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Torquay Pavilion www.torquaypavilion.com A Unique Collection of Speciality Shops in Torquay’s best-loved historic building. Individually-owned Shops • Galleries • Cafés • Restaurant • Bar Terrace Bar • Car Park • Disabled Access • WiFi Hotspot ... where a day out is much more than just shopping ... |
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Open all year – 7 days a week every day of the year including all
Public Holidays (except Christmas Day) from 09.30am–5.30pm Scroll down to see details of the shops and their products and services • Shops To Let. For details of retail opportunities in The Pavilion please call 01803 200210. http://www.marinas.co.uk • Forthcoming Centenary Exhibition begins late 2008. Memorabilia, artifacts, posters, programmes etc. wanted to loan or purchase. More info call 01803 214570. Listen to the item on Showtime with Doug Mount on BBC Radio Devon http://www.bbc.co.uk/devon/local_radio/ _____________________________________________________________ The graceful proportions of Torquay Pavilion evoke the aesthetic ideals of a gentler era and celebrate the spirit of Edwardian seaside architecture. For almost a century this landmark building has been at the heart of the town’s cultural life and today it stands as a fine example of Victorian design recalling Torquay’s style of yesteryear. It is also the only building of significant architectural and historical interest in Torbay that you can visit and enjoy for free. History The Torquay Pavilion was opened in 1912 as a ‘Palace of Pleasure’ to attract more visitors to the resort and to create a venue in which to hear music, see plays and meet friends. It is one of the few remaining examples of Victorian seaside architecture, a style dedicated to the late 19th and early 20th-century holidaymakers’ appetite for novelty and entertainment. Designed by Major Henry Augustus Garrett and built not on the pier, as many seaside pavilions were, but adjoining it, The Pavilion combines a mix of Classical and Art Nouveau styles to create a splendid triumph of decorative frivolity. It was in the early 1890s that a local authority committee submitted a report suggesting the building of a pier complete with bandstand, shelters, landing places and a pavilion. However, at the ratepayers’ meeting it was voted to build a pier without the pavilion. Torquay was still, at that time, without a public building suitable for full-scale concerts or large assemblies and, in 1896, a competition was organised for designs for a pavilion. Edward Richards won the prize — 50 guineas — after the entries had been judged by the vice-president of the Institute of British Architects in 1897. Controversy was to dog the scheme, but as hoteliers and traders continued to urge the need for a venue for both summer and winter entertainment, Richards, with H C Goss, drew up further plans which were approved at a public meeting in 1903. But Richards was not to see his plans come to fruition, for he died later that year. Discussion continued, with the issue clouded by the matter of a proposed new town hall, also badly needed to replace the small outdated public offices of 1851 at the foot of Abbey Road. Ex-Mayor Col. Charles Spragge CB, proposed in 1909 that a town hall should be built simultaneously with a pavilion and this proposal was accepted by the council. Subsequently, the proposed plans were used as a basis for the design of a place of entertainment to hold 2000 people. Work began in 1911, some 20 years after the idea of a pavilion had first been discussed and ten years after they had been agreed. The Pavilion was built on a site formed partly from land reclaimed from the sea, on a concrete ‘raft’ weighing 1000 tons and on which a framework of steel stanchions and girders was erected. The facing tiles, in Doulton’s carrara enamelled stoneware, were a very popular building material at the time and were probably used in order to make The Pavilion appear like a white palace. The impressive central copper-covered dome is topped with a full-size figure of Britannia, a symbol of patriotism and imperialism, presented by the then Mayor, Cllr. C T Towell, JP. The two smaller domes at each side of the entrance are surmounted by copper figures of Mercury, messenger and god of eloquence. There is very fine cast ironwork in the ‘art nouveau’ style edging the steps to the promenade deck and the octagonal bandstands (or summerhouses) are also edged with fine cast ironwork in the Victorian decorative tradition. The other decorations on the exterior — swags of flowers, urns topped with pineapples, scrolls, ferns and cherubs’ heads — reflect the Victorian feeling for ornamentation on every available surface. When it was formerly opened in August 1912, contemporary newspaper reports in both the local and national press were enthusiastic. The Pavilion was headlined as ‘Torquay’s Palace of Pleasure’. Inside