilt in four weeks in June 1996 providing more leg room, better access and improved sight lines. The Stalls were rebuilt in a four week period in 2000 using steel supports allowing more space underneath for two new bars. 1534 unique pivoting seats were laid – with an addition of 180 prime seats. The Choirs were rebuilt at the same time. The whole building was redecorated in a style that reinforces the buildings Victorian identity.

New carpets were laid in the corridors – specially woven with a border that follows the elliptic curve of the building in the largest single woven design in the world. The works included a major rebuilding of the great organ, originally built by "Father" Henry Willis in 1871 and rebuilt by Harrison & Harrison in 1924 and 1933. The current work was performed by Mander Organs between 2002 and 2004 and the organ is now again the second largest pipe organ in the British Isles with 9,999 pipes in 147 stops. The largest is the Grand Organ in Liverpool Cathedral which has 10,268 pipes. The hall, a Grade I listed building,[9] is an ellipse in plan, with major and minor axes of 83 m (272 ft) and 72 m (236 ft). The great glass and wrought-iron dome roofing the hall is 41 m (135 ft) high.

It was originally designed with a capacity for 8,000 people and has accommodated as many as 9,000 (although modern safety restrictions mean that the maximum permitted capacity is now 5,544 including standing in the Gallery). 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. Proceeding anti-clockwise from the north side the sixteen subjects of the frieze are: (1) Various Countries of the World bringing in their Offerings to the Exhibition of 1851; (2) Music; (3) Sculpture; (4) Painting; (5) Princes, Art Patrons and Artists; (6) Workers in Stone; (7) Workers in Wood and Brick; (8) Architecture; (9) The Infancy of the Arts and Sciences; (10) Agriculture; (11) Horticulture and Land Surveying; (12) Astronomy and Navigation; (13) A Group of Philosophers, Sages and Students; (14) Engineering; (15) The Mechanical Powers; and (16) Pottery and Glassmaking.

Above the frieze is an inscription in 12 in (300 mm) terracotta letters that combine historical fact and Biblical quotations: "This hall was erected for the advancement of the arts and sciences and works of industry of all nations in fulfilment of the intention of Albert Prince Consort. The site was purchased with the proceeds of the Great Exhibition of the year MDCCCLI. The first stone of the Hall was laid by Her Majesty Queen Victoria on the twentieth day of May MDCCCLXVII and it was opened by Her Majesty the Twenty Ninth of March in the year MDCCCLXXI. Thine O Lord is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty. For all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine. The wise and their works are in the hand of God. Glory be to God on high and on earth peace." Since its opening by Queen Victoria on 29 March 1871, the Royal Albert Hall has played host to over 150,000 different events and has been affectionately titled "The Nation's Village Hall".

The first concert at the Hall was Arthur Sullivan's cantata, On Shore and Sea, which was performed on 1 May 1871. Many events are promoted by the Royal Albert Hall themselves, whilst Raymond Gubbay promotes over 70 events a year, having brought a range of events since the early 1970s, including opera, ballet and classical music. Some events include classical and rock concerts, conferences, ballroom dancing, poetry recitals, education, motor shows, marathons, ballet, opera and circus shows. It has hosted sporting events, including boxing, wrestling (including the first Sumo wrestling tournament to be held in London as well as UFC 38 (the first UFC event to be held in the UK) and tennis. Royal Albert Hall London > kensington and earls court > royal albert hall Royal Albert Hall The Royal Albert Hall is one of London's most treasured and prestigious concert halls located in South Kensington with its main entrance facing Sir Gilbert Scott's Albert Memorial amongst the serene landscapes of Kensington Gardens. The hall was opened by Queen Victoria in 1871 to fulfil the vision of Prince Albert (Queen Victoria's..

Read more The Royal Albert Hall is one of London's most treasured and prestigious concert halls located in South Kensington with its main entrance facing Sir Gilbert Scott's Albert Memorial amongst the serene landscapes of Kensington Gardens. The hall was opened by Queen Victoria in 1871 to fulfil the vision of Prince Albert (Queen Victoria's consort) to promote the Arts and Sciences. Famous for the annual summer season of Henry Wood Promenade Concerts since their inception in 1895, The Royal Albert Hall hosts over 350 performances incuding classical concerts, rock and pop, ballet and opera, tennis, award ceremonies, school and community events, charity performances and lavish banquets. The Hall is nicknamed ‘The Albertopolis’ by Londoners and was designed by Captain Fowke, (1823-65), a talented military engineer and inventor as well as self-taught architect. It stretches along the Exhibition Road showcasing fine British Architectural talent with Classical details in brick and terracotta encased within its Renaissance rotunda constructed from iron to resemble a giant spider web.

