Martin Never ever lose your enthusiasm for the greatness of our Northern past.. we have lost way too much of it to the politicians and their greed.. Keep up the great work!
My parents met at the Refuge in the mid 1950's, they worked several floors apart and sent messages to each other via the pneumatic tube system. Mum remembers having to sit at separate tables in the staff canteen and she also appeared on the stage TWICE, she also recalls there being a pianist. Apparently Dad played snooker there and won the Manchester Evening News Snooker Cue Award around 1955. Mum says she "was young and didn't appreciate the surroundings" , and it is over 60 years later she has again seen inside the building via your video.
Thanks for that Martin brought back some great memories for me. Worked there for 4 years from about 1973 as a junior clerk in the Life Assurance section. Hated the job especially manual filing of hundreds of long thin brown paper envelope files. Loved the building with its majestic staircases and remember the Christmas parties in the dining room. Our office overlooked the Medlock and Oxford Street bridge and i clearly remember looking out each day to see what colour it was as it was so polluted it regularly changed colour depending on what was in it. As a teenager i liked the flexi shifts, start at 10am and finish at 6pm. Straight across the road to the pub for dinner and boozy games of pool before getting the bus back from Oxford Street to New Moston (usually) in the freezing cold rain.
The editing from 1:40 is absolutely brilliant, the coordination with the music is spot on. The whole programme could be 3 hours long and I would've watched every single minute of it. I bet you've only touched on the history of the building. And thanks to Manchester Principle Hotel for showing you around and allowing you to highlight the best bits of the building.
Just watched the rest of it..... speechless. The days when this city was a centre of Industry, Engineering and Commerce..... Wow, you've excelled yourself with this one Martin. People say, you should be on TV, I disagree, You're better than that ! You're a natural and someone that exudes passion for what you do, and where you live ! Top Bloke !!! Roj ( Stockport.... once )
I am from Melbourne, Australia and have recently found your videos of which I am absolutely gobsmackingly appreciative of the insights you give to us all....thankyou Martin & Cos for delivering amazing tours throughout your wonderfully interesting city and what makes these videos capitivating is the immense degree of research you put into deliving these videos....thanks again
I know that there was a Dramatics Society for the Refuge Asssurance employees, and they performed shows in the ballroom. I think it use to be a theatre!
Even though I don't live in Manchester, I find your video's very interesting indeed. I recognise the River Medlock from previous video's that you have presented to us. Thanks for your enthusiasm and research that you have undertaken.
Back in 2004-2007 I had a project that required me to travel to Manchester quite a bit - often for long weekends packed with out-of-hours work. They were doing some renovations on this building at the time, so there were discounted rooms available - bringing it within my meagre travel allowance! I was entranced by this building - it was a wonderful place to stay, with real character. I took a few hours to wander around - finding things like the second floor safe room. Corridors lined with columns, that staircase, and everywhere such beautiful tiling. For one memorable weekend trip, there was a mixup with my booking. The staff were very apologetic and I got put in a second floor room that was obviously an old office - with high ceilings, a fireplace, big windows. Very impressive, and very well converted. I recommended the hotel to a colleague. His verdict? Terrible - because it didn't have a gym! Some people, eh? ;-) He went to stay in a Novotel instead... Thanks for this video - it brought back fond memories of this building. Hopefully I can stay in it again sometime soon!
It's a stunning place where we live. I've seen and been past here 1000s of times and been on the bus looking over at the medlock too. We sometimes don't appreciate what our city as to offer. Great video again mate. Keep up the good work EWC 😁👍
Marvelous video,what craftmaship,very interesting video martin,cant wait to go back to manchester,your city has some great buildings,well done,good video😁❤👍
Had to go there for some interviews / exams back in the late 90’s. All done in a day in different rooms. I remember getting quizzed in a small side room, onto another side room for some mind boggling tests on a computer, then a couple of exams in a bigger room overlooking a railway. I was only in my late teens so had no opinion of the building apart from it being a bit fancy. The day left my mind frazzled. Didn’t get through to the next stage of the process. I must visit again one day after seeing this vid now I appreciate it all
Martin, it is refreshing to see someone engage with their locale. Your interest and enthusiasm is contagious. Kudos for good videos and interesting views of Manchester.
Another great informative vlog Martin. The wealth of that period just pours out in the architecture of these buildings and its great that someone had the foresight to develop it and save it from the demolition guys.
I have no connection to Manchester as I live in Boston, MA but I love your balance of history, video and wit. Thansk for making your city turn to life for outsiders!
wow -- So Clean - everywhere -- no pigeon nests - wall tiles all shining , clock tower too not a speck of anything not built to be there - really glad they kept the safe's - just amazing -- thanks
Brilliant subject Martin and what a culture contrast from railway tunnels and culverts to the great engineering wonders and the opulance of this building. Many many thanks for a wonderful trip around this incredible building. Always enjoy your vids.
