The Subscription Betting Rooms were built on High Street; designed by Messrs Woodhead and Hurst. Nowadays the portico is all that remains, forming the southern entrance to Priory Walk.
The establishment provided entertainment for the gentry during race week, and there was a subscription fee of one guinea. When the Rooms were opened for the first time 200 members were enrolled. As well as betting facilities, food,
newspapers and writing facilities were provided. During the rest of the year the building was used for public functions; Paganini gave a concert there in 1833.
The Rooms were under constant police surveillance and were raided in 1871, eventually closing in 1892.
The Civic Trust played a key role in saving the portico for the Subscription Betting Rooms. Built-in 1826. It was used by the Nobility and Gentry during Leger Race Week. It has also been used for various commercial purposes including being a cinema.
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