Not only a familiar landmark, but also a working theatre and concert hall. Named after Prince Albert, whose idea it was to have a multi purpose venue which could hold everything from orchestras to a circus, but he never saw it completed. The building is a beautiful Victorian masterpiece and you get to learn a lot more about it on the guided tours which are available. Although it’s a fascinating tour, we were slightly dissapointed that it doesn’t go “behind the scenes” - instead it mainly focusses on the public areas of the hall. You do get to stand in the private Royal reception room however. Nearest tube: South Kensington and then a 15 minute walk. This is an extract from our free London City Guide.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL
The Royal Albert Hall tour runs every day except Wednesdays from 10.30am to 3.30pm. Sometimes tours are cancelled because of matinees, so check with the hall which tours are running when you want to go and it’s advisable to book advance. An adult tour is £8 (2010 prices) and annoyingly photographs are not allowed inside the building. Whilst we can understand flash photography being banned, the refusal to allow any photography at all seems to us to be more about selling their own pictures! The Royal Albert Hall does occasionally offer a “backstage” tour which does go behind-the-scenes but these are rare. Check here for details. The Royal Albert Hall tour is included in the Great British Heritage Pass.
ADDRESS
Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP
Tel: 0845 401 5045 (in the UK)
MORE ON THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL
Royal Albert Hall website
Wikipedia
Great British Heritage Pass – Includes free entry to the Royal Albert Hall
Hotels near the Royal Albert Hall – Great rates from Hotels.com
More hotels in London – Up to 30% off from Expedia.co.uk
Books on the Royal Albert Hall - Amazon.co.uk
