Victoria Park Pavilion c1900

The Victoria Park Pavilion c1900

Victoria Park Pavilion c1900
The Victoria Park Pavilion c1900

The Victorian pavilion shown in the photograph was built in 1866 when Victoria Park was still the site of Leicester racecourse. Besides providing a considerably improved vantage point, it allowed spectators to avoid the crowds (who could become rowdy and unpredictable).

After the race course moved to Oadby in 1883, it provided a viewpoint for other sporting contests (such as cricket matches) and displays, changing facilities for sportsmen and rooms which could be hired for events (much like a conference venue today).

Unfortunately, after 74 years of use it was badly damaged by a parachute mine dropped by the Luftwaffe on 20th November 1940 which landed a few fee from the north-eastern corner. During 1942 a temporary wooden pavilion was erected to provide sports changing facilities and a café.

It was finally replaced by the present pavilion in 1958.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *