HARROGATE...A Royal Playground Through the Ages
Step back in time with us as we explore Harrogate's illustrious history as "The World's Greatest Spa," a title that attracted crowned heads and nobility from across Europe. From its Georgian roots to the present day, Harrogate has been a magnet for the elite, offering healing waters, luxurious treatments, and a dash of scandal!!
Known as The Worlds Greatest spa, Harrogate welcomed on a daily basis Nobles and Royalty to take its medicinal waters and spa treatments. In fact in the Victorian era Harrogate station had many direct trains from London, so many in fact that the station was referred to as a silk hat station. This meant that the station manager would have to greet Royalty and Nobility on a regular basis and be properly attired.
A Silk Hat Station: The Gateway to Splendour
In the Victorian era, Harrogate's railway station earned the moniker "silk hat station" due to the constant influx of aristocracy and royalty. Picture the station manager, impeccably dressed, greeting dukes and duchesses as they alighted from direct trains from London. Legend has it that a red carpet was permanently laid in the reception hall, always ready to welcome esteemed guests.
It was also claimed that the station had a red carpet laid permanently in the reception Hall for just such events. It was in the Georgian era Granby Corner and down to the Dragon Hotel were the preferred locations for the elite. They were also well known for there illicit gambling games that the idle rich loved to while away their time with. Many a fortune was was gained and lost across the card tables. As “taking the waters” became more popular the crowds flocked to the popular spa town ,hence the increase in hotels and boarding houses.
Georgian Grandeur and Clandestine Cards
During the Georgian period, Granby Corner and the area surrounding the Dragon Hotel became the epicentre of elite society. These districts weren't just known for their opulent accommodations; they gained notoriety for hosting illicit gambling sessions. Many a fortune changed hands across the green baize, as the idle rich whiled away their hours with cards and dice.
It wasn’t unusual for Royalty to stay in guest houses rather than hotels. Cathcart house was once claimed by one visitor, on opening the door, to find 3 Russian Grand Duchesses chasing King Manuela of Portugal around the rooms with soda siphons . Indeed the Russian Royal family’s last holiday as a family was said to have been in Harrogate.
From Grand Duchesses to Exiled Kings
As "taking the waters" grew in popularity, Harrogate's guesthouses became as sought-after as its grand hotels. One visitor to Cathcart House claimed to have stumbled upon a scene of royal revelry: three Russian Grand Duchesses chasing the exiled King Manuel II of Portugal with soda siphons! Such was the relaxed atmosphere that even royalty felt at ease in these less formal settings.
Harrogate Pumproom Museum has several artefacts and pieces of jewellery that were given as gifts to commemorate Imperial visits. British Royalty were also regular visitors to Harrogate. Mary, Princess Royal and Countess of Harewood was was a regular visitor after marrying Henry,Viscount Lascelles later the 6th Earl of Harewood. Queen Mary was often seen in Harrogate visiting various antiques establishments.
Did you know? The last holiday of the Russian Imperial family before their tragic fate is said to have taken place in Harrogate. The town's Pump Room Museum proudly displays gifts and jewellery commemorating various imperial visits, tangible reminders of Harrogate's royal connections.
British Royals: Regular Patrons
The British Royal Family were no strangers to Harrogate's charms. Mary, Princess Royal and Countess of Harewood, was a frequent visitor after her marriage to Henry, Viscount Lascelles (later the 6th Earl of Harewood). Queen Mary herself was often spotted perusing Harrogate's antique shops, perhaps searching for treasures to add to the royal collection.
A Modern Royal Connection
In recent times, Harrogate's royal associations have continued through King Charles III's patronage of The Royal Hall Restoration Trust. His support has been instrumental in raising funds for various restoration projects, breathing new life into this versatile venue. Throughout its colourful history, the Royal Hall has served as an exhibition hall, dance hall, cinema, and even a boxing ring!
Today, the Royal Hall hosts an array of theatrical productions, its gilded elegance a testament to Harrogate's enduring appeal. As we enter a new Carolean era, the town eagerly anticipates the possibility of a royal visit from our new monarch. Will King Charles III follow in the footsteps of his illustrious predecessors and grace Harrogate with his presence?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Harrogate's royal heritage continues to captivate and enchant visitors from around the world. Come and experience the regal charm for yourself – who knows, you might just brush shoulders with royalty!
What the future has in store for Harrogate and its Royal Patronage, no one yet knows. Maybe we will see a Royal visit from our new King?
