Empress Building launches 12 luxury hotel suites with £500,000 investment

The historic Empress Building in Mexborough has unveiled its new boutique hotel offering—12 luxury Empress Suites, each dedicated to a celebrated son or daughter of the town.

Honouring beloved figures such as Brian Blessed, Kevin Keegan, Dennis Priestley, Graham Oliver, John Jo Irwin and former Miss World Alice Lavender Lee, the development represents one of the most significant local investments in recent years and a milestone in Mexborough’s ongoing cultural revival.

The project, funded by local entrepreneur and Gala Tent CEO Jason Mace, represents over £500,000 of investment and has transformed the site in under 12 months from approved plans to opening day.

Each suite combines heritage-inspired interior design with the latest hospitality technology, including smart-lock self check-in, enabling instant, queue-free entry with a secure PIN. The result is a modern guest experience offering complete comfort and total convenience. A new chapter for a historic landmark, the refurbishment follows a dramatic rise in demand for weddings, private parties, tribute nights, and large-scale concerts at the newly revitalised Empress Ballroom, now operated by business partners Jemma Evans and Amanda Gear.

The pair, who have also taken on the contract to service the boutique suites, have been instrumental in reshaping the venue into one of South Yorkshire’s most exciting entertainment destinations, recently winning highly commended awards from the Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber of Commerce.

The hotel’s arrival responds to a long-recognised need in the region: high-quality, local accommodation for guests attending events at the Empress Ballroom. With super king-size beds, luxury en-suites, digital entertainment, kitchen facilities, and high-speed Wi-Fi, the suites offer a new level of comfort for visitors to Mexborough and an experience unlike anything else in the area. A connecting door to the acclaimed 5-star-rated Goa Spice Bar & Restaurant further elevates the guest offering, with room service available from 5:30 to 10pm, pairing standout Goan cuisine with Cobra beer, wines, and spirits.

One of Mexborough’s most extraordinary exports, actor Brian Blessed, will return to the Empress Ballroom on 3rd and 4th December 2025 for two exclusive live evenings—and will stay in the suite created in his honour. Speaking ahead of his return, Blessed said: “I am overjoyed to be returning to my beloved hometown of Mexborough, where my journey as an actor began. Mexborough holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to share this unforgettable evening with the people who have supported me throughout my career.”

Leadership comments Jemma Evans, operator of the Empress Ballroom and co-manager of the new hotel, said: “The Empress Building has always been a place where memories are made, and these suites take that legacy to the next level. Celebrating so many Mexborough icons under one roof is incredibly special. Our vision is to create a destination that the community is proud of—combining luxury, innovation, and local heritage in a way that truly belongs to this town.”

Business partner Amanda Gear added: “These suites will transform the experience for our guests. Whether they’re here for a wedding, a concert, or a private event, they can now enjoy boutique accommodation just steps from the Ballroom. The smart-lock system, the themed rooms, and the quality of the finish give Mexborough something genuinely unique, and we’re already seeing the positive impact on bookings and customer enquiries.”

Empress Building owner and Gala Tent CEO Jason Mace said: “This £500,000 investment is a long-term commitment to Mexborough. The Empress Building is part of the town’s heritage, and these suites secure its future. We’re blending history with modern technology to create a hotel experience that rivals any in the region. With future plans for a jazz bar and boutique casino, we’re only just getting started.”

Plans for a jazz bar and boutique casino, for 2026 pending planning approval, underscore the Empress Building’s long-term ambition to help revitalise Mexborough’s nighttime economy and enhance its appeal as a cultural and entertainment hub.

As the hotel opens its doors, early demand suggests the suites will become a key driver of economic growth, attracting visitors, boosting local spending, and strengthening Mexborough’s position as a destination for major events and celebrations.

For further information visit: Empress Building Doncaster | Historic Wedding & Event Venue Hire