Even as a kid with no interest in history, buildings or architecture that place always looked so grand and impressive just going past it on foot or on the bus from town, thanks for showing us around. Very fitting music as well. Another cracking video Martin!
Another Wow Martin, what a treat that was and what a building, loved the brick work and the grand staircase almost reminded me of Gringottes out of Harry Potter. Thanks for sharing keep the good work up 😁😁😁
I’ve never been to Manchester except switching trains at Picadilly station one summer afternoon in 1989. But this hotel is on my bucket list now, such a fantastic and indeed ”grand” building. In your vids you tell the story of Manchester with such passion and engagement I wish I was mancunian too, and to some extent I guess I am now with the knowledge you pass on. Thank you for such great entertainment.
Martin, again a great watch..... I have been watching your fine work for about a year now, were did ALL the red bricks come from, there everywhere. Some day I would love to visit your home town. Keep up the great work.
Another great video Martin. I was there when you were videoing laying out the flags for our St George's Day Lunch, I didn't realise it was you. As I lived in Collyhurst in the 1950-60's I found the videos of the area brought back long forgotten memories. I look forward to more of these videos around Manchester, hope you keep up this great series.
Brilliant, it's fascinating to see inside there. I must've walked past it who knows how many times when I was a kid in the eighties. I always found it quite a scary building.. Always imagined it was full of Dickensian style businessmen. It would've been interesting to have explored it while it was disused.
Another wonderful historic tour of one of Manchester's amazing buildings Martin! 👌 I LOVE the fact that the workers had entertainment while they had their dinner break!! 😁 and I love the outdoor seating area that's been made - I must go for a brew and a bun sometime!!! Beautifully edited 👍🐝
Excellent as ever. Fascinating fact about the clock face. I used to work in St James's Building when it was the head office of the Calico Printer's Association and is worth exploring.
There can't have been many households in Manchester, or even farther away, that didn't pay a couple of shillings to the collector every week. In the 50s when I lived in Withington I remember asking Mac (his name must have been McLeod or MacMillan or some such) how many calls he made in our street. He said all of them. In my little lad logic I thought he was called Mac because he always wore a gaberdine mac. Haha! The Refuge Assurance became rich from those millions of subscriptions. The selling point was that we all die, so why not make some profit. Stash away a little now then grab a load of cash when the loved one kicked the bucket. In the mean time, the Refuge Assurance used our money to gamble on stocks and shares, making a mint of money as we can see in the opulent building, with its thousands of busy workers, some of whom had quite lavish lifestyles.
Yes we also had the Pru. Such a big building was needed because each of those frequent payments had to be recorded manually against the customer's account. Presumably this is why the building was no longer needed in the 1980s as computers began to take over. The colleague who worked there said there were huge "general offices" with rows of clerks entering every payment into ledgers. No calculators to add up the £/s/d in those days!
Radio jonophone. . My grandad had insurance with them for years. Never claimed. l still have the books. If l hired a solicitor will l get his £2.10 and interest back?😨😨
Radio Jonophone Enjoyed very much reading your comments everything very well put. Yes, your probably correct concerning people paying their few shillings payments which then invested on the Stock Markets.
Martin I loved this video!! I have always been fascinated with the history of (well, everything, to be honest) buildings especially when I can see the layers of change which give hints to what they once might have been - this is a wonderful journey! I loved the stories, the architecture, the opulence from what was once derelict and even your special effects were brilliant (loved the images in time with the music and the particular way you did the time lapse with traffic moving in front of the facade of the building! If I was giving a review it would be 5 star!! Thank you! x
I wondered what I was going to do while I have my Sunday Dinner. Uploaded just at the right time. Another great video, great music .... can't wait for the next one.
What a well put together and interesting video. I've been past there many times and not given it much thought, I certainly will next time. Fascinating to see the Medlock winding its way through the buildings almost like the Colorado in the Arizona mountains. That view from the balcony is as beautiful to me as anywhere in the world. Manchester, the city that taught the world how to work.
I am a student currently studying at the University of Manchester. Last year, one of my end-of-year balls was at Kimpton Hotel and it was such an experience. The workers' canteen is magnificent! Thank you for making this video and allowing me to truly appreciate its history and architectural beauties. Now when I recall of my own experience, I can also amusingly imagine the experiences of others before me in this building!
Hello again from Mukilteo, Wa, USA - What I love about your explorer videos is the fact that you not just doing just video where you're at but you attempt to give us as much history as you know. That for me as someone who has never been to Manchester an idea of what it is like to be there and the history surrounding it. Thanks again!
What an beautiful building, the size of some of the rooms is amazing. Another wonderful video please keep them coming. Cheers from Tasmania, Australia 😊
I live a place where heritage was NOT appreciated and simply disregarded. THIS is such a refreshment to the mind. To see such opulence embraced and restored to it's grandeur in a different purpose makes for a very classy city. Kudos to Manchester AND you Martin for once again touring part of what makes your home so vibrant. Cheers.
