Boscombe was originally a sparsely inhabited area of heathland, from around 1865 Boscombe developed rapidly from a small village into a seaside resort .
The commercial centre of Boscombe had a major boost with projects by Archibald Beckett including blocks of shops, the Salisbury Hotel, the Royal Arcade, and a Grand Theatre, which was to become Boscombe Hippodrome, then the Royal Ballrooms and today the O2 Academy. These were all built between 1888 and 1895, shortly after opening in 1892 on 29 May 1897 the Royal Arcade was one of the first arcades in England to be lit by electricity.
The performers from the joining Grand Theatre included singers and musicians, they would entertain the shoppers below.
The performers were a great addition to the shopping experience, providing a unique and enjoyable atmosphere.
The elephants from the circus would be accompanied by their trainers, who would lead them past the Arcade, down sea road to the beach, they would be greeted by excited children and adults alike, who would wave and cheer them on. Once they reached the beach, the elephants would be allowed to enjoy the sand and surf.
The entrance that is opposite the Sovereign shopping centre was not originally there. It was created due to extensive damage in the end shop.
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