Tameside Hippodrome

Tameside Hippodrome stands in Ashton-under-Lyne, a town in Greater Manchester. Built in 1904, it was designed as a large theatre with space for over two thousand people. William Henry Broadhead, a local builder and theatre owner, constructed it himself using his own company. The building opened with a gala evening and soon hosted variety shows. Its original design included a grand auditorium and decorative features typical of Edwardian theatres. The theatre’s history reflects changes in entertainment over the 20th century. In 1932 it was converted into a cinema, with Art Deco styling added by architects Drury & Gomersall. The front was remodelled with a streamlined canopy and vertical signage. It operated under different names and owners, including ABC Cinemas, before becoming a bingo hall. After years of closure and uncertainty, it was listed as a Grade II building in 2009 for its preserved Art Deco interiors. Visitors today would find a theatre that has survived multiple transformations. The auditorium still holds its double-height space with original detailing. The foyer and bar area retain 1930s Art Deco plasterwork, including a crush lounge and cafeteria. The building’s exterior features a prominent canopy and vertical sign, echoing its cinema past. Though currently closed, plans aim to restore it as a working theatre in the town’s redevelopment.