Love it ....just love this video......pass the refuge many times but never been inside...thanks for sharing this and thanks to the hotel for allowing you to share this.....I have looked at the clock hundreds of times and only now did I realise the bees on the clock.....wonderful stuff.....👍
Posted my comment before the end of the video the clock tower was amazing and I love that little historical area around the Salisbury pub.. steeped in history "little Ireland" something inspiring about that area...
Another WOWZERS!! from me... Been busy with family recently and have missed relaxing with you on your wonderful trips around my old stomping ground... Well now, the iconic, majestic, magical Refuge Assurance building that dominated my comings and goings in Manchester for a good many years... I thoroughly enjoyed The Tour and being able to take in the opulence and grandeur that once was and is still... Thank you again for your time and for sharing with us... Looking forward to the next adventure......
Wow, absolutely stunning. You're right they don't make buildings with that much detail anymore. When they put their minds to it, God did they do it with every detail so precise. Xx
Nice one Martin been past many times and admired the architecture never been inside till today with you👀👀thanks. Will you get round to looking round the Rylands library?
andy haigh yep Rylands Library is like something out of a dream / Harry Potter movie - stunning building- so many buildings are treasures in Manchester 💕
@@sandmanjono1239 We had a look around John Rylands Library a year or so back. I had walked past that beautiful weirdo Gothic building for years and it took me decades to actually get to look inside.
Another brilliant presentation. I so enjoy your videos, and making this one must have been a pleasant change from the many railway, canal and river tunnels that you have taken us to.. May you (and of course us) continue enjoying making these great videos.
Just another absorbing video of the legacy of our great industrial past. Wasn't sure this was a video for me but as always totally hooked by the subject and your presentation. Thanks once again Martin.
Awesome Martin! Do you realize what a service you are doing for Manchester and for Britain?? You bring history to life and that is a rare thing these days! Keep up the good work my friend!
Brilliant, once again you discover another gem, giving its history, a detailed look at architectural details, interesting little anecdotes from both years gone by and the present day oh man, that view of the river, it looks like Palazzo in Venice!!!! all brilliantly filmed and delivered in with a fresh, detail packed enthusiasm you are making me want to move to Manchester!!!!!!! I have to resist, I have home, friends, a full life down here, but really in your hands, Manchester is a mix of Persepolis, Cairo, Ancient Rome, the Industrial Revolution, Birth of the Railways, the Social History of Britain... Brilliant Manchester Tourist Board is missing a trick they need to hire you, full time to make these vids you are a Star mate, well done and thank you
Worked there when it became a hotel from 2013 - 2015 and in 1993 when it was the Charterhouse. 2/3 of the hotel was deralict. I work on both occasions as night porter and we load of problems with break ins. Grand staircase I've heard about 4 different stories now a fifth. One it was the wife of one of the directors caught her husband having a affair so though her self over the edge. Second is the mistress throw her over the banister when the director dumped her. Third was a clerk running late was caught and fired for using the staircase, who in reply jumped over and the last is that when they was installing a bath they were hoisting it up the staircase, rope broke and it fell all they way down, there are dents from near the top floor.
Hi Andrew, yeah I reckon there are many versions to that Ghost story, just thought I would mention one version. Must have been eerie when part of the place was derelict
STUNNING ! Absolutely stunning ..... what a beautiful building . Such beautiful materials used everywhere and the craftsmanship is just outstanding. I think this is my favourite video so far from start to finish . Being s bricky I was blown away by all the brickwork, especially the clock . When you showed the that amazing chandelier near the start I was distracted by the flawless white glazed brickwork behind 😍. The best part is it’s a hotel which we can all see .... not hidden away like many other treasures 👌🏼thanks Martin 👍🏼🧱🧱🧱🧱🧱
Walked past this magnificent building on my way to Central Grammar School - further down Whitworth Street. Martin, you are a very natural historian and you have the gift that all good teachers have - massive enthusiasm for your subject. Many thanks , Barry Anderton
Martin i ADORE you! We have missed tou but its worth the wait! I just LOVE your enthusiasm and appreciation of history. THANK YOU. Your fan base from PERU
Another Superb production Martin, what a beautiful building, the Victorians really took pride in their architecture & knew how to make their buildings look imposing, a complete contrast to many of today's boring office blocks! I love all the multi coloured glazed brickwork inside, a similar style to many of the London Underground stations. Impressive staircase & safe strongrooms too. Back in the 1970's my mum had a couple of life assurance policies with the Refuge, including a childs one for me! I can still remember the little booklets which were signed by the 'assurance man', when he made the monthly visit to collect the premiums. The company went through several name changes & takeovers & eventually became what is now 'Royal London', I've still got a policy with them today!
Loved that video, thanks. My Dad worked at the Refuge all his life and in that building from 1958 until they moved to Wilmslow. Those safes weren't for money but they kept the records of all their insurance cover and other transactions in there. He'd love to tell you more if you're interested. He used to be the General Manager there at the peak of his career - that may even have been his office you took us round. Thanks again for this and all your other films.
