Set in 196 acres of gorgeous parkland overlooking London, “Ally Pally” as it is affectionately known has a long and fascinating history. Built in 1873 to provide the Victorians with a great environment and recreation centre, it was destroyed by a fire just sixteen days after its opening. 2 years later, a new Palace opened. The BBC made the first public television transmissions from the eastern wing in 1936. Nowadays the Palace is an events and exhibition centre, and also houses an ice rink.