Floral Pavilion

Part of the New Victoria Gardens, built on the site of the old Ham and Egg Parade, opened in 1913. It took the form of an open-air summer theatre. In 1925 the theatre was covered by an iron and glass roof; the stage was raised and tip-up seats were installed. From 1933, shows were broadcast from the Pavilion.

In 1965/7 the theatre was partly rebuilt, a covered roof of metal replacing much of the glass, and it is this form which is seen today. In the auditorium are the wrought-iron pillars supporting the roof which evoke the atmosphere of the sea-side Pavilion. The iron porch is the only 1913 survivor.

A popular theatre with good sightlines, it serves local societies as well as professional use.