Apologies for taking some time to watch this. This really showcases the grand building's we all drive past every day, but never have a clue whats behind the doors. Brilliant mate, regards Paul.
The view of Oxford Road Station was good to see . I used to take the train to Altrincham from there when I was a little lad in the 50s after a day in town with me Mum. You know - Lewis's, UCP tripe shop, eating a quarter of broken biscuits from Woolworth's in a brown paper bag sitting in Picadilly Gardens.
Another Great Video of a very Grand Building.. I'm so pleased that it is used and being well taken care of. I love your passion and enthusiasm for this sort of interest.
Brilliant brought back special memories worked at the Refuge from 1972 to 1979 started in the general accounts department and worked on the Main Reception beautiful building
Man the amount of times I’ve walked past this building and never known... your videos make me appreciate manny so much more mate, hidden history!! Thanks so much
Hi Martin Love your videos and I have commented a couple of times on previous topics.Then I saw this particular one on the Palace hotel, and the memories flooded back. I was the maintenance manager here on two separate occasions the most recent was back in about 2013.It is an amazing building which I know top to bottom. I could tell you a tale or two about this place good and bad. Your video brought the memories pouring back , nice one mate.
Martin it seems like forever since your last video but this one more than made up for the wait. I am at a loss for words to express the beauty and grandness of this structure. I have loved and re-watched all of your videos but I think this one tops the list currently. Due to my advanced age of 68 years and a few handicaps I am unable to travel but if able I would dearly love to visit Manchester based on your awe inspiring videos. Please keep up the fantastic videos. Love to you.
Hello kathy thanks very much for watching the videos and your lovely comment. Yes I had an unexpected gap in editing. But yes this building holds a special place in my heart
Truly amazing...once worked close to this building and always wondered what was inside (before it become a hotel) Thanks and look forward to your next amazing history of Manchester
We are so lucky to have these grand old buildings, the walls that tell so much. Thanks for doing the video Martin, you can tell you are passionate about your history and architecture👍
Brilliant building it is true to say that Manchester has some of the finest buildings anywhere. I loved the inside and outside equally, another great video Martin really enjoy your work the presentation is top notch it captures the audience as it should, history of the building is great, wish I was entertained at lunch time, I have a working lunch at my desk everyday..
Cycled countless times past this building in the 90s when I was at the poly. Was pretty run down then. Amazing to see inside in such glory. Thanks for your time and effort in bringing it to a wider public, Martin!
Crazy as it may sound after exploring such a magnificent building, but the bit that touched me the most was the bees on the clockface. What a stunning detail. We couldn't build a building like that if we tried these days. I can pretty much guarantee that no modern built building will still be standing in 100 hundred years and look as good as this.
Martin
Never ever lose your enthusiasm for the greatness of our Northern past.. we have lost way too much of it to the politicians and their greed..
Keep up the great work!
Thanks David
My parents met at the Refuge in the mid 1950's, they worked several floors apart and sent messages to each other via the pneumatic tube system. Mum remembers having to sit at separate tables in the staff canteen and she also appeared on the stage TWICE, she also recalls there being a pianist. Apparently Dad played snooker there and won the Manchester Evening News Snooker Cue Award around 1955.
Mum says she "was young and didn't appreciate the surroundings" , and it is over 60 years later she has again seen inside the building via your video.
Wow Julie thats amazing. Thats a fab story thanks very much. You must give your parents my regards 👌
Thanks for that Martin brought back some great memories for me. Worked there for 4 years from about 1973 as a junior clerk in the Life Assurance section. Hated the job especially manual filing of hundreds of long thin brown paper envelope files. Loved the building with its majestic staircases and remember the Christmas parties in the dining room. Our office overlooked the Medlock and Oxford Street bridge and i clearly remember looking out each day to see what colour it was as it was so polluted it regularly changed colour depending on what was in it. As a teenager i liked the flexi shifts, start at 10am and finish at 6pm. Straight across the road to the pub for dinner and boozy games of pool before getting the bus back from Oxford Street to New Moston (usually) in the freezing cold rain.
Cheers Tom great memories
The editing from 1:40 is absolutely brilliant, the coordination with the music is spot on. The whole programme could be 3 hours long and I would've watched every single minute of it. I bet you've only touched on the history of the building. And thanks to Manchester Principle Hotel for showing you around and allowing you to highlight the best bits of the building.
Thank you very much. Yes there is much more I only touched on the easily available info to be honest
Just watched the rest of it..... speechless. The days when this city was a centre of Industry, Engineering and Commerce..... Wow, you've excelled yourself with this one Martin.
People say, you should be on TV, I disagree, You're better than that ! You're a natural and someone that exudes passion for what you do, and where you live ! Top Bloke !!!
