Around The World at the Great Yarmouth’s Hippodrome

The O'Hallorans

We’re made up of Lyndsey, John and Erin, who all love a new adventure. We try to get away as much as possible, especially during school holidays and variety is a must for us. That means staying anywhere from a luxury hotel to a hostel and it’s not often we go to the same place twice.

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One of our favourite ways to kick off the summer holidays is with a trip to the Hippodrom in Great Yarmouth to watch the Summer Circus & Water Spectacular. 2025’s theme is ‘Around The World’

About the Hippodrome Circus

Built in 1903 by circus showman George Gilbert, the Hippodrome is one of the only purpose-built circus buildings that still stands! Over the years, the building has been host to a number of amazing events and performers such as The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Julian Moscow State Circus, Chinese State Circus, Circus of Horrors and even BBC Question Time

The building was purchased by Peter Jay in 1979, who went on to restore the sinking floor in 1981. The Hippodrome is still in the Jay family, with Jack Jay as ringmaster!

Contact and address

St. Georges Road (behind the CIRCUS CIRCUS Amusement Arcade)
Great Yarmouth
Norfolk
NR30 2EU

Box Office: 01493 738877
Email address: hippodromecircus@gmail.com
Website: https://hippodromecircus.com

Parking at the Hippodrome

The Great Yarmouth Hippodrome does not have parking facilities. However, there are plenty of public (paid) car parks, most of which are a short walk away.

Hippodrome shows

Dancing robot at the Hippodrome Circus in Great Yarmouth

Around The World

This year, the Summer Circus and Water Spectactular is back with a bit of a difference. The theme of the show for 2025 is Around The World!

Each year I say ‘That was my favourite’, and the same goes for this year’s show! There’s something about seeing new acts each year in a familiar setting. Somehow, the Hippodrome always brings something new and exciting to the stage and I am always excited to see what they’ve got in store for us.

Duo Telemarinera in the water at Great Yarmouth Hippodrome

Summer 2025 brings acts from all over the world and there’s such a variety. One of the great things about this show is that everything is spaced out so nicely. The whole show is seamless and even when something big is happening, there’ll be something going on to distract you.

In this show you’ll get to see amazing aerialists, the most phenomenal stunt motorbike act, jugglers, a dancing robot, acrobats and so much more. As a family show, there’s a lovely mix of ‘safer’ acts with a mix of jaw dropping daredevils! Personally, the scarier the act, the better for me, but Erin likes something a little bit tamer most of the time.

Motorbike stunt team at Great Yarmouth's Hippodrome

Although the acts each year are amazing, we do always keep coming back for host and comedians Jack Jay and Johnny Mac. This year in particular, they made me cry laughing. Whether its faulty Stormtroopers, Johnny’s slightly more adult jokes or a huge water fight, you’ll be smiling each time they are on stage. Erin even has a water bottle now with Johnny’s catchphase ‘I’m enjoying myself’.

Johnny Mac water spectactular at Great Yarmouth Hippodrome

I have to mention to super special finale to the show too, which is the water spectacular. The stage transforms into an amazing swimming pool where the swimmers/ dancers perform. You won’t see something like this anywhere else and it’s so special. I particularly love how they make the changing of the stage into a part of the show, rather than just a quick change.

Water Spectacular swimmers at the Hippodrome Circus in Great Yarmouth

What I want to know is, where do you come up with the idea to throw yourself at a huge pole, then fall down it, or, learn how to ride a motorbike with 3 other people in an enclosed dome?!

Meet the hosts!

Although not guarenteed, Jack Jay and Johnny Mac sometimes hang around after the show to take photos with the audience! Erin loves to get a photo each time, because Johnny is her absolute favourite. They’re always so patient, especially when I try to take quite a few photos!