there was a foyer and an auditorium, with lounges and a café; an elegant atmosphere prevailed, with oak panelling, moulded plasterwork, a curved balcony, stained glass and potted palms, together with an open-air promenade and tea garden. The town then took the important step of founding a municipal orchestra of 25 players, with Basil Cameron as musical director. This was disbanded during the war, but after the war the same musical policy continued. Classical music began to play an increasing part in the life of the town, with morning and afternoon concerts in a ‘Winter Orchestral Season’. Residents of the town still speak enthusiastically of the series of Torquay Music Festivals which brought famous conductors, composers and artistes to The Pavilion, including Sir Henry Wood, Sir Adrian Boult, Sir Edward Elgar, Sir Malcolm Sargeant, Constant Lambert, Dame Nellie Melba, Solomon, Mark Hambourg, Dame Ethel Smythe and many others. The orchestra made its first BBC radio broadcast from The Pavilion at Christmas 1932, and continued to broadcast regularly from then on. The inter-war period was the heyday of The Pavilion. After the 1940s it was used for plays, concerts, bingo and roller skating. Scheduled for demolition in the early 1970s, it was saved by the energetic and enthusiastic efforts of the Friends of The Pavilion, led by Mrs Sheila Hardaway, and listed in 1973 by the DoE as a Class II building of special architectural or historic interest. Its position has made The Pavilion a focal point for holidaymakers and it has also now once again become a focal point and centre of attraction in the town for residents and visitors alike. Re-opened in 1987 as a shopping centre after extensive award-winning restoration work that respects its elegant past, The Pavilion now stands architecturally as it was first conceived. Today The Pavilion retains its Edwardian grace and splendour while fulfilling its rôle as a modern shopping centre. Pavilion Trivia • One hundred years ago the site of The Pavilion was under water and the shoreline was at the front of the Torbay Hotel. The land that now extends to the marina was reclaimed from the sea and The Pavilion built using a special concrete designed to create a foundation 'raft' weighing 1000 tons. • Originally called the 'Cucumber House' at the time of its conception in 1899, The Pavilion became known as 'The White Palace' due to the white tiles that cover the exterior. As a Grade II Listed Building, the tiles are also protected and to replace them today with the same Royal Doulton 'Patent Carrara Ware', a type of terracotta tile, would cost £110 each! • The original cost of building The Pavilion was £16,942 4s 4d and ticket prices were two shillings (10p) for seats in the Grand Hall or Circle in 1912. • The Pavilion was, from 1979 to 1983, operated as an ice rink — although no water or freezing techniques were used. The skating surface was 'Glice', a Belgian invention and made in France from high density ethylene polymer that gave similar qualities to conventional ice but was soft, dry and of ambient temperature. • Amazingly, in the 1970s Torquay Council was set to demolish The Pavilion but local opposition saved the day. —JA/EH. Reprinted from The Pavilion Gazette This text is © Marina Developments Ltd/Jonathan Abery 2003-2007 General telephone queries: 01803 200210 General email enquiries: torquaypavilion@aol.com Want to know more about Torquay? Click links below http://www.torbayhoteldirectory.com http://www.bbc.co.uk/devon/content/image_galleries/south_18_gallery.shtml?15 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torquay http://www.torbytes.co.uk/index.htm http://www.english-riviera.co.uk/indexgo.htm ________________________________________________ The Pavilion offers specialist, independently-owned shops ranging from arts and crafts to giftware and unusual souvenirs making a refreshing alternative to the repetitiveness of high street shops. It is the ideal place to meet up with friends in elegant surroundings at a central location beside the harbour. Open all year, 7 days a week until 5.30pm and until 9.30pm during the summer. Introducing the Pavilion shops... • Terrace Restaurant & Bar The Terrace Bar has fabulous views over the harbour, marina and bay. For a special event (birthday party, wedding reception up to 250 people) there are special function menus from £5.95 per head. A wide staircase leads up to the Terrace and there is a good selection of drinks in the licenced bar. Live music. The Terrace Bar has the best views of the marina and harbour and is the perfect rendezvous. Tel. 01803 211801 • Le Petit Gourmet Le Petit Gourmet sets a relaxed atmosphere under the beautiful ceiling of the Pavilion on the ground floor. Why not stop by for a creamy hot chocolate or frothy cappucino or latte? If you’re feeling more adventurous, sample an Irish Cream Latté to tingle your tastebuds! You can plan days out with our takeaway range