Nestled in the heart of Bolton town centre, the historic Albert Halls offers an irresistible mix of Victorian charm and modern amenities. This impressive 670-seat theatre has been a focal point of Bolton’s cultural scene for over a century. It continues to captivate audiences today with its eclectic programme of events, including theatrical performances, music concerts, comedy shows, family shows, and pantomimes.
After undergoing a stunning £6.5 million restoration in 2017, the venue is ideal for weddings, banquets, and conferences.
Events
Upcoming events at the Albert Halls can be viewed on the official website. The website also offers information on how to buy tickets.
Venue Hire
The Albert Halls offers vibrant spaces for hosting various events. They include:
- Albert Hall Theatre (capacity: up to 1000 standing or 673) – Ideal for larger gatherings, this impressive theatre boasts state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment ensuring your event is memorable and engaging.
- Festival Hall (capacity: 250) – With its elegant décor and flexible configurations, Festival Hall is perfect for weddings or corporate banquets.
- Lancaster Suite (capacity: 120) – This spacious suite can easily accommodate conferences or private functions.
- Dido Suite (capacity: 30) – The Dido Suite’s intimate setting makes it an excellent choice for smaller meetings or workshops.
- Paderborn Room (capacity: 40) – Providing a comfortable space for medium-sized gatherings, the Paderborn Room is both versatile and inviting.
- Artillery Suite (capacity: 24) – Ideal for team meetings or smaller presentations, this suite offers a professional atmosphere with modern amenities.
- Le Mans Room (capacity: 16) – This cosy room is perfect for hosting more intimate meetings or brainstorming sessions.
In addition to these spaces, several smaller rooms are available upon request.
Location of Albert Halls Bolton
Situated within Bolton’s grand Victorian town hall just a stone’s throw away from Bolton Bus Station and Bolton Train Station, the Albert Halls is easy to access via public transport.
Many car parks are located within easy walking distance for those arriving by car. Nearby options include the multi-storey car parks at the Octagon Theatre (postcode BL1 1SN) and on Topp Way (postcode BL1 2DD). Both are open until late in the evening.
History
The story of the Albert Halls Bolton can be traced back to the early 1860s when Bolton Council organized a competition for designing a new town hall. William Hill of Leeds was the winning architect. His design bore striking similarities to Leeds Town Hall. Construction commenced in 1866 before finally being completed seven years later. It was officially opened on June 5 1873, by the Princess and Princess of Wales.
On November 14 1981, a fire broke out in Albert Hall. Its heavy doors prevented the flames from spreading to the rest of the town hall, but the theatre’s interior was destroyed. A sad loss was the famous pipe organ, built in 1874 by Gray and Davison of London.
After careful consideration, it was decided not to restore the original Albert Hall but to create two new complementary entertainment venues within the existing space; a smaller Festival Hall on the lower level and a more adaptable Albert Hall above. The complex was officially reopened in April 1985.
2017 Restoration
In 2017 a £6.5 million project was completed. Contractors Willmott Dixon handed over an impeccably restored venue featuring improved bar facilities alongside conference and wedding amenities.
This extensive project saw meticulous attention devoted to maintaining original features such as staircases, fireplaces and chandeliers while introducing modern design elements blending seamlessly with classic Victorian architecture. The successful completion of this ambitious renovation earned recognition at Construction News Awards 2017, winning the prize for Project Of The Year.
Other Theatres and Entertainment Venues in Lancashire and Greater Manchester
Other great theatres and live entertainment venues in Lancashire and Greater Manchester include:
- Blackburn Empire Theatre – Theatre in Blackburn hosting touring productions, comedy, and music.
- Castlefield Bowl – Outdoor amphitheatre venue in Manchester hosting live music and events.
- The Grand Theatre Blackpool – Large theatre in Blackpool staging musicals, drama, ballet, opera, and concerts.
- King George’s Hall – Concert hall and events venue in Blackburn, Lancashire.
- Lancaster Grand Theatre – Theatre in Lancaster.
- The Dukes – Theatre in Lancaster.
- The Lowry – Arts and entertainment complex in Salford with two theatres, art galleries, and restaurants.
- The Lowther Pavilion – Theatre and conference centre in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire.
- Manchester Arena – Large indoor arena in Manchester hosting concerts and sporting events.
- Manchester Opera House – Historic theatre in Manchester staging musicals, drama, and dance.
- Octagon Theatre – Theatre in Bolton, Greater Manchester, hosting drama, music, comedy, and pantomime.
- Palace Theatre – West End-style theatre in Manchester hosting touring musicals and stage shows.
- The Platform – Arts centre in Morecambe with a theatre, gallery, cafe, and studios.
- Royal Exchange Theatre – Theatre in the round housed in a historic building in central Manchester.