Roj ( Stockport.... once )
I am from Melbourne, Australia and have recently found your videos of which I am absolutely gobsmackingly appreciative of the insights you give to us all....thankyou Martin & Cos for delivering amazing tours throughout your wonderfully interesting city and what makes these videos capitivating is the immense degree of research you put into deliving these videos....thanks again
Thank you very much Deborah. Nice to see the videos being watched so far away
I know that there was a Dramatics Society for the Refuge Asssurance employees, and they performed shows in the ballroom. I think it use to be a theatre!
Even though I don't live in Manchester, I find your video's very interesting indeed.
I recognise the River Medlock from previous video's that you have presented to us.
Thanks for your enthusiasm and research that you have undertaken.
Thank you very much Roy
Back in 2004-2007 I had a project that required me to travel to Manchester quite a bit - often for long weekends packed with out-of-hours work. They were doing some renovations on this building at the time, so there were discounted rooms available - bringing it within my meagre travel allowance!
I was entranced by this building - it was a wonderful place to stay, with real character. I took a few hours to wander around - finding things like the second floor safe room. Corridors lined with columns, that staircase, and everywhere such beautiful tiling.
For one memorable weekend trip, there was a mixup with my booking. The staff were very apologetic and I got put in a second floor room that was obviously an old office - with high ceilings, a fireplace, big windows. Very impressive, and very well converted.
I recommended the hotel to a colleague. His verdict? Terrible - because it didn't have a gym! Some people, eh? ;-) He went to stay in a Novotel instead...
Thanks for this video - it brought back fond memories of this building. Hopefully I can stay in it again sometime soon!
Hello Philip thanks for the info fascinating. A Novotel.....his loss 😀
Id trade a gym and do body exercises to stay in this beauty. Even better...not bother exercising at all ;)
absolutely brilliant production. so profesional. I'd watch your presentations any day rather than the TV channels. Very well done indeed
Thanks very much. It makes it all worthwhile when you say that 👍
It's a stunning place where we live. I've seen and been past here 1000s of times and been on the bus looking over at the medlock too. We sometimes don't appreciate what our city as to offer. Great video again mate. Keep up the good work EWC 😁👍
I used to pass that when i worked at Lewis's, has to be one of the most impressive building's in the world
Marvelous video,what craftmaship,very interesting video martin,cant wait to go back to manchester,your city has some great buildings,well done,good video😁❤👍
Cheers Kenneth
What a mind blowing building, thank you so much for bringing this to our screens Martin! 👌
Thanks Adam, yes I agree, Mind blowing
Had to go there for some interviews / exams back in the late 90’s. All done in a day in different rooms. I remember getting quizzed in a small side room, onto another side room for some mind boggling tests on a computer, then a couple of exams in a bigger room overlooking a railway. I was only in my late teens so had no opinion of the building apart from it being a bit fancy. The day left my mind frazzled. Didn’t get through to the next stage of the process. I must visit again one day after seeing this vid now I appreciate it all
I think I have been on similar days. yeah go back, you can just go in for a drink
WOW WOW what can I say.. This is mouthdropping. We have never seen anything like this. Thank you for sending this to us.
Thank you very much, yes stunning building
Martin, it is refreshing to see someone engage with their locale. Your interest and enthusiasm is contagious. Kudos for good videos and interesting views of Manchester.
Thanks very much Dale
Another great informative vlog Martin. The wealth of that period just pours out in the architecture of these buildings and its great that someone had the foresight to develop it and save it from the demolition guys.
I have no connection to Manchester as I live in Boston, MA but I love your balance of history, video and wit. Thansk for making your city turn to life for outsiders!
Thanks very much Jamie
Martin you have to be proud that you live in the most historical city of Manchester.
Love from IRAQ.
Thank you, yes I am. best regards to you in Iraq 👌
wow -- So Clean - everywhere -- no pigeon nests - wall tiles all shining , clock tower too not a speck of anything not built to be there - really glad they kept the safe's - just amazing -- thanks
Yes Roy its such a great place and well preserved
Brilliant subject Martin and what a culture contrast from railway tunnels and culverts to the great engineering wonders and the opulance of this building. Many many thanks for a wonderful trip around this incredible building. Always enjoy your vids.
Thank you very much John
Even as a kid with no interest in history, buildings or architecture that place always looked so grand and impressive just going past it on foot or on the bus from town, thanks for showing us around. Very fitting music as well.
Another cracking video Martin!
Thanks very much. Must admit I have walked past many times myself so it was great to go inside
Another Wow Martin, what a treat that was and what a building, loved the brick work and the grand staircase almost reminded me of Gringottes out of Harry Potter. Thanks for sharing keep the good work up 😁😁😁
I’ve never been to Manchester except switching trains at Picadilly station one summer afternoon in 1989. But this hotel is on my bucket list now, such a fantastic and indeed ”grand” building. In your vids you tell the story of Manchester with such passion and engagement I wish I was mancunian too, and to some extent I guess I am now with the knowledge you pass on. Thank you for such great entertainment.