Address: Kensington Gore, London Earls Court Earls Court Serviced Apartments give guests the benefit of a suburban central location as well as the ability to easily take advantage of scenic retreats at Kensington Gardens and Holland Park. In fact, the whole area is dotted with well-kept private gardens.. High Street Kensington High Street Kensington Serviced Apartments are situated just off the thriving Kensington High Street and are within a five minute walk to the tube station for quick and easy links to the inner-city areas. This vibrant region of London is scattered with royal residences and prestigious.. West Kensington West Kensington Serviced Apartments are well suited for guests attending events at the Earls Court or Olympia Exhibition Centres as they both are within walking distance. The main artery of the neighbourhood is North End Road which stretched from Olympia down to Fulham and is lined with a myriad of.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: West Kensington Pets Allowed Washing Machine* Barons Court Apartments are located just one minute walk away from Barons Court tube station in the heart of the Earls Court area of London.

The immediate area has local shops and convenience stores, but for a wider selection, walk towards Hammersmith's bustling King Street, which is also home.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Washing Machine* Luggage Room Chelsea Cloisters Apartments are set in Chelsea just minutes from Sloane Square and the fashionable Kings Road with access to a superb variety of shopping, dining, art, culture and entertainment. Knightsbridge and South Kensington are only a short walk away and attractions like the world famous Harrods.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: Earls Court Twin Beds* Balcony/Patio* Longridge Road Apartments are located around the corner from Earls Court Station with plenty of shops, restaurants, cafes, supermarkets and local amenities nearby. The Olympia Exhibition Centre is but a short walk away and nearby attractions include the Royal Albert Hall and three of the most..

Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Balcony/Patio* Luggage Room Marlborough Town House is situated a few minutes from South Kensington tube station, one of London's upmarket neighbourhoods and home to some of the world's best museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum and The Natural History Museum. It is very central and well connected by transport links,.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: West Kensington Washing Machine* Balcony/Patio* West Brompton Apartments are located in Earls Court right next to the Olympia Exhibition Centre and within easy access of the eclectic mix of local shops, restaurants and bars in the area. Ideal for those on a business trip or those visiting London for a holiday, these apartments have easy.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available.

The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: West Kensington Views* Balcony/Patio* West Kensington Apartments are situated near Earls Court overlooking the private sporting and tennis club, The Queen's Club. Ideal for both business and leisure stays, these apartments benefit from a close proximity to Olympia Exhibition Centre, Hammersmith and Chiswick as well as South Kensington,.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Twin Beds* Balcony/Patio* Harrington Gardens Apartments sit in the midst of Kensington's fine eateries and elegant garden squares and enjoy a close proximity to top London attractions like the Victoria & Albert Museum, The Natural History Museum, Science Museum and the Royal Albert Hall. You can also enjoy the splendid.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings.

Location: South Kensington Washing Machine* Balcony/Patio* 3 Harrington Gardens Apartments are located on an idyllic tree lined street in the beautiful, prosperous area of South Kensington. Set in a recently renovated period building, these apartments are within walking distance of the exceptional restaurants and grand garden squares that Kensington has to.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Penthouses* Balcony/Patio* 7-8 Manson Place Apartments are set in the desirable South Kensington neighbourhood with a great choice of trendy shops, restaurants, cafes and local amenities just around the corner. The exclusive Knightsbridge & Chelsea area is a short walk away with famous stores like Harrods & Harvey Nichols.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Balcony/Patio* Luggage Room Ashburn Court Apartments enjoy a prestigious Kensington address and are surrounded by a fine selection of nearby cafes, restaurants, boutiques and local amenities.

Kensington Gardens, Kensington Palace, the Royal Albert Hall and world famous museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Twin Beds* Balcony/Patio* Cheval Harrington Court sits right in the heart of South Kensington, one of London's most prestigious addresses, also home to world-renowned museums like Victoria & Albert Museum, Natural History Museum and the Science Museum. There is a trendy array of surrounding bars, restaurants, cafes.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Twin Beds* Luggage Room Citadines South Kensington are surrounded by charming period properties, historic buildings and a fashionable selection of boutiques, restaurants, bars and cafes. The prestigious Knightsbridge and Chelsea neighbourhoods are just around the corner and famous attractions like the Victoria & Albert..

Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Twin Beds* Balcony/Patio* Cornwall Gardens Apartments are situated in the heart of Kensington and are placed within minutes from the famous Victoria & Albert Museum and Natural History Museum. The exclusive Knightsbridge and Chelsea neighbourhoods are just around the corner and the bustling West End and Oxford Street is.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: Earls Court Twin Beds* Balcony/Patio* Courtfield Gardens Apartments are nestled in the heart of Kensington, a short walk from two very well connected tube stations, Earls Court and Gloucester Road. It is set in a beautiful period property, overlooking a peaceful garden square in a prestigious locality. From here you are only a few minutes.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings.

