Central Hall Westminster

Before Central Hall Westminster stood here, this site held an ambitious entertainment complex called the Royal Aquarium. It opened in 1876, promising high-minded nature exhibits, but it quickly became famous for more sensational fare. The venue hosted human cannonballs, including the teenage performer Zazel who was fired from a spring-loaded cannon, as well as various shaving competitions and questionable variety acts. The attraction eventually failed, clearing the way for the Methodists to purchase the land and construct the current hall.