Geograph - photograph every grid square

The Hippodrome was built in 1903 as a circus, a function which it has retained throughout its history.
Inside, it retains its original circus ring which is convertible into a water-filled arena, a very rare survival, only 2 others being known worldwide. It is one of only two purpose-built circus buildings remaining in the UK, the other being at Blackpool Tower. The architect was R S Cockrill, son of the then Borough Engineer J W Cockrill, who used terracotta for a number of buildings in the town.
Some of the Art Nouveau decorative detailing is exquisite and appears to derive more from the French school than British styles. Originally the main façade could be seen from the sea front, but unfortunately later buildings have been constructed in that space so the full impact of the frontage cannot be properly experienced. Fortunately, it has not been encumbered by modern attachments to the frontage. Listed Grade II*.