Empress Building Leads Mexborough’s Revival as Weddings, Live Music and Hotel Bookings Soar
The Empress Building is fast becoming one of South Yorkshire’s most talked-about destinations, as a major £500,000 investment breathes new life into Mexborough’s historic heart and attracts weddings, live music, hen and stag parties, and leisure travellers from across the region.
Home to the beautifully restored Empress Ballroom, a growing boutique hotel, and the popular Goa Spice Restaurant, the Empress Building has quickly positioned itself as a cornerstone of Mexborough’s regeneration and a shining example of how heritage venues can drive modern economic growth.
Strong Demand for Weddings, Events and Boutique Hotel Stays
Since officially opening on 1 December, the Boutique Hotel has already secured 321 bookings, ranging from weddings and private celebrations to overnight stays and live music events. The demand reflects a growing appetite for distinctive venues that combine character, convenience, and experience.
Hotel manager Jemma Evans believes the appeal lies in the venue’s ability to offer something truly special while supporting the wider town.
“The vision has always been to create a destination that adds real value to Mexborough,” she said. “We’re welcoming visitors who might never have stayed here before, encouraging longer visits and helping local businesses thrive. It’s about pride, quality, and creating memories.”
With recent integrations across Booking.com, Airbnb, TripAdvisor and Expedia, the Empress Hotel is now visible to a global audience, further strengthening Mexborough’s position as a staycation and short-break destination.
Empress Ballroom Becomes a Go-To Wedding and Live Music Venue
The Empress Ballroom is rapidly earning a reputation as one of the most versatile wedding venues in South Yorkshire, alongside its growing profile as a live music and private events space.
Business partner Amanda Gear says interest has surged from couples and performers alike.
“We’re seeing a big increase in wedding bookings, private parties and bands from across the county approaching us for gig dates,” she explained. “Our revenue-share model makes the venue attractive to artists, and it’s exciting to see the Empress becoming a recognised name on the live music circuit.”
This blend of weddings, entertainment and hospitality is helping the venue build a packed and diverse events calendar year-round.
Goa Spice Restaurant Sees Increased Trade Throughout the Week
The success of the Empress Building is being felt throughout the wider business ecosystem — particularly by Goa Spice Restaurant, which operates as a concession within the building.
Owner Shamsul Alom has reported a significant uplift in trade since the opening.
“The increase in revenue has been fantastic,” he said. “Everyone booking the hotel is booking a table in the restaurant. We’re seeing strong business not just at weekends but throughout the week, and I’m absolutely delighted with the growth.”
This integrated approach, where accommodation, dining and entertainment work together — is proving highly effective in maximising visitor spend and enhancing the guest experience.
£500,000 Investment Driving Long-Term Vision
The restoration and relaunch of the Empress Building was led by Jason Mace, owner of the Empress Building and CEO of Gala Tent, who describes the results as exceeding expectations.
“The investment was significant — around £500,000 — but the response has been incredible,” said Mace. “With 321 bookings already secured and our online travel platform integrations now live, we expect those numbers to keep climbing.”
Looking ahead, further development is already planned, including the transformation of the Empress basement into a wellness destination featuring a gym, spa and treatment rooms, adding another layer to the venue’s appeal.
Mexborough Emerges as a Night-Out and Staycation Destination
The rise of the Empress Building comes at a pivotal moment for Mexborough. The town has recently secured £20 million in Levelling Up funding, with a further £20 million predicted for future improvements and attractions.
Alongside venues such as Gorilla Beer Hall and Imperial Music Venue, the Empress is helping reposition Mexborough as a lively, culturally rich destination, particularly popular with hen and stag parties.
Visitors are increasingly attracted to the town’s popular pub crawl, which begins at the George & Dragon, takes in a classic ten-pub circuit, and finishes at the Falcon. The evening often includes dinner at Goa Spice before concluding at the Empress Hotel, a combination many now regard as the perfect South Yorkshire night out.
A Landmark Venue at the Heart of Mexborough’s Comeback
As bookings continue to rise and new developments take shape, the Empress Building stands as both a symbol and a catalyst of Mexborough’s revival. By blending heritage architecture, modern hospitality and ambitious long-term planning, it is redefining what the town can offer residents and visitors alike.
With weddings booked, bands queuing, hotel rooms filling and local businesses thriving, the Empress Building is not just hosting events, it is helping write the next chapter of Mexborough’s story.
