History of The Gresham Metropole - Cork's Landmark Hotel

Welcome to the historical and architectural landmark in the centre of Cork City, known locally as The Met.

The Metropole Hotel was designed by Arthur Hill, a famous local architect whose influence can be seen in numerous buildings around Cork City.

When it was originally opened in 1897, the hotel occupied the upper floors of the premises, with the ground floor and basement being retail units that were let out. One of these units, situated where the bay window is currently, was 'Hadji Bey Et Cie', one of Cork's most famous sweet shops, that specialised in Turkish Delights.

The Musgrave family who owned the Metropole Hotel until 1979, were of the belief that alcohol should not be served in their hotel, and as such the hotel was advertised as "Ireland's Finest Unlicensed Hotel". This was until 1956, when one of Ireland's most famous Hoteliers and the then Manager, Douglas Vance convinced them that to succeed in the hospitality industry they would need to operate a bar.

Since purchasing the Metropole Hotel in 1999, the Gresham Hotel Group have re-branded it to the Gresham Metropole Hotel, as well as spending upwards of €9m to bring it up to the standard of the most disconcerting of modern travellers.