Cathcart House, Harrogate

Built in the mid 19th century, this rather modest looking building was a guest house frequented by royal visitors from all over Europe.

The Heritage Plaque by the door mentions that Princess Alix of Hesse, who became the Czarina in1894, stayed here regularly until she was murdered by the Bolsheviks in 1917. A little more information here.

In 1911, the owners were hosts to a tea party attended by Empress Marie of Russia, Queen Alexandra, King Manuel of Spain, Prince Christopher of Greece, Princess Victoria and Grand Duchess George of Russia.

Imagine the cost of security for such a gathering today!