Alexandra Park opened in 1863. A decade later, Alexandra Palace opened, commonly known as Ally Pally. Alexandra Palace is a historical venue: it's survived two fires, hosted the first ever television broadcast and has seen millions of people experience extraordinary events for over the last 140 years.

When the Alexandra Palace Theatre opened in 1875, crowds of up to 3,000 gathered to see the latest pantomimes, ballets and dramas. But, it was difficult to keep theatregoers visiting north London, instead heading for the bright lights of the West End. The theatre has been used as a cinema, a music hall and even a chapel.