History
Harrogate’s rise as a spa town of international repute, over a 200 year period,
led in 1903 to the building of the Royal Hall as a place of day and night time
entertainment, a role it effortlessly replicates 100 years on.
Originally called the Kursaal, the Royal Hall’s name was changed during World
War 1 to reflect a more patriotic position.
Kursaal is a German word, which literally means, “Cure Hall”, but in practice
is used primarily for grand receptions and special occasions. Kursaals were a
popular form of building in European spa destinations of the late 19th century,
but never really caught on in Britain.
The building was designed by Robert Beale and Frank Matcham and was loosely based
on Ostende Kursall in Belgium.
Matcham was responsible for many landmark theatre buildings and is recognised
as one of the most prolific theatre architects of his time, building over 1250
theatres in the late 19th century including the London Coliseum and the Hackney
Empire.
In the 1950’s, the venue helped in the formation and growth of Harrogate as a
conference and exhibition town, leading to the modern day where Harrogate is acknowledged
as one of the UK’s top event destinations and home to Harrogate International
Centre.