Hippodrome Circus
Sightseeing attraction | Great Yarmouth | England | United Kingdom
Historical attractions in Great Britain
The Hippodrome Circus in Great Yarmouth, England, is one of the most unique and historically significant attractions in Britain. This iconic circus building, built in 1903, is the last remaining purpose-built circus building in the UK and one of only three in the world with a retractable ring that can transform into a water feature. Great Yarmouth, a traditional coastal town in Norfolk, is proud to host this architectural gem, known as one of the "seven wonders of the British coast," captivating visitors with its spectacular shows and rich history.
Unique circus performances in England
The building was initiated by circus entrepreneur George Gilbert and designed by architect Ralph Scott Cockrill. It is made of solid concrete construction with brick and terracotta cladding, giving it a sturdy yet elegant appearance. The facade features three bays and two towers adorned with intricate Art Nouveau decorations, such as leaf patterns, and a frieze of carved owls. These details give the Hippodrome a timeless beauty that highlights its historical significance. Since 1979, the building has been owned by the Jay family, who have lovingly restored and operated it with dedication. Under the leadership of Peter Jay, his son Jack Jay as ringmaster and producer, and Ben Jay as manager, four major shows are presented annually.
Water performance at Hippodrome Circus
The Hippodrome Circus is known for its diverse and elaborate performances that take place year-round. Major events include the "Easter Pirates Adventure" in spring, the "Summer Spectacular" with its legendary water feature, the "Halloween Spooktacular" in autumn, and the "Christmas Spectacular" in winter. The highlight of many shows is the famous retractable ring, a technical marvel from the building's construction era. During the performance, the circus floor sinks into a deep water tank, from which huge fountains rise and synchronized swimmers provide an impressive show. This unique combination of circus art and water performance makes the Hippodrome an unparalleled experience, setting it apart from traditional circuses.
Family-friendly entertainment in Great Yarmouth
The shows themselves are a mix of international artists, breathtaking acrobatic acts, comedic routines, and visual spectacles. Local legends like Jack Jay and Johnny Mac entertain with their natural humor and improvisational skills, while guest stars from around the world leave audiences in awe with their impressive performances. Highlights often include daring stunts like motorcycle riders in a "Cage of Death" or acrobatic high wire acts that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The intimate atmosphere of the arena, which accommodates about 800 spectators, ensures that every guest feels like part of the show, regardless of their seat.
Visiting circus museum in Great Yarmouth
In addition to performances, the Hippodrome Circus also offers insight into its own history through the attached circus museum. This museum, accessible after shows, displays over a hundred years of memorabilia, including costumes, posters, programs, and props documenting the evolution of circus life in Great Yarmouth. It tells the story of a place that over time has hosted not only circus performances, but also variety shows, film screenings, and even military exercises during wartime. This versatility underscores the cultural significance of the Hippodrome as an integral part of the city.
Deeply rooted in the identity of Great Yarmouth, a town that became a popular seaside resort in the 19th century due to its railway connection, the Hippodrome Circus stands out as a unique attraction that draws visitors from across the UK and beyond. While the beach and piers like Britannia Pier and Wellington Pier represent the classic attractions of the coast, the Hippodrome stands apart with its uniqueness and modern shows of the highest production quality.
