The Roundhouse in London is a well-known venue that has hosted many events over the years. But what was it historically used for? Let’s take a closer look.
The Origins of the Roundhouse
The Roundhouse was originally built in 1846 as a locomotive engine shed by the London and North Western Railway. Its circular design allowed for easy access and maintenance of steam locomotives. The building had a capacity of up to 50 engines, and its impressive size made it one of the largest buildings in London at the time.
The Roundhouse as a Warehouse
In the early 20th century, the Roundhouse was converted into a warehouse for various goods, including whiskey barrels and automobiles. It remained in use as a warehouse until World War II, when it was badly damaged by bombing.
The Roundhouse as a Performance Space
After World War II, the Roundhouse remained unused for many years. However, in the 1960s, it was taken over by a group of artists who saw its potential as a performance space. They began hosting events there, including music concerts and theatre performances.
Music at the Roundhouse
The Roundhouse quickly became known as one of London’s premier music venues. In its early years, it hosted concerts by legendary musicians such as Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, The Doors, and Led Zeppelin.
- Jimi Hendrix: Hendrix played two shows at the Roundhouse in February 1967.
- Pink Floyd: Pink Floyd played at the venue several times in 1967 and 1968.
- The Doors: The Doors played their first UK show at the Roundhouse on September 6th, 1968.
- Led Zeppelin: Led Zeppelin played at the Roundhouse in March and April of 1969.
Theatre at the Roundhouse
In addition to music, the Roundhouse also hosted a variety of theatre performances. These included experimental works by groups such as the Living Theatre and the People Show, as well as more mainstream productions.
The Roundhouse Today
Today, the Roundhouse continues to be a popular venue for music and other performances. It has been extensively renovated and now includes state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment. It has hosted events by a wide range of artists, from David Bowie to Jay-Z.
Conclusion
The Roundhouse in London has had a long and varied history. From its origins as a locomotive engine shed to its current incarnation as one of London’s premier performance spaces, it has played an important role in the city’s cultural life. Whether you’re interested in music, theatre, or history, the Roundhouse is definitely worth a visit.
9 Related Question Answers Found
The Tower of London is a historic castle located in central London. It has been a prominent landmark since its construction in the 11th century. Throughout its long history, the Tower served many purposes.
When it comes to buying a house or a property in London, there are different types of properties that you can choose from. One of them is a townhouse, which is a popular choice among the buyers. But have you ever wondered what a townhouse is called in London?
When it comes to the English language, there are many terms that can be confusing and even misleading for non-native speakers. One such term is the London Lavatory. If you’re not from London or the UK, you may be wondering what a London Lavatory is and why it’s called that.
The iconic clock tower in London, which is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, is officially known as the Elizabeth Tower. This impressive structure stands at over 96 meters tall and dominates the skyline of Westminster. The History of the Elizabeth Tower
The Elizabeth Tower was constructed between 1843 and 1859 and was originally named the Clock Tower.
London City Airport is a popular airport that serves the city of London. It is located in the Royal Docks area of London, just a few miles away from Canary Wharf. The airport was first opened in 1987, and since then, it has become an important hub for business travelers, as well as for tourists who want to explore the city.
London is famous for its numerous theatres, each with its own unique history and charm. However, there is one theatre that stands out above the rest – the magnificent Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. This iconic venue has a rich history and continues to be a popular attraction for both tourists and locals alike.
The Royal London Hospital is one of the most famous medical institutions in the world. It is located in Whitechapel, East London, and is known for its exceptional healthcare services. The hospital has a long and rich history that dates back to the 18th century when it was first established.
If you’re someone who’s interested in the healthcare industry, you may have heard of the London Hospital. But what is it called now? Let’s explore this question and learn more about this prestigious institution.
London, the city that has been at the forefront of art and culture for centuries. It has been a hub for theatre enthusiasts and performers alike. The city is home to some of the most famous theatres in the world.
