Investigating the Butlins Metropole hotel has been a rewarding experience for me, as I learned about its amazing history and gained appreciation for this important venue. It began its journey as the Baileys Hotel, marking the start of a story centered around a site recognised for its exceptional views and its use for conferences and balls. The story of this remarkable hotel greatly impressed me, as it was not as straightforward as I had initially thought, leading me to respect this location greatly. What began as a concept evolved into a well-known site for numerous important events, including a visit from a royal family member who eventually became the king of the United Kingdom.
This chapter examines the history of the hotel, which began under the management of Lawerence Bailey in 1775. Expanding into the hotel industry in the late 1770s faced minimal competition, especially with a hotel that provided so much, including a sea view. Throughout these years, the hotel underwent several name changes, including the Rossall Dickerson Hotel, before reverting to its original name, the Baileys Hotel, under the ownership of William Bailey.
Chapter two begins in 1896, when the Hotel Metropole Blackpool Limited acquired the property under the direction of Mr. J. T. Murray. The name Bailey Hotel was abandoned, and the establishment was rebranded as the Metropole Hotel. Throughout this period, there was yet another change in ownership, along with significant occurrences at the hotel, including a royal visit from the Duke of York.
This chapter, the third, investigates the hotel's transformation into the Butlins era when Sir Billy Butlin acquired the site for his company. I review the advertisements and the services it offered to guests during that time. This chapter will finalize the story, extending to the sale of the site by Butlins to Britannia Hotel in 1999, which marks the beginning of a new era that remains in effect as of 2025.