Hackney Empire
Hackney Empire tours
Hackney Empire is the largest theatre in East London, and has had a fascinating history, from the building's creation in 1901 to its glorious present-day restoration and refurbishment. It has had many lives, from variety theatre and TV studio to bingo hall and the home of alternative comedy. This is a unique opportunity to glimpse the secret backstage world, and hear stories from the theatre's astounding past.
Tours not curently taking place.
How to get there
Hackney Empire is located on Mare Street, adjacent to Hackney Town Hall and is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest train is Hackney Central (2 mins walk from the Empire) which has regular trains linking to the Tube, with direct interchanges at Highbury & Islington (Victoria Line), Stratford (Central Line) and West Hampstead and Canada Water (Jubilee Line). Bethnal Green (Central Line) is a short bus ride away. Hackney Downs and London Fields train stations are 10 minutes walk away with trains going into Liverpool Street.
Hackney Empire is located within a controlled parking zone.
For further information please see the theatre’s website
Nearby
With over 48 theatres in the West End alone, London provides visitors with a wealth of diverse theatre architecture both new and old, from major playhouses to small music halls.
The following London theatres currently offer tours:
Normansfield Theatre
Old Vic
Royal Opera House
Shakespeare’s Globe
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Theatre Royal Haymarket
Wilton’s Music Hall
Hackney Empire
291 Mare Street
London
E8 1EJ
England
Great Britian
Tel: +44 (0)208 985 2424
Hackney Empire was built as a music hall in 1901, designed by celebrated theatre architect, Frank Matcham. While it served as music hall in the early 20th century, the stage of the Hackney Empire saw legends such as Charlie Chaplin, WC Fields, Stanley Holloway, Stan Laurel and Marie Lloyd. The theatre is one the best Matcham theatres in London. Inside the theatre contains an ornate vestibule and double staircase with marbled finishes. The opulent auditorium, seating 1,000, contains three balconies with a marble proscenium arch.
See The Theatres Trust Theatres Database ID 819 Hackney Empire
See also Arthur Lloyd Music Hall and History Website
