BLUE PLAQUE HOTEL

"The pure, clear and sparkling liquid that gushes from Ilkley Hills is not less exhilarating and is much more wholesome, than manufactured champagne.." Capt. J.K. Lukis, 'Common Sense of the Water Cure', 1857

Hydropathy was discovered by a Silesian peasant called Priessnitz who believed that by immersing the body in cold water or applying wet compresses to affected parts of the body "morbid matters" were driven out. It was believed that the colder the water the greater the effect.

The Craiglands was built in 1859 and was one of the largest and most finely situated pupose-built hydropathic establishments in the country. The first proprietors were the Dobson Brothers, one of the brothers being Dr Henry Dobson, a physician, who supervised all the treatments offered to patients. These included mustard pads, massage, and all the latest Turkish, Russian and Electro-Chemical baths. The systems, coupled with the "tonic" air from the moors had the effect of enhancing the popularity of this splendid hydro.

The beautiful grounds were laid out with special attention to the requirements of invalids during the summer season and included croquet, lawn tennis and a bowling alley. There was also a large recreational hall for indoor sports, public concerts and theatrical performances.

Towards the end of the century the popularity of the hydros began to wane and after the First World War the emphasis turned more towards Ilkley as a holiday resort. One recent visitor recalled her visit to the hotel as a child during the Second World War and described her delight at being offered a fresh orange. She also noted that at that time the Craiglands still boasted a Turkish Bath.

On a personal note my wife remembers her Grandmother conversing at the Craiglands during the 1950's, she thinks it was used as a good place to cure Tuberculosis in the days when they would wrap you up and stick your bed on the terrace to clear your lungs!