Thanks very much, come back and visit
Perfection. Your videos are so well done, Sir! Thanks for the delightful tour!
Martin, again a great watch..... I have been watching your fine work for about a year now, were did ALL the red bricks come from, there everywhere. Some day I would love to visit your home town. Keep up the great work.
Thanks Mike, if you look at the old maps, Brickworks everywhere
Outstanding work.
2nd floor safes
The weight wow ! !
Strong floors.
Well done Martin.
Another great video Martin. I was there when you were videoing laying out the flags for our St George's Day Lunch, I didn't realise it was you. As I lived in Collyhurst in the 1950-60's I found the videos of the area brought back long forgotten memories. I look forward to more of these videos around Manchester, hope you keep up this great series.
Brilliant, it's fascinating to see inside there. I must've walked past it who knows how many times when I was a kid in the eighties. I always found it quite a scary building.. Always imagined it was full of Dickensian style businessmen.
It would've been interesting to have explored it while it was disused.
Thanks for playing the Danse Macabre so many times. Now it will be stuck in my head forever.
Good, its a great tune
Another wonderful historic tour of one of Manchester's amazing buildings Martin! 👌 I LOVE the fact that the workers had entertainment while they had their dinner break!! 😁 and I love the outdoor seating area that's been made - I must go for a brew and a bun sometime!!! Beautifully edited 👍🐝
Excellent as ever. Fascinating fact about the clock face. I used to work in St James's Building when it was the head office of the Calico Printer's Association and is worth exploring.
Sounds good Clive, there are so many to do
Thank you, Martin. My dad would have loved to see it now. He worked in the offices in the 1970s
Thanks Clair, yes its great that you can just go in. So your dad was a Refuge assurance employee 👌
@@MartinZero That's right!
Awesome and really exciting video ! I’m smiling just as much you were in Vid pal!👍
Thanks Jowad, great place 😀
Love your enthusiasm and your passion for Manchester. It shows in all of your work. Beautiful building.
Thanks Sharon, yeah i do get a bit giddy
One man and a video camera can produce short documentaries on a par with (if not better than) the proffesionals. Another great video Martin...
My favourite building in Manchester! Excellent video!
Thank you, yes its my favourite as well
The brickwork is absolutely perfect. I would love to visit there.
Yes its a thing of beauty
There can't have been many households in Manchester, or even farther away, that didn't pay a couple of shillings to the collector every week. In the 50s when I lived in Withington I remember asking Mac (his name must have been McLeod or MacMillan or some such) how many calls he made in our street. He said all of them. In my little lad logic I thought he was called Mac because he always wore a gaberdine mac. Haha!
The Refuge Assurance became rich from those millions of subscriptions. The selling point was that we all die, so why not make some profit. Stash away a little now then grab a load of cash when the loved one kicked the bucket. In the mean time, the Refuge Assurance used our money to gamble on stocks and shares, making a mint of money as we can see in the opulent building, with its thousands of busy workers, some of whom had quite lavish lifestyles.
The Prudential was another one. "The man from the Pru"
Yep absolutely , we had the man from the Pru
Yes we also had the Pru. Such a big building was needed because each of those frequent payments had to be recorded manually against the customer's account. Presumably this is why the building was no longer needed in the 1980s as computers began to take over. The colleague who worked there said there were huge "general offices" with rows of clerks entering every payment into ledgers. No calculators to add up the £/s/d in those days!
Radio jonophone. . My grandad had insurance with them for years. Never claimed.
l still have the books. If l hired a solicitor will l get his £2.10 and interest back?😨😨
Radio Jonophone Enjoyed very much reading your comments everything very well put.
Yes, your probably correct concerning people paying their few shillings payments
which then invested on the Stock Markets.
Martin I loved this video!! I have always been fascinated with the history of (well, everything, to be honest) buildings especially when I can see the layers of change which give hints to what they once might have been - this is a wonderful journey! I loved the stories, the architecture, the opulence from what was once derelict and even your special effects were brilliant (loved the images in time with the music and the particular way you did the time lapse with traffic moving in front of the facade of the building! If I was giving a review it would be 5 star!! Thank you! x
Thank you so very much. really appreciate your comment. I love this building 😀👍
I wondered what I was going to do while I have my Sunday Dinner. Uploaded just at the right time. Another great video, great music .... can't wait for the next one.
Cheers hope dinner was good
@@MartinZero Dinner was good, but not as good as your video. Thoroughly enjoyable; your video, not my dinner, that is.
I live in America and really enjoy your videos.
Excellent history Martin. Brilliant videography and editing as well 😀👍
What a well put together and interesting video. I've been past there many times and not given it much thought, I certainly will next time. Fascinating to see the Medlock winding its way through the buildings almost like the Colorado in the Arizona mountains. That view from the balcony is as beautiful to me as anywhere in the world. Manchester, the city that taught the world how to work.
Thanks Martin. I've walked past that building so many times and wondered what it was like inside. Thank you!...and keep them coming!!
