Hundreds of people danced until midnight when the Royal Hotel opened its doors in the earliest concerted effort to develop Southend as a seaside resort more than 230 years ago.

Regarded as one of the jewels in Southend’s crown, the historic High Street hotel was built in the early 1790s as the first phase of "New South End". The town was designed as a fashionable seaside resort to rival Margate, Brighton and Weymouth.

A grand ball marked the opening in the summer of 1793 - attended by 170 guests. Dancing until midnight was followed by a supper and concert, after which dancing continued until 8am.

Originally named the Capital, the hotel was first licensed as Royal, named in honour of Princess Caroline, Princess of Wales, who gave it her royal seal of approval when it was officially opened.

In its heyday, the hotel became a centre of social life and functions regularly frequented by leading society figures. It was the most expensive hotel in the town.

An “elegant ball” in August 1795, was attended by a large company which included the Marquis of Salisbury, Lord and Lady Clive, and a “numerous train of beauty and fashion”.

The hotel was later expanded in 1824. 

In recent years, the hotel has become a family-run venue spanning three floors with a ground floor bar and lounge, a grand ballroom and private basement bar. 

Fresh plans have now been put forward to convert the upper two floors of the Grade II listed former hotel as well as its neighbouring Princess Caroline House into 17 plush flats.