Location: South Kensington Pets Allowed Washing Machine* Cromwell Road One Apartments are located in the popular area of South Kensington within minutes of Gloucester road and South Kensington tube stations. The Victoria and Albert Museum, Science Museum and Natural History Museum are all within walking distance while the stylish areas of Knightsbridge,.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: High Street Kensington Washing Machine* Balcony/Patio* Fraser Residence Prince of Wales are beautifully presented within a 19th century Victorian building in the prestigious Kensington neighbourhood. Kensington Palace and the splendid Kensington Gardens are across the road and nearby attractions include Royal Albert Hall, Victoria & Albert Museum.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Views* Balcony/Patio* Fraser Suites Queens Gate are situated in South Kensington, just a five minute walk from the tube station and close to popular attractions like the Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum and the Royal Albert Hall.

The neighbouhood is known for being home to several museums and is a great.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: Earls Court Wi-Fi Washing Machine* Knaresborough Apartments are located in the heart of the prestigious Kensington area and enjoy a close proximity to attractions like Kensington Palace, Royal Albert Hall, Victoria & Albert Museum. Earls Court Station is only a few minutes away and a bustling variety of shops, multi-cuisine restaurants,.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Balcony/Patio* Luggage Room LAK Serviced Apartments lie in the heart of Kensington's bustling Gloucester Road district with superb transport connections, eateries, things to see and do and access to the top shopping and business districts of the city. to all parts of the city and beyond via the underground station..

Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: High Street Kensington Views* Balcony/Patio* Monarch House Apartments are located in Kensington within a private gated development on High Street Kensington. The building features a 24 hour front desk reception, daily housekeeping service, CCTV security, private car parking and landscaped communal gardens, offering a relaxing atmosphere in the.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: Earls Court Wi-Fi Washing Machine* Nevern Apartments offer a prime Kensington address near Earls Court station just moments from a vibrant choice of restaurants, cafes, shops and local amenities. Central London is within easy reach and nearby attractions include the Olympia Exhibitions Centre, Kensington Palace, Victoria and Albert.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings.

Location: Earls Court Twin Beds* Luggage Room No.1 The Mansions are located in the bustling Earls Court district which is a great base for its excellent transport connections and huge variety of shops, restaurants and local amenities. This area is also loved for its period characteristics, quaint garden squares, expensive real estate and superb.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: West Kensington Wi-Fi Washing Machine* North End Road Apartments are set near West Kensington Station within walking distance of Earls Court and West Brompton. Right on your doorstep are Waitrose and Tesco supermarkets, and a few minutes away you will find Thai, Turkish and Chinese restaurants as well as a few cafes and convenience stores... Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Washing Machine* Balcony/Patio* Point West Apartments are set in a popular residential block in Kensington, across the road from Gloucester Road tube station.

It a short walk from the fantastic museums of Cromwell Road - Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum and The Science Museum and within easy reach from the beautiful.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Washing Machine* Luggage Room Queensgate Court Apartments are located in the prestigious South Kensington area within walking distance of Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and the affluent Knightsbridge. Take a stroll to the Royal Albert Hall to take in a performance or seek out some culture in the popular museums of Museum Lane before.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Washing Machine* Luggage Room Sloane Comfort Apartments lie in the cultural quarters of South Kensington, a district loved for its many museums - Victoria and Albert Museum. Natural History Museum, Science Museum - that showcase a truly unimaginable compilation of art, history, fashion, science, nature and other amazing treasures..

Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: Earls Court Wi-Fi Washing Machine* Templeton Place Apartments are set around the corner from Earls Court station with a prestigious SW5 postcode near plenty of local amenities. The Earls Court Road, a few steps away is lined with restaurants serving food from around the globe, traditional pubs, coffee houses with homemade fare and.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Balcony/Patio* Luggage Room 130 Queen's Gate Apartments are situated in South Kensington close to popular attractions like the Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum and the Royal Albert Hall. Plenty of local amenities are around the corner and nearby transport links offer easy access to the rest of the city making.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings.

Location: South Kensington Views* Balcony/Patio* Cheval Gloucester Park Apartments enjoy an attractive Kensington address moments from top attractions like the Victoria & Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, Kensington Palace and Royal Albert Hall. Acclaimed for its high levels of service and facilities, these luxurious homes are ideal for.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: High Street Kensington Washing Machine* Balcony/Patio* Cheval Hyde Park Gate Apartments overlook the beautiful Hyde Park gardens and are set within a stunning Victorian style building in Kensington. The vivacious West End district is only moments away and the stylish shops, restaurants, bars and cafes within the fashionable neighbourhoods of Knightsbridge.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings.

Location: High Street Kensington Penthouses* Balcony/Patio* Thorney Court Apartments boast exceptional views of Kensington Palace and Gardens and enjoy an attractive Kensington address just a short stroll away from top attractions like Kensington Palace, Royal Albert Hall, Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum. Benefitting from an excellent.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings. Location: South Kensington Daily Housekeeping Washing Machine* Fraser Suites Kensington gracefully sit across a 2.5 acre private garden square in South Kensington and enjoy access to Kensington and Chelsea's fine shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. Famous attractions such as the Victoria & Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, Royal Albert Hall, Kensington.. Check-in-London awards a property a rating between 3 to 5 badges based on the standard, range of amenities, services and facilities available. The ratings are similar to hotel style ratings.

