'The Majestic Cabaret'
Date(s): 20th century
Creator(s): unknown
Administration / Biographical History: Now the site of the Majestic Apartments, the site that would become the Majestic Hotel originally was known as View Park mansion, built in 1893 as a private residence for one John Smith McAndrew. The premises were designed by 28 year old architect Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott, now celebrated and lauded for his design and innovation in other properties on island and elsewhere. McAndrew did not live to occupy the property, dying in 1899. The property changed hands many times before being accquired in 1920 by William and Emma Grant and opening in 1922 as the Hotel Majestic.
The hotel as a business would cross hands countless times over its lifespan, going through a decades-long cycle of being purchased from the previous owners, refurbished, falling into financial difficulties and being sold on again. This is perhaps not surprising with the long decline of the island’s post-war tourism trade. For the season of 1986, the hotel was increasingly seeking its trade from non-residents. Following refurbishments to its lounges and bars a varied and extensive program of attractions was available in the La Tonnelle ballroom and in the lounge. Good value bar lunches were available and the swimming pool could be used, for a charge, by non-residents. The hotel advertised that it even had a helicopter landing pad. Plans were announced to hold afternoon tea dances and garden parties but it was all to no avail and The Majestic finally closed in 1987.
The building was later used as an auction room. Various planning applications were made to demolish it and to build up to 130 apartments on the site. These met with opposition both from the Onchan Commissioners and from local residents and failed to obtain initial approval. The mansion house and associated buildings were registered on 5 June 1998 for their architectural merit and significance. The site has since been redeveloped.
Language: eng
Extent: 51 x 30.5 cm
Item name: poster
Collection: Print & Poster Archive
Level: ITEM
ID number: P.6168/2
Subject tags : #MM100