”ASTLEY'S AMPHITHEATRE, WESTMINSTER BRIDGE ROAD, a theatre and circus, under the management of Mr. Batty, well conducted and well patronized, and the fourth building of the same nature on the same site. The first amphitheatre on this spot was a mere temporary erection of deal boards, built (1774) by Philip Astley, a light-horseman in the 15th or General Elliot's regiment. It stood on what was then an open piece of ground in St. George's Fields, through which the New Cut ran, and to which a halfpenny hatch led. The price of admission to the space without the railing of the ride was 6d, and Astley himself, said to have been the handsomest man in England, was the chief performer, assisted by a drum, two fifes, and a clown of the name of Porter. At first it was an open area. In 1780, it was converted into a covered amphitheatre, and divided into pit, boxes, and gallery. In 1786, it was newly fitted up, and called ‘The Royal Grove,’ and in 1792. ‘The Royal Saloon, or Astley's Amphitheatre.’ The entertainment, at first, was only a day exhibition of horsemanship. Transparent fireworks, slack rope vaulting, Egyptian Pyramids, tricks on chairs, tumbling, &c. were subsequently added, the ride enlarged, and the house opened in the evening. It is now both theatre and amphitheatre. Astley's amphitheatre has been thrice destroyed by fire - in 1794, in 1803, and in 1841. […] For the equestrian performances in the circus (the leading attraction) you need not go before 9 at night” (178-9).

p15.

The information provided within this source is similar to that given within London in all its Glory, also published by H.G. Clarke, & Co.


In addition, this source also contains the following:

“The exterior, which has no architectural pretensions; is ornamented with a portico, surmounted by the royal arms. The auditory is of an elliptical form, neatly ornamented. Between the pit and the stage, is the circular ride, in which are exhibited the extraordinary performances of the most talented male and female equestrians of the day, enlivened by the drolleries of Mr. Barry, the celebrated clown to the ring. Under the management of Ducrow. unrivalled for his fearless and graceful exploits in the circle, this house became distinguished in its way above all others in Europe. The stud of trained horses, all beautiful animals, exhibiting a wonderful degree of sagacity, and obedience to the riders’ will, exceeded fifty in number, and the stable now kept by Mr. Batty, the present proprietor and manager, is said to be in no way inferior. Besides the equestrian performances, pantomimes, burlettas, rope-dancing, feats of strength or agility are also exhibited. Manager, Mr. Batty. Doors open at half-past six o’clock; performances commence at seven. Admission: boxes, four shillings; pit, two shillings; gallery, one shilling; upper gallery, sixpence. Second price at nine o’clock” (220).

pp52-76.

p714.

The information provided within this source is much the same as that given within the 1868 edition of the book.