Holiday Let Work Underway at the Empress Building

Exciting developments are underway at the Empress Building as the top floor has now been completely gutted, paving the way for a transformation into luxury overnight apartments. But why is the owner of the Empress investing in such an ambitious project?

The answer lies in the growing demand for high-quality temporary accommodation in Mexborough. Recent studies and an influx of requests reveal that this demand is driven not only by the Empress hosting lavish weddings, dance conventions, celebrity evenings, and private parties but also by the thriving local business scene. Venues such as the renowned Gorilla Beer Hall and the vibrant Imperial Music Venue regularly attract visitors from far and wide, many of whom currently face limited options for overnight stays.

By addressing this gap in the market, the Empress Rooms holiday let project aligns perfectly with the needs of Mexborough’s growing visitor base, offering a premium experience that benefits both the Empress and the wider community.

What’s more, the project is already proving its viability, with pre-bookings secured for late 2025 and 2026, demonstrating strong confidence in the venture.

This bold investment not only enhances the offerings of the Empress Building but also contributes to the continued growth and appeal of Mexborough as a destination.

Exciting times are ahead!

The Empress Rooms will be named in honour of the most influential individuals who have lived in Mexborough, including rock stars, famous actors, sports champions, and beloved local figures.

1. The Hughes Room 

   Mr. Ted Hughes (1930–1998) was one of the most important English language poets of the 20th century

2. The Walters Room 

   Mr. Hugh Walters, was an actor and writer, renowned for his roles in 1984, The Train Now Standing and Agatha Christie's Miss Marple: The Body in the Library

3. The Tarver Room 

   Mr. Tony Tarver, the popular manager and dance teacher, in the heyday of the Empress Building during the 50s and 60s.

4. The Barron Room 

   Mr. Keith Barron (1934–2017) was an English actor and television presenter, best known for his role in the 1980s series "Duty Free," who also appeared in various films and television programmes.

5. The Irwin Room 

   Mr. John Jo Irwin Represented England, winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal, the World Super Featherweight Title, WBO Inter-Continental Featherweight Title, British Featherweight Title, and Commonwealth Featherweight Title.

6. The Blessed Room 

   Mr. Brian Blessed, OBE, An English actor and adventurer, renowned for his distinctive bushy beard, booming voice, and exuberant personality and performances.

7. The Lavender Room

   Miss Alice Lavender Lee, was the First Miss World, and she was a contemporary of Charlie Chaplin and Tyrone Power.

8. The Hawthorn Room 

   Mr. Mike Hawthorn, Britain's first Formula One World Champion, celebrated for pioneering the nation's success in the sport and setting a high standard for future generations of British drivers.

9. The Priestley Room 

   Mr. Dennis Priestley, is a former English professional darts player who achieved the remarkable feat of winning two world championships. He was the first player to secure both the BDO and WDC world titles.

10. The Oliver Room 

    Mr. Graham Oliver, An English guitarist who was a founding member of the heavy metal band Saxon.

11. The Hague Room

    Mr. James William "Iron" Hague, (1885–1951) was the British heavyweight champion from 1909 to 1911.

12. The Walker Room  

    Ms. Karen Walker is an English former international football centre-forward, who made 83 appearances and scored a record 40 goals.