An introduction to Belle Vue

"The show ground of the world"

Founded in 1836 by John Jennison.

During the course of the week we were introduced to Belle Vue with lectures and a visit to Chetham's Library to see their archive collection. 

Never before had I heard of Belle Vue, a place in Gorton, Manchester that attracted two million people a year, had three train stations and their own zoo. It was a hundred acres of attraction, a 'magical' place with amusements of all kinds. From thrilling rides to lavish ball rooms, there was definitely enough to be seen and do.

Chetham library archives of Belle Vue

There is no doubt that this extraordinary place was a popular destination for all ages, known all across the country and beyond. However it thrived as a money making scheme, and proved to be a ruthless business. When exotic animals were shipped to their zoo as another way of attracting people, no one knew how to take care of them. The Chetham Library visit gave me an insight into the vastness and extravagance of Belle Vue.

Walking the monkeys
A photograph belonging to Chetham Library's collection