Location: High Street Kensington Washing Machine* Balcony/Patio* Milestone Hotel and Apartments are situated just off High Street Kensington around the corner from a fashionable array of shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and holistic supermarkets like Wholefoods. Kensington Gardens is only steps away with lush greenery, picturesque walkways and plenty of recreational.. Bupa Cromwell Hospital Location: Kensington & Earls Court The Bupa Cromwell Hospital, located within the Earls Court and South Kensington area, has gained international renown for its state-of-the-art facilities and excellent patient care. Treatment is offered for both adults and children ranging from outpatient services to complex surgeries. The hospital.. Design Museum Location: Kensington & Earls Court The Design Museum first opened its doors on the South Bank of the River Thames but moved to Kensington in 2016. It features a broad range of international, modern and contemporary design exhibtions and artifacts that celebrate everyday living from the 20th and 21st centuries. If you are visiting.. Kensington Gardens Location: Kensington & Earls Court Kensington Gardens is one of the Royal Parks of Central London, home to Kensington Palace and the splendid Italian Gardens.

The gardens were once the private gardens of Kensington Palace and are spread across a distance of 275 acres set towards the left of Hyde Park beyond the Serpentine Lake. The.. Kensington Palace Location: Kensington & Earls Court Kensington Palace is set amidst the serene landscapes of Kensington Gardens and has been a royal residence for over 300 years. Address: Kensington, London Nearest Station: High Street Kensington Natural History Museum Location: Kensington & Earls Court The Natural History Museum in South Kensington features one of the largest natural history collections in the world. With over 70 million specimens across the fields of Botany, Entomology, Mineralogy, Palaeontology and Zoology, the museum features hundreds of exciting and interactive exhibits expanding.. Olympia Exhibition Centre Location: Kensington & Earls Court London Olympia Exhibition Centre is one of London's main multipurpose venues for exhibitions, conference meetings, public and corporate events and live music. Erected in 1885 by Andrew Handyside of Derby, it covered an area of 4 acres (16,000 m2). The Grand Hall, 450 feet (140 m) in length, by..

Science Museum Location: Kensington & Earls Court The Science Museum was founded in 1857 and is located in South Kensington near the National History Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. This museum is one of London's most popular tourist attractions and is one of the most interactive museums in the city with lots of hand-on exhibits and.. Victoria and Albert Museum Location: Kensington & Earls Court Named after Prince Albert and Queen Victoria, the V&A Museum was founded in 1852, and has since grown to now cover 12.5 acres (51,000 m2) and 145 galleries. The Victoria and Albert Museum is one of the greatest museums for art and design in the world with a collection that spans over 3000 years.. Royal Albert Hall, London | OpenBuildings Royal Albert Hall, London Our community will learn because of you. References Wikipedia , licensed under the GFDL Suggestions View original size Report The Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall situated in the South Kensington area of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, London, England, best known for holding the annual summer Proms concerts since 1941.

The Royal Albert Hall is one of the UK's most treasured and distinctive buildings, recognisable all over the world. Since its opening by Queen Victoria in 1871, the world's leading artists from every kind of performance genre have appeared on its stage. It also hosts the annual graduation ceremony of the renowned Imperial College London. Each year it hosts more than 350 performances including classical concerts, rock and pop, ballet and opera, tennis, award ceremonies, community events, charity performances and lavish banquets. The hall was originally supposed to have been called The Central Hall of Arts and Sciences, but the name was changed by Queen Victoria to Royal Albert Hall of Arts and Sciences when laying the foundation stone as a dedication to her deceased husband and consort Prince Albert. It forms the practical part of a national memorial to the Prince Consort – the decorative part is the Albert Memorial directly to the north in Kensington Gardens, now separated from the Hall by the heavy traffic along Kensington Gore. History In 1851, the Great Exhibition was held in Hyde Park, London, for which the so-called Crystal Palace was built.

The exhibition was a great success and led Prince Albert, the Prince Consort, to propose that a permanent series of facilities be built in the area for the enlightenment of the public. Progress on the scheme was slow and in 1861 Prince Albert died, without having seen his ideas come to fruition. However, a memorial was proposed for Hyde Park, with a Great Hall opposite. The proposal was approved and the site was purchased with some of the profits from the Exhibition. Once the remaining funds had been raised, in April 1867 Queen Victoria signed the Royal Charter of the Corporation of the Hall of Arts and Sciences which was to operate the Hall and on 20 May, laid the foundation stone. The hall was designed by civil engineers Captain Francis Fowke and Major-General Henry Y.D. Scott of the Royal Engineers and built by Lucas Brothers. The designers were heavily influenced by ancient amphitheatres, but had also been exposed to the ideas of Gottfried Semper while he was working at the South Kensington Museum. The recently opened Cirque d'Hiver in Paris was seen in the contemporary press as the design to outdo.