and even send delicious Devon Clotted Cream by post. Whether you’re popping in for a quick refreshment, light bite, or just for somewhere to write your postcards, Le Petit Gourmet is the perfect place to relax. Tel 01803 201087. Disabled access - details go to http://www.disabledgo.info/Community.asp?TownID=27 • Therapia Holistic Healthcare & Aromatherapy Gifts Therapia specialises in holistic healthcare products. The Therapia Massage Cushion provides the benefits of a massage at any time or anywhere without the need or cost of a professional therapist. It works on the same principle as a hands-on massage and can be used on any part of the body. • Do you know someone who snores? The Therapia ‘Ultimate Snoring Cure’ utilises the therapeutic properties of the essential oils of lavender in two separate jars. You simply open the jars at night on the bedside table. This snoring cure is ABSOLUTELY GUARANTEED! costs £15 and the jars will last for at least 12 months. But don't take our word for it, see what The Daily Telegraph says: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/main.jhtml?xml=/health/2007/07/30/hsnore130.xml • Hemp essential oil derived from the cannabis plant — the legal alternative! — is a principal ingredient used in Therapia’s herbal remedies formulated for arthritis, eczema, psoriasis and other conditions. Therapia also stock a wide range of aromatherapy gifts and supplies, 40+ essential oils, therapeutic lavender/wheat bags and purple teddies for heating in the microwave. Deep Spirit Music by Robert Nicholas for relaxation, meditation and visualization. New range of microbead cushions. Freephone 0800 0747 319 for mail order or visit our website http://www.therapiaonline.com • Magnetic Care Our 350 designs reflect the growing popularity of therapeutic magnetic and copper jewellery. With a range of bracelets, bangles, rings, necklaces, and many other therapeutic products crafted from sterling silver, titanium and hematite, there is something for everyone with prices to suit every pocket. Freephone 0800 298 4932. email: info@magneticcare.co.uk http://www.magneticcare.co.uk • Blush All your holiday needs and more under one roof! Blush is the ideal place to find a small gift or a larger present to take home for someone, or if you just want to treat yourself! Hair accessories, novelty gifts, perfumes, even basic necessities such as a toothbrush. Huge range of unique football club mobile phone cases and other club paraphernalia. Massive range of mobile phone cases. New range of fashionable and functional hats and headwear for 2008. • Torquay Chandlers Torquay Chandlers provides for the needs of the boatsman; both sail and power. We stock a wide range of chandlery including ropes, fenders, paints and cleaning materials. Our clothing department stocks Henri Lloyd, Musto and Gill waterproofs to keep you dry along with necessities such as shorts and tops to help you look good too. To make sure you are up to date with current technology to keep you safe we stock a range of VHF and GPS. We have a sister shop, The Foc'sle in Topsham where we provide for the dinghy sailor and in Winter keep a wide variety of snow ski clothing. If you can't find what you are looking for in Torquay Chandlers we are more than willing to bring it from Topsham or order it direct from the suppliers. The contents are growing daily but we will never be able to show everything we have in the shops so please phone and ask! As well as supplying goods we also have trained staff who will splice your ropes and fit fenders to your boat or pontoon. Our contact details: 0870 260 2500 barryandchristine@live.co.uk http://www.torquaychandlers.com • Smarteeezzz Sweets A shop bursting full of sweet delights: from pic ’n mix and old-style liquorice, to clotted cream fudge… we stock it all. For those looking for a delicious gift, we have souvenir toffee, and biscuits in sizes to suit all — and don’t forget the Torquay Rock! We also stock a large variety of specialist diabetic chocolate, sweets and biscuits or stop by for one of our succulent Devon ice creams made with real double cream (that’s what makes it taste so good). Just a peep through our door will make your mouth water. 01803 380480 • Steps Footwear & Clothing Stockists of casual wear from Quayside, Sebagom, Chatham & Skipper Marine with many fashion lines from Gant, Tamaris, Ikon and Lunar. Unit 19. 01803 295008. Additional shop at: 12 The Gallery, Fleetwalk Shopping Centre. 01803 213254 • The Towel Shop Fantastic range of towels and linens. Unit 16. 