Hippodrome Circus

Located close to the town’s beach and amusements, the Hippodrome Circus is one of Great Yarmouth’s most popular attractions, drawing vast numbers of visitors each year. Built in 1903 by the legendary circus showman George Gilbert, this historic building has been home to a wide variety of entertainment including amazing water spectacles, stage shows, cinema and cine variety and was even used as a military practice shooting range in wartime. Lloyd George held political rallies at the Hippodrome, Max Miller joked, Houdini escaped, Little Tich clowned, Lillie Langtry sang and the world’s finest clowns, circus performers and entertainers have performed here.

The family show is an eclectic mix of amazing circus acts from around the world, highly amusing comedy, stunning special effects and the unique water show with swimmers, fountains, fireworks and more. Suitable for all ages, the summer spectacular at the Hippodrome promises laughter, excitement, variety, drama and non-stop family entertainment.

The Hippodrome has also played host to The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Julian Lloyd Webber, The Berlin Symphony Orchestra, The Russian Philharmonic, Chinese State Circus, Moscow State Circus, Circus of Horrors and BBC Question Time. Peter Jay restored the water spectacle for his first produced circus show in 1981, having bought the building in 1979. The water has been a major part of the unique show ever since and never fails to surprise and delight audiences.

After the circus and water spectacular take a look around the museum and discover over a hundred years of circus memorabilia. Find out how the original water mechanism and tanks work, step back in time backstage, view the vintage sound, lighting and microphone collection, look at old props, vintage posters, signs and costumes and marvel at the clown head collection, old photos, circus trophy collection and more.

As well as the summer spectacular with water show, the Hippodrome also hosts other shows including Christmas and Halloween performances. To find out more about the Hippodrome Circus, including show dates and times, ticket prices, how to book and other events taking place, please go to their website.

https://www.hippodromecircus.co.uk/