The hall was constructed mainly of Fareham Red brick, with terra cotta block decoration made by Gibbs and Canning Limited of Tamworth. The dome (designed by Rowland Mason Ordish) on top was made of wrought iron and glazed. There was a trial assembly made of the iron framework of the dome in Manchester, then it was taken apart again and transported to London via horse and cart. When the time came for the supporting structure to be removed from the dome after re-assembly in situ, only volunteers remained on site in case the structure dropped. It did drop – but only by five-eighths of an inch. The hall was scheduled to be completed by Christmas Day 1870 and the Queen visited a few days beforehand to inspect. She was reported as saying "It looks like the British Constitution". The official opening ceremony of the Royal Albert Hall was on 29 March 1871. After a welcoming speech by Edward, the Prince of Wales, Queen Victoria was too overcome to speak, so the Prince had to announce that "The Queen declares this Hall is now open". A concert followed, when the Hall's acoustic problems became immediately apparent.

Engineers first attempted to solve the acoustical problem by suspending a canvas awning below the dome. This helped and also provided relief to concertgoers from the sun. A 1949 attempt removed the awning and replaced the glass dome with aluminium panels; however, the acoustics were not properly tackled until 1969 when a series of large fibreglass acoustic diffusing discs (commonly referred to as "mushrooms" or "flying saucers") were installed below the ceiling to reduce the notorious echo. It used to be said that the hall was the only place where a British composer could be sure of hearing his work twice. Initially lit by gas, the hall contained a special system where its thousands of gas jets were lit within ten seconds. Though it was demonstrated as early as 1873 in the Hall, full electric lighting was not installed until 1888. During an early trial when a partial installation was made, one disgruntled patron wrote to The Times newspaper declaring it to be "a very ghastly and unpleasant innovation".

In 1936, the Hall was the scene of a giant rally celebrating the British Empire, the occasion being the centenary of Joseph Chamberlain's birth. In October 1942, the Hall suffered minor damage during World War II bombing but was left mostly untouched as German pilots used the distinctive structure as a landmark. Renovation and redevelopment Between 1996 and 2004 the Royal Albert Hall underwent a programme of renovation and development supported by a £20 million (roughly $32 million US) grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to enable it to meet the demands of the next century of events and performances. Thirty "discrete projects" were designed and supervised by BDP without disrupting events. These projects included improving ventilation to the auditorium, more bars and restaurants, new improved seating, better technical facilities and more modern backstage areas. The largest project was the building of a new south porch – door 12, accommodating a restaurant, new box office and below a new delivery area. Although the exterior of the building was largely unchanged, the south steps leading down to Prince Consort Road were demolished to allow construction of an underground vehicle access and accommodation for 3 HGVs carrying all the equipment brought by shows.

The steps were then reconstructed around a new south porch on the same scale and in the same style as the three pre-existing porches: these works were undertaken by Taylor Woodrow Construction. The original steps featured in early scenes of 1965 film The Ipcress File. On 4 June 2004, the project received the Europa Nostra Award for remarkable achievement. The East and West porches were glazed and new bars opened along with ramps to improve disabled access. Internally the Circle was rebuilt in four weeks in June 1996 providing more leg room, better access and improved sight lines. The Stalls were rebuilt in a four week period in 2000 using steel supports allowing more space underneath for two new bars. 1534 unique pivoting seats were laid – with an addition of 180 prime seats. The Choirs were rebuilt at the same time. The whole building was redecorated in a style that reinforces the buildings Victorian identity. New carpets were laid in the corridors – specially woven with a border that follows the elliptic curve of the building in the largest single woven design in the world.

The works included a major rebuilding of the great organ, originally built by "Father" Henry Willis in 1871 and rebuilt by Harrison & Harrison in 1924 and 1933. The current work was performed by Mander Organs between 2002 and 2004 and the organ is now again the second largest pipe organ in the British Isles with 9,999 pipes in 147 stops. Liverpool Cathedral has 10,268 pipes. Design The hall, a Grade I listed building, is an ellipse in plan, with major and minor axes of 83 m (272 ft) and 72 m (236 ft). The great glass and wrought-iron dome roofing the hall is 41 m (135 ft) high. It was originally designed with a capacity for 8,000 people and has accommodated as many as 9,000 (although modern safety restrictions mean that the maximum permitted capacity is now 5,544 including standing in the Gallery).

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. Proceeding anti-clockwise from the north side the sixteen subjects of the frieze are: (1) Various Countries of the World bringing in their Offerings to the Exhibition of 1851; (2) Music; (3) Sculpture; (4) Painting; (5) Princes, Art Patrons and Artists; (6) Workers in Stone; (7) Workers in Wood and Brick; (8) Architecture; (9) The Infancy of the Arts and Sciences; (10) Agriculture; (11) Horticulture and Land Surveying; (12) Astronomy and Navigation; (13) A Group of Philosophers, Sages and Students; (14) Engineering; (15) The Mechanical Powers; and (16) Pottery and Glassmaking.

