Historic Insights - Royal Hall Open Days
Step inside one of Harrogate’s most beautiful spa buildings and discover the history behind the magnificent Royal Hall at a visitor open day.
Do you have a love of architecture? Harrogate is full of beautiful and elegant spa buildings and one of the most stunning is the Royal Hall - Harrogate’s ‘glittering palace of gold’. One of the few Frank Matcham designed theatres left in the UK, you are able to visit the Royal Hall during one of its’ twice monthly open days.
2023 dates: 5th & 20th February, 14th & 28th March, 3rd & 19th April, 3rd & 17th May
Saturday 27th May 120th Anniversary. No guided tours on this day
1st, 13th & 14th June, 4th & 30th July, 2nd & 23rd August, 1st & 25th September, 4th October
Originally named the ‘Kursaal’ (Cure Hall), a word meaning a room or public hall used by visitors at health resorts in Germany, the theatre’s name was changed to the more patriotic ‘Royal Hall’ after the First World War. The original name can still be seen in the stonework on the front façade above the entrances.
During an open day, you can take in the golden grandeur of the interior by exploring at your leisure or you can book in advance to join one of the twice daily tours carried out by a knowledgeable tour guide.
Learn about the history of this beautiful Edwardian theatre from its origins as a concert hall through to the major refurbishment that began in 2006 and brought the theatre back to its original splendour.

You’ll be in good company when visiting the Royal Hall as many notable acts have performed here over the years including Gracie Fields, Lilly Langtry, Dame Nellie Melba and ‘4 young lads from Liverpool’ who later became one of the biggest bands in the world!
The Royal Hall still offers a full programme of concerts throughout the year so why not visit again and enjoy a live music event or performance.
Upcoming events at the Royal Hall include Radio Gaga 24th June and the International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival in August. Find out about all future performances at the Royal Hall through Harrogate Theatre.
Find more articles
More from Events

See the Harrogate area illuminated this festive season
There’s nothing more magical at Christmas that a little seasonal sparkle lighting up the dark evenings. From the famous...

Remember, remember the 5th of November…
As we say goodbye to October, thoughts turn to the cosiness of November with crisp morning walks, hot chocolates...

Connect to the past and feel good on your Yorkshire break
As we focus on our health and wellbeing and look for things to do to feel good, a visit...
Loading entries...
Events

See the Harrogate area illuminated this festive season
There’s nothing more magical at Christmas that a little seasonal sparkle lighting up the dark evenings. From the famous...

Remember, remember the 5th of November…
As we say goodbye to October, thoughts turn to the cosiness of November with crisp morning walks, hot chocolates...

Connect to the past and feel good on your Yorkshire break
As we focus on our health and wellbeing and look for things to do to feel good, a visit...
Loading entries...
You may also like

Pop Up Party in Valley Gardens
Looking for ways to keep the children entertained this summer? Look no further, North Yorkshire Council and Rascals Entertainment...

Open Gardens and Coronation Fete
Swinton Estate invites you to a quintessentially British afternoon, as we celebrate the coronation of King Charles III. A...

Boroughbridge Town Car Park
Enjoy Boroughbridge’s distinctive shopping streets, welcoming pubs and eateries or set out on a long reaching walks with convenient...
Loading entries...