From my lounge window I like to boast that I have a perfect view of ‘the palace’. To my fiends who have never visited me in London they believe I live in a flat facing Buck House – I wish! The palace I refer to is Alexandra Palace (Ally Pally). I won’t go into the history of Ally Pally as anyone can read about it on Google however I want to let you know about what a hidden gem it actually is. Most Londoners know about its existence but Ally Pally is a landmark that attracts mostly locals (unless there is an event being held in the venue).
For me Ally Pally boasts one of the greatest views over the capital. This is one of the most popular locations in the capital for the annual bonfire celebration where the Palace is decorated with a laser light show complete with a spectacular firework display in the park area. What I love about the firework display (and what makes the venue unique) is that visitors are treated to amazing views of the private firework parties taking place on the surrounding estates as well as the organised main event.
I recently attended a tour of the Palace and was astounded that it hides many hidden secrets. One of these is that there is a derelict theatre hidden away at the rear of the ice rink. The theatre has been closed for many years until a few enthusiasts decided to restore it from the ruins. Work has already began to raise money for the restoration. It’s astonishing that people let this beautiful building deteriorate to this condition however I am so happy that it is eventually being restored.
The ice rink brings back happy memories from my early twenties when I clambered up the icy steep hill on New Years Eve in platform shoes to attend a popular club night that had taken over the entire palace. The ice rink had been turned into a cheesy disco and a proved to be a great place to get chatted up! Today the ice rink is still a huge attraction and has a variety of activities taking place daily.
The Palace appears to be catching up with the modern age with all the restorations and improvements even though they are very slow moving. While walking around the deer park I was pleasantly surprised to see a Segway tour in progress in the surrounding park.
Anyone looking for an alternative day out in London then Ally Pally is definitely worth a visit – Come visit the North London gem – Alexandra Palace – The People’s Palace!