Above the frieze is an inscription in 12 in (300 mm) terracotta letters that combine historical fact and Biblical quotations: "This hall was erected for the advancement of the arts and sciences and works of industry of all nations in fulfilment of the intention of Albert Prince Consort. The site was purchased with the proceeds of the Great Exhibition of the year MDCCCLI. The first stone of the Hall was laid by Her Majesty Queen Victoria on the twentieth day of May MDCCCLXVII and it was opened by Her Majesty the Twenty Ninth of March in the year MDCCCLXXI. Thine O Lord is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty. For all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine. The wise and their works are in the hand of God. Glory be to God on high and on earth peace." Events Since its opening by Queen Victoria on 29 March 1871, the Royal Albert Hall has played host to over 150,000 different events and has been affectionately titled "The Nation's Village Hall".

The first concert at the Hall was Arthur Sullivan's cantata, On Shore and Sea, which was performed on 1 May 1871. Many events are promoted by the Royal Albert Hall themselves, whilst Raymond Gubbay promotes over 70 events a year, having brought a range of events since the early 1970s, including opera, ballet and classical music. Some events include classical and rock concerts, conferences, ballroom dancing, poetry recitals, education, motor shows, marathons, ballet, opera and circus shows. It has hosted sporting events, including boxing, wrestling (including the first Sumo wrestling tournament to be held in London as well as UFC 38 (the first UFC event to be held in the UK) and tennis. American singer Bob Dylan concluded his world tour by performing two shows on May 26 and 27 1966. It was several years until Dylan toured again. After Sandie Shaw won the 1967 Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, the BBC hosted the 1968 Eurovision Song Contest at the Royal Albert Hall.

Miss World Pageant finals were held at the Royal Albert Hall from 1969 to 1988. Roger Daltrey of The Who has been intimately involved with the Teenage Cancer Trust which holds annual charity concerts at expected to continue until 2012. The American rock band The Killers performed two shows on 5 and 6 July 2009, that were recorded for the DVD Live From The Royal Albert Hall. The DVD was packaged with a CD and was released on 6 November of the same year and earned a rating of five stars and the "best rock dvd of the decade" by Starpulse. Swedish prog-death metal band Opeth also filmed its 20th anniversary DVD In Live Concert at the Royal Albert Hall, covering two sets: its breakthrough album, Blackwater Park, in its entirety, and a chronologically-arranged set of one song from each of its other eight albums. Regular events The BBC Promenade Concerts, known as "The Proms" is a popular annual eight-week summer season of daily classical music concerts and other events held at the Royal Albert Hall.

In 1942, following the destruction of the Queen's Hall in an air raid, the Royal Albert hall was chosen as the new venue for the proms. In 1944 with increased danger to the hall, part of the proms were held in the Bedford Corn Exchange. Following the end of World War II the proms continued in the Royal Albert Hall and have done so annually in summer since then. The event was founded in 1895, and now each season consists of over 70 concerts, in addition to a series of events at other venues across the United Kingdom on the last night. In 2009, the total number of concerts reached 100 for the first time. Jiří Bělohlávek described The Proms as "the world's largest and most democratic musical festival" of all such events in the world of classical music festivals. Proms is short for promenade concerts, a term which arose from the original practice of audience members promenading, or strolling, in some areas of the concert hall during the concert.

Proms concert-goers, particularly those who stand, are sometimes described as "Promenaders", but are most commonly referred to as "Prommers". The Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance, is held annually the day before Remembrance Sunday. The Royal Albert Hall is also used annually by the Royal College of Art and Imperial College London for graduation ceremonies. Kingston University also held its graduation ceremonies at the Royal Albert Hall until 2008, but have since relocated to the new Rose Theatre, Kingston upon its completion. Since 1998 the English National Ballet has had several specially staged arena summer seasons in partnership with the Royal Albert Hall and Raymond Gubbay. These include Strictly Gershwin, June 2008 and 2011, Swan Lake in-the-round, June 2002, 2004, 2007 and 2010, Romeo & Juliet (Deane), June 2001 and 2005 and The Sleeping Beauty, April – June 2000. Regular performers Eric Clapton has become synonymous with the Royal Albert Hall, as it has played host to his concerts almost annually for over 20 years.

It was also the venue for his band Cream's farewell concerts in 1968 and reunion shows in 2005. Clapton has cited it as his favourite venue to play in the world. He also instigated the Concert for George, which was held at the Royal Albert Hall on 29 November 2002 to pay tribute to Clapton's life-long friend, former Beatle George Harrison. Many of Clapton's DVD releases were recorded live at The Royal Albert Hall, e.g. 24 nights (CD and DVD), Cream farewell, Cream reunion (CD and DVD) and Concert for George. Shirley Bassey has often sung at the Royal Albert Hall, usually as a special guest at large events. In 2007, Bassey performed in Fashion Rocks in aid of the Prince's Trust. On 30 March 2011, she sang at a gala celebrating the 80th birthday of Mikhail Gorbachev. She also performed at the Classical Brit Awards in May 2011, singing Goldfinger in tribute to the recently deceased composer John Barry.

