Pavilion Theatre, Ilfracombe 1969

Perched proudly on Ilfracombe’s seafront for over a century, the Pavilion Theatre—formally known as the Victoria Pavilion—was a beloved cultural gem that saw the town through changing eras, from the elegance of the late Victorian period to the storms of the late 20th century.

Victorian Grandeur (1888)

Built in 1888, the Pavilion was an architectural delight of glass and cast iron, reminiscent of the great conservatories of the age such as Kew Gardens’ Palm House. It was a bold statement for a growing seaside resort, offering a spacious conservatory frontage and a modest concert hall to the rear. This was more than just a theatre; it was a gathering place, a promenade shelter, and, in the early 20th century, even a cinema. Between 1914 and 1919, its hall was used for film screenings, adding to its reputation as a versatile entertainment space.

A 1920s Reinvention

By the 1920s, the Pavilion’s central structure had grown tired, and in 1925, a major rebuild transformed the venue. The centre section was replaced with a grand 750-seat concert hall, while the ornate glass wings on either side were preserved. This clever mix of the old and new kept the Pavilion’s Victorian charm while providing Ilfracombe with a modern venue for concerts, plays, and community events.

Weathering the Storms (1990)

The Pavilion endured decades of changing tastes in entertainment, but nature would deliver a blow more damaging than any shift in public fashion. In January 1990, a fierce gale tore through the town, destroying the stage house. The damage might have spelled the end for lesser venues, but Ilfracombe adapted—installing a thrust stage in front of the safety curtain. Though the capacity dropped to around 500 seats, the theatre continued to host performances, a testament to the town’s determination to keep the arts alive.

A New Landmark (1997–1998)

Ultimately, time caught up with the Pavilion. In 1997, after nearly 110 years of service, the building was demolished

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