Royal Albert Hall
Kensington Gore, London SW7

The Royal Albert Hall was planned by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria, inspired by Roman amphitheatres he had seen in Europe.  Albert's original concept was for an ovoid auditorium for 30,000 people but money constraints meant that the hall was reduced to seat just over 5,000.  Designed by engineer, Francis Fowke, the hall was completed in 1871. 

The red brick and terracotta building is topped by an iron and glass dome, and a frieze representing arts and science, runs around the exterior.  Originally to be called the Hall of Arts and Science Queen Victoria changed it to the Royal Albert Hall in memory of Prince Albert.

This much-loved London landmark, the Albert Hall is used for a variety of events, from fashion and pop concerts to wrestling. 

From mid-July to mid-September it is devoted solely to the Sir Henry Wood Promenade Concerts or 'Proms', that are organized by the BBC and feature the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra  These concerts were originally held in the Queen's Hall, Langham Place, but moved to the Albert Hall after the Queen's Hall was destroyed in the Blitz. 

The 'Proms' have a varied programme including modern symphonic music and classics.  Seats are removed from in front of the stage, leaving an open space in which members of  the audience either stand or sit on the floor.  The very English 'Last Night of the Proms' has become a national institution and tickets sell out weeks in advance.  Tickets for the 'Proms' can be bought on the day of the performance but long queues build up.

Tel: 020 7589 8212 ( Box Office) 020 7589 3203 (General Number)