01803 380755 • Mr Gill’s Collectables Take some antiques, add some collectables and include a sprinkling of gifts and you have Mr Gill’s Collectables in the centre of The Pavilion. Mr Gill travels far and wide visiting auctions, flea markets and London importers to select quality items which he can sell at reasonable prices. The stock is constantly changing as many of the goods on sale are individual and unique. The emphasis is on quality china at affordable prices and include Royal Doulton Toby jugs, Staffordshire figures or expensive reproductions and you can be assured of value for money. The shop always has a good selection of novelty teapots from ‘The Teapottery’ in Yorkshire, along with collectible teapots from past decades. It also sells silver-plated items, brass, bottles, sets of glasses and a variety of cut glass, metal signs displaying advertisements of the past, crested china, even small items of furniture. Mr Gill says: “The key to the success of the shop is in me buying items that will resale at a price people can afford.” Unit 11. 01803 299548 • Traditional Chinese Medicine Qualified doctors to solve a wide range of health problems including arthritis, rheumatism, sexual inadequacies, eczema, acne, poor skin conditions, depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, panic attacks, menopause, hot flushes, periodic problems, circulation problems, asthma, hay fever, rhinitis, burning heart, IBS, constipation... 01803 203188 • Busker54 (Unit 12) Bargain Books, Jigsaws, Stationery. JIGSAWS - Huge selection from 4pcs to 18,000pcs in stock from your favourite manufacturers. Gibsons, Ravensburger, House of Puzzles and many more. A large range of accessories and Extra Large piece jigsaws also stocked. BOOKS - From a child's first book to that hard-to-find specialist subject (i.e. The Art of Dowsing) and everything in between. Huge stock of Paperbacks at £2.99 Puzzle Mags at £1.00 with new titles every week CDs - from Classical to Karaoke, Musicals to Uilleann Pipes... all those wonderful memories brought back to life from a time when music was 'real' and you could understand the lyrics! DVDs - yesteryear's TV series: remember the Beverley Hillbillies, Bonanza and I Love Lucy? Or how about Charlie Chaplin, Laurel & Hardy and the Hitchcock thrillers? From Fishing to Reiki - it's all on the shelves. Our stock changes daily so you never know what you'll find. Brian, Helen and friendly staff are always ready to serve you with a smile. Browsers welcome, mail order a pleasure. Tel. 01803 290303. busker54@btconnect.com http://www.busker54.co.uk • Busker54 (Unit 11) Toys, Models and Hobbies TOYS - Party bag fillers to a puppet theatre, and lots of surprises in between. MODELS - Plastic model kits to Radio Control Helicopters plus all the bits and pieces needed by a dedicated modeller. HOBBIES - Art and Craft sets for beginners and the more advanced, cross-stitch, embroidery, tapestry kits and supplies. Artists' supplies/accessories plus much more. Brian, Helen and friendly staff are always ready to serve you with a smile. Browsers welcome, mail order a pleasure. Tel. 01803 298500. busker54@btconnect.com http://www.busker54.co.uk • Lunazzurra COMPLETE THE LOOK ... INSPIRE THE STYLE! - THE HOME OF STYLISH YET FUNCTIONAL WORKS OF ART. We are currently in the process of developing the LUNAZZURRA website where we shall be selling a wide range of exciting, high quality and desirable giftware, home and fashion style accessories, jewellery and unusual greetings cards. We aim to keep good design affordable whilst offering high quality. Everything offered at LUNAZZURRA has been individually selected and, wherever possible, our stock will be sourced from ethical and renewable sources and not generally available in high street chains. Tel. 01803 293930. e:: enquiries@lunazzurra.co.uk http://www.lunazzurra.co.uk/ • Louie's Gems Exquisite collection of jewels and bijouterie and designer handbag. Stockists of Border Fine Arts, Beatrix Potter, Comic Curious Cats, Raynard Estate, Dapper Dogs, Willow Tree and Daisy Chain. Tel. 01803 293259. Visit our website for a large selection of glass-bead jewellery. http://www.louiesgems.com/ • Wicked Wicks Hand-made candles inspired by nature. Exotic and contemporary designs. Free demonstration: watch your candle being made! 01803 292010 • Sacred Space Mind, Body & Spirit Supplies. Tarot readings. Wiccan, Budhism, Feung Shui, Crystals, Divination, Fair Trade clothing and gifts. Details contact Julie or Steve 01803 297848 • Something Special Original and unusual gifts for all occasions including a large selection of collectable fairies, art work and wall art. Find us at the front entrance of the Pavilion in Unit 1. Furtther info contact Karen on 07720 838203. Our fairies and wall art are also available to buy online at http://www.ebaystores.co.uk/somethingdifferentcollectables • Seasonal Shops The Pavilion also hosts a variety of seasonal shops in addition to those featured here. From May to September Keith, The Pavilion’s artist in residence is located in the front alcove/foyer throughout the day and evening. Gary's ArtArt studio: airbrush t-shirt printing and custom design. • Shops To Let. For details of retail opportunities in The Pavilion please call 01803 200210 http://www.marinas.co.uk |
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