Thank you Tony
I am a student currently studying at the University of Manchester. Last year, one of my end-of-year balls was at Kimpton Hotel and it was such an experience. The workers' canteen is magnificent! Thank you for making this video and allowing me to truly appreciate its history and architectural beauties. Now when I recall of my own experience, I can also amusingly imagine the experiences of others before me in this building!
God that Staircase! 😍 makes me want to go & get some pics right now 🙂 Thanks Martin that’s a lovely upload
Hello again from Mukilteo, Wa, USA - What I love about your explorer videos is the fact that you not just doing just video where you're at but you attempt to give us as much history as you know. That for me as someone who has never been to Manchester an idea of what it is like to be there and the history surrounding it. Thanks again!
Thank you Jason really appreciate it
'I could just crack out a cup of tea.' I think that's the most British and northern thing I've ever heard. 👍🤣 Another great video Martin.
Best drink of the day 😆👍
What an beautiful building, the size of some of the rooms is amazing. Another wonderful video please keep them coming. Cheers from Tasmania, Australia 😊
Thanks Catherine, yes a gem this one
Excellent Martin! Absolutely splendid building from start to finish 😁👍🏻
🇪🇪
I live a place where heritage was NOT appreciated and simply disregarded. THIS is such a refreshment to the mind. To see such opulence embraced and restored to it's grandeur in a different purpose makes for a very classy city. Kudos to Manchester AND you Martin for once again touring part of what makes your home so vibrant. Cheers.
Thank you Christopher, yes I am totally .enthralled by this beautiful building
I cannot imagine visiting your city. I'd never want to leave...
What an amazing building. We ate there before going to see Les Mis a few months ago. I thought it was beautiful then.
Love it ....just love this video......pass the refuge many times but never been inside...thanks for sharing this and thanks to the hotel for allowing you to share this.....I have looked at the clock hundreds of times and only now did I realise the bees on the clock.....wonderful stuff.....👍
Great video Martin, please hurry with the next one - always looking forward to you uploading!
Thank you, working on the nex,t now 👍
Posted my comment before the end of the video the clock tower was amazing and I love that little historical area around the Salisbury pub.. steeped in history "little Ireland" something inspiring about that area...
As featured in "Hell is a city" classic British film noir, made in 1960 starring Stanley Baker and of course Manchester itself.
Another WOWZERS!! from me... Been busy with family recently and have missed relaxing with you on your wonderful trips around my old stomping ground... Well now, the iconic, majestic, magical Refuge Assurance building that dominated my comings and goings in Manchester for a good many years... I thoroughly enjoyed The Tour and being able to take in the opulence and grandeur that once was and is still... Thank you again for your time and for sharing with us... Looking forward to the next adventure......
Thank you Sylvia
So excited to see your new video! I was about to have Martin/Manchester withdrawal lol
Ha, thanks Scott, more to come 👍
Wow, absolutely stunning. You're right they don't make buildings with that much detail anymore. When they put their minds to it, God did they do it with every detail so precise. Xx
Nice one Martin been past many times and admired the architecture never been inside till today with you👀👀thanks. Will you get round to looking round the Rylands library?
andy haigh yep Rylands Library is like something out of a dream / Harry Potter movie - stunning building- so many buildings are treasures in Manchester 💕
@@sandmanjono1239 We had a look around John Rylands Library a year or so back. I had walked past that beautiful weirdo Gothic building for years and it took me decades to actually get to look inside.
This would be a great video!!
Rylands grave is in southern cemetery. Worth a look or google.
Central library would be good as well.
Another brilliant presentation. I so enjoy your videos, and making this one must have been a pleasant change from the many railway, canal and river tunnels that you have taken us to.. May you (and of course us) continue enjoying making these great videos.
I once had a job interview in that ballroom. I didn't get it, but at least I got to see the incredible architecture
Wow what a place for a job interview 👍
Just another absorbing video of the legacy of our great industrial past. Wasn't sure this was a video for me but as always totally hooked by the subject and your presentation. Thanks once again Martin.
Thanks very much Ray yes fascinating building
"We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us."
We don't build anything like this any more. It's sad.
Awesome Martin! Do you realize what a service you are doing for Manchester and for Britain?? You bring history to life and that is a rare thing these days! Keep up the good work my friend!
Thank you Michelle thats very kind of you.
MDCCCXCIII is 1893 in Roman Numbers
Ahh ok thanks
Brilliant, once again you discover another gem, giving its history, a detailed look at architectural details, interesting little anecdotes from both years gone by and the present day oh man, that view of the river, it looks like Palazzo in Venice!!!! all brilliantly filmed and delivered in with a fresh, detail packed enthusiasm you are making me want to move to Manchester!!!!!!! I have to resist, I have home, friends, a full life down here, but really in your hands, Manchester is a mix of Persepolis, Cairo, Ancient Rome, the Industrial Revolution, Birth of the Railways, the Social History of Britain... Brilliant Manchester Tourist Board is missing a trick they need to hire you, full time to make these vids you are a Star mate, well done and thank you
Thank you so much. You sum up the way I feel about the place 💙
Worked there when it became a hotel from 2013 - 2015 and in 1993 when it was the Charterhouse. 2/3 of the hotel was deralict. I work on both occasions as night porter and we load of problems with break ins.
