A Picture of London for 1802; being a Correct Guide to all the Curiosities, Amusements ,Exhibitions ,Public Establishments and remarkable Objects in and near London with a Collection of Appropriate Tables of the use of Strangers , Foreigners and all Persons who are not Intimately Acquainted with the British Metropolis by R Phillips.
This Theatre is situated in the Westminster-road near the bridge, and is built on the very ground on which Mr. Astley, sen. formerly exhibited feats of horsemanship and other amusements in the open air; the success and profits of which enabled him afterwards to extend his plan and erect a building, which, from the rural cast of the internal decorations he called the ROYAL GROVE. In this theatric structure, stage exhibitions were given, while, in a circular area, similar to that in the present theatre, horsemanship, and other feats of strength and agility, were continued. About seven or eight years ago, it was accidentally burnt down, after which the present theatre was erected under the appellation of the AMPITHEATRE of ARTS. The interior of the building, though for a summer theatre somewhat heavy in its style, has been rendered truly elegant by its late additional decorations; and the stage and scenery are also greatly improved. The horsemanship, for which a circular ride is provided, is still continued, though it forms a much smaller portion of the evening's entertainment than formerly. This theatre always opens on Easter Monday; and its amusements continue till October or November. There are two tiers of boxes, a pit, and gallery. The prices of admission are four shillings, two shillings, and one shilling. The doors open at half past five, and the performances begin at half past six.
Use the "Show me" link to locate Astley's Amphitheatre on the map. You may need to scroll down to see Astley's Amphitheatre highlighted.
Chapter 55 