On 20 June 2011, Bassey returned to perform Diamonds Are Forever and Goldfinger, accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, as the climax to the memorial concert for John Barry. Trivia A famous and widely bootlegged concert by Bob Dylan at the Free Trade Hall in Manchester on 17 May 1966 was mistakenly labelled the "Royal Albert Hall Concert". In 1998, Columbia Records released an official recording, The Bootleg Series Vol. 4: Bob Dylan Live 1966, The "Royal Albert Hall" Concert, that maintains the erroneous title, but does include details of the actual concert location. Dylan actually did close his European tour on 26 and 27 May of that year; these were his last concerts before Dylan got into a motorcycle accident and became a recluse for a brief period of time. Another concert that was mislabelled as being at the Royal Albert Hall was by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). An album by CCR entitled The Royal Albert Hall Concert was released in 1980. When Fantasy Records discovered that the show on the album actually took place at the Oakland Coliseum, it retitled the album The Concert.

The Beatles song "A Day In The Life" mentions the Royal Albert Hall, as does the character Nowhere Man in the Beatles' movie Yellow Submarine. Transport links Prince Albert, Queen Victoria's Stylish German Husband By Robert McNamara Prince Albert was a member of German royalty who married Britain's Queen Victoria and helped to spark an era of technological innovation as well as personal style. Albert, who had been born as a prince in Germany, was initially seen by the British as an interloper in British society. But his intelligence, interest in new inventions, and capability in diplomatic affairs made him a respected figure in Britain. Albert, who would eventually hold the title Prince Consort, became known for his interest in helping society improve in the mid-1800s. He was the great champion of one of the world's great technology events, the Great Exhibition of 1851 , which introduced many inventions to the public. He died, tragically, in 1861, leaving Victoria a widow whose trademark attire would become the black of mourning. Just prior to his death he served an important role by helping to dissuade the British government from a military conflict with the United States.

continue reading below our video Profile of Queen Victoria Early Life of Prince Albert Albert was born on August 26, 1819 in Rosenau, Germany. He was the second son of the Duke of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, and was greatly influenced by his uncle Leopold, who became the king of Belgium in 1831. As a teenager Albert traveled to Britain and met the Princess Victoria, who was his cousin and nearly the same age as Albert. They were friendly but Victoria was not overly impressed with the young Albert, who was shy and awkward. The British were interested in finding a suitable husband for the young princess who was to ascend to the throne. British political tradition decreed that a monarch could not marry a commoner, so a British suitor was out of the question. Victoria's future husband would have to come from European royalty. Albert's relatives on the continent, including King Leopold of Belgium, essentially steered the young man toward being Victoria's husband. In 1839, two years after Victoria became Queen, Albert returned to England and proposed marriage. The Queen accepted.

Marriage of Albert and Victoria Queen Victoria married Albert on February 10, 1840 at St. James Palace in London. At first the British public and the aristocracy thought little of Albert. While he was born of European royalty, his family was not wealthy or powerful. And he was often portrayed as someone marrying for prestige or money. Albert was actually quite intelligent and was devoted to helping his wife serve as monarch. And over time he became an indispensable aid to the queen, advising her on political and diplomatic affairs. Victoria and Albert had nine children, and by all accounts their marriage was very happy. They loved being together, sometimes sketching or listening to music. The royal family was portrayed as the ideal family, and setting an example for the British public was considered a major part of their role. Albert also contributed to a tradition familiar to us today. His German family would bring trees into the house at Christmas, and he brought that tradition to Britain. The Christmas tree at Windsor Castle created a fashion in Britain which was carried over to America. Career of Prince Albert In the early years of the marriage, Albert was frustrated that Victoria did not assign him tasks which he felt were up to his abilities.

He wrote to a friend that he was "only the husband, not the master in the house." Albert busied himself with his interests in music and hunting, and he did eventually become involved in the serious matters of statesmanship. In 1848, when much of Europe was being shaken by revolutionary movement, Albert cautioned that the rights of working people had to be seriously considered. He was a progressive voice at a crucial time. Thanks to Albert's interest in technology, he was the main force behind the Great Exhibition of 1851 , a grand show of science and inventions held at a stunning new edifice in London, the Crystal Palace. The purpose of the exhibition was to showcase how society was being changed for the better by science and technology. It was a stunning success. Throughout the 1850s Albert was often deeply involved in the affairs of state. He was known for clashing with Lord Palmerston, a highly influential British politician who served as foreign minister and also prime minister. In the mid-1850s, when Albert cautioned against the Crimean War , some in Britain accused him of being pro-Russian.

Albert Was Given the Royal Title of Prince Consort While Albert was influential, he had not, for the first 15 years of the marriage to Queen Victoria, received a royal title from Parliament. Victoria was disturbed that her husband's actual rank was not clearly defined. In 1857 the official title of Prince Consort was finally bestowed upon Albert by Queen Victoria. Death of Prince Albert In late 1861 Albert was stricken with typhoid fever, a disease which was quite serious though not usually fatal. His habit of overwork may have weakened him, and he suffered greatly from the disease. Hopes for his recovery dimmed, and he died on December 13, 1861. His death came as a shock to the British public, especially as he was only 42 years old. On his deathbed, Albert had been involved in helping to lessen tensions with the United States over an incident at sea. An American naval vessel had stopped a British ship, the Trent, and seized two emissaries from the Confederate government during the early stage of the American Civil War . Some in Britain took the American naval action as a grave insult and wanted to go to the war with the United States.

Albert viewed the United States as a friendly nation to Britain and actively helped steer the British government from what surely would have been a pointless war. Prince Albert Remembered The death of her husband devastated Queen Victoria. Her grief seemed excessive even to people of her own time. Victoria would live as a widow for 40 years, and was always seen wearing only black, which helped create an image of her as a sullen and remote figure. Indeed, the term Victorian often implies a seriousness which is in part due to Victoria's image as someone in deep grief. There is no question that Victoria deeply loved Albert, and after his death he was honored by being entombed in an elaborate mausoleum at Frogmore House, not far from Windsor Castle. After her death, Victoria was entombed beside him. The Royal Albert Hall in London was named in honor of Prince Albert, and his name is also affixed to London's Victoria and Albert Museum. A bridge crossing the Thames, which Albert suggested building in 1860, is also named from him.

SECRET LONDON / Trivia / Post_boxes Tube: Knightsbridge Victoria: Two Slots Look carefully at this box set into the railings by the entrance to the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, and you will notice it has a slot on each side - you can see all the way through. This unique design lets Chelsea Pensioners post their letters even if the Hospital’s gates are locked for the night. Royal Hospital Road SW3 Tube: Sloane Square Victoria: Vertical Slot This 1856 design - 15 years after the first postage stamps - illustrates where the name ‘pillar’ came from with its fluted Doric style. One of only ten survivors with this notable vertical slot, sadly, there are none in London itself. Early boxes were painted green to blend in but people kept walking into them. High Street, Eton Rail: Windsor & Eton Victoria: 1837-1901 Anthony Trollope (later a noted author) came up with the idea of a pillar box but the most famous early design is this hexagonal Penfold, named after the architect who designed it in 1866. There are 150 originals still in use and 100 replicas.

The VR cypher - Victoria Regina – was introduced for the first time. Tube: High Street Kensington George V: 1910-1936 The mystery of George V is why there is no ‘V” in his cypher. In 1924 oval enamel signs were added to some boxes pointing to the nearest post office. Much subject to vandalism and now valuable collectors items, there are few such signs left in the wild. In 1930, King Edward Street saw the first blue airmail box. Prince Of Wales Road NW5 Tube: Kentish Town Edward VIII: 1936 The abdication of Edward VIII left few pillar boxes in his name as, although 161 were made, most were vandalised or had the cypher ground off. There are perhaps 15 left in London. Every pillar box made has a unique key, meaning a postman has to carry a large bunch - note how it scores older boxes. Great North Road N2 Tube: East Finchley George VI: 1936-1952 George VI’s time is notable only for some changes to the design of lampboxes.

Lamp boxes are attached to lampposts or even embedded in a wall, though there are different wall box designs specifically for that. A pillar box is a freestanding box. A letter box is properly a slot for mail, as in our front doors. Vauxhall Street SE11 Tube: Vauxhall Edward VII: 1901-1910 About 6 per cent of UK boxes have the ER VII cypher, which also introduced the crown. The main change is the posting slot in the door to stop mail getting caught up in the top. The aperture was now rainproof, and this same design has continued through the reigns of George V and George VI to the present day. Kennington Lane SE11 Tube: Vauxhall Elizabeth II: 1978-present The ‘National Standard K’ box was designed in 1978 by Tony Gibbs. Modern materials were studied but cast iron remains the best choice for durability. With no cap, the cipher is also recessed, so the boxes can be rolled without damage. This first one was put outside the Royal Albert Hall in 1979.

Prince Consort Road SW7 Tube: South Kensington Elizabeth II: 1952-present The 50 year reign of Queen Elizabeth means that more than half the UK’s 115,000 boxes bear the ER cypher and there are many different styles. The division into ‘First’ and ‘Second Class’ mail dates this one after 1968, though it is well before the rebranding from ‘Post Office’ to ‘Royal Mail’ in 1991. Hyde Park W8

Question: The Royal Albert Hall in London is name after the consort of which monarch?
Answer: Queen Victoria