Object Description
Heavy Duty Wrought Iron Gate with cross and spike design. Originally from the Grand Hotel in Folkstone.
At the time of their manufacture, Folkestone was one of the most stylish and prosperous coastal resorts. The builder of The Grand Hotel, Daniel Baker, was an innovative designer who sought to outdo their neighbour, The Metropole. His design of waterproof cavity wall insulation for the hotel was groundbreaking. He used a steel frame to give the large clear spans to the main reception rooms, which was a first in this period. As well as this he infilled it with reinforced concert and heightened the ceilings to improve the soundproof ability.
The King, Edward VII, stirred up gossip and attraction to the area with his frequent visits to the hotel. He came not only with the Queen but also his mistress Alice Keppel, great grandmother of the Duchess of Cornwall.
The building was badly damaged by shelling from the French coast during the war and what has been salvaged today is of significant historical value, such as this brilliant gate.