A Brief Hisotry of The Regent Bangueting Suite

King Edward Hall (named after Edward VII ), opposite to the Arcadia site and Bohemia cinema won a licence for music and dancing in 1913. At that time dancing was all the rage – waltz, foxtrot, tango, Charleston and many more short-lived ones.

With its powerful décor such as rich gold and red velvet drapes adorning the long leaded windows, and an ornate and intricate ceiling the King Edward Hall as it was then known, soon became very popular for local functions, including dances, dinners, exhibitions and receptions.

When used as an emergency hospital in 1940s, the hall was severely damaged. The Regent has been painstakingly restored back to its former glory. The décor – as near as possible – reflects the lavishness and opulence of the 1920s.

Today, this Banqueting Suite still has its initial glory and ambience. Therefore, its certainly worth a visit, if only to see history.

The ceiling is a masterpiece of restoration work. The crystal chandelier is a toast to British craftsmanship, burning more than 80 lights. The 24ft tall windows are dressed in gold and blue, and the total overall effect is one of the quality and elegance of the period.

The Regent can host a dinner and ball for up to 300 people and the upstairs room with its wonderful balcony makes a superb pre-dinner area or can be used to provide an attractive smaller room for private parties.