Grand staircase I've heard about 4 different stories now a fifth. One it was the wife of one of the directors caught her husband having a affair so though her self over the edge. Second is the mistress throw her over the banister when the director dumped her. Third was a clerk running late was caught and fired for using the staircase, who in reply jumped over and the last is that when they was installing a bath they were hoisting it up the staircase, rope broke and it fell all they way down, there are dents from near the top floor.
Hi Andrew, yeah I reckon there are many versions to that Ghost story, just thought I would mention one version. Must have been eerie when part of the place was derelict
STUNNING ! Absolutely stunning ..... what a beautiful building . Such beautiful materials used everywhere and the craftsmanship is just outstanding. I think this is my favourite video so far from start to finish . Being s bricky I was blown away by all the brickwork, especially the clock . When you showed the that amazing chandelier near the start I was distracted by the flawless white glazed brickwork behind 😍. The best part is it’s a hotel which we can all see .... not hidden away like many other treasures 👌🏼thanks Martin 👍🏼🧱🧱🧱🧱🧱
Thanks Guys, I thought you may appreciate that brickwork 😀👌
YEP ! absolutely 👌🏼👍🏼🧱
Does anyone else suddenly want to watch an episode of Johnathon Creek?
yes :)
I did expect Alan Davies to show up. .. ;)
Or the ancient cartoon of the dancing skeletons they used to show on TV sometimes. That's how I first heard that music.
😀👍
Another fascinating, well researched video... So glad I found your channel. Thank you for these gems.
Walked past this magnificent building on my way to Central Grammar School - further down Whitworth Street. Martin, you are a very natural historian and you have the gift that all good teachers have - massive enthusiasm for your subject. Many thanks , Barry Anderton
Back then, people actually care about what they crafted and saw it as a piece of art. Unlike today where everything is kept simple for profit. :(
Fantastic and highly enjoyable video! Great work!
Thanks Julie
Another superb piece to be proud of Martin. Well done, you captured this beautiful local landmark with so much detail and enthusiasm as usual
Thanks very much Steve
refuge has and will always be one of my favourites in manchester, what a stunning piece of architecture!
What a fantastic beautiful building !! Thanks for showing us around. Super video. Cheers
Thanks very much Dave
Martin i ADORE you! We have missed tou but its worth the wait! I just LOVE your enthusiasm and appreciation of history. THANK YOU. Your fan base from PERU
Hello Sharon and hello everyone in Peru, sorry I had a break in the videos, am back now 😀👍
Another brilliant video Martin. What a fantastic building! Great tie up with the River Medlock too.
Thanks Andy, yeah I couldn't resist bringing the Medlock in 😃
Another Superb production Martin, what a beautiful building, the Victorians really took pride in their architecture & knew how to make their buildings look imposing, a complete contrast to many of today's boring office blocks! I love all the multi coloured glazed brickwork inside, a similar style to many of the London Underground stations.
Impressive staircase & safe strongrooms too.
Back in the 1970's my mum had a couple of life assurance policies with the Refuge, including a childs one for me! I can still remember the little booklets which were signed by the 'assurance man', when he made the monthly visit to collect the premiums. The company went through several name changes & takeovers & eventually became what is now 'Royal London', I've still got a policy with them today!
Wow, I remember our Insurance man as well he was called Brian . But yes a fabulous building
Loved that video, thanks. My Dad worked at the Refuge all his life and in that building from 1958 until they moved to Wilmslow. Those safes weren't for money but they kept the records of all their insurance cover and other transactions in there.
He'd love to tell you more if you're interested. He used to be the General Manager there at the peak of his career - that may even have been his office you took us round. Thanks again for this and all your other films.
Apologies for taking some time to watch this. This really showcases the grand building's we all drive past every day, but never have a clue whats behind the doors. Brilliant mate, regards Paul.
A fascinating look at a well known yet little known about building delivered with that infectious enthusiasm. Another gem Martin.
Thanks very much Nick
What a tour, Martin. Thank you for sharing the history and spectacular architecture of this amazing building! Video/music/editing are spot on.
Thanks very much Simon, yes great place
This is probably your best production, the choice of music and its use was fantastic. I want to stay in the hotel.
Thank you, I still want to stay there
I won't ask if the burger& etc. was gratis, but it should have been considering what an excellent job you have done showcasing their fantastic hotel.
I paid for the burger and thanks very much 👍
The view of Oxford Road Station was good to see . I used to take the train to Altrincham from there when I was a little lad in the 50s after a day in town with me Mum. You know - Lewis's, UCP tripe shop, eating a quarter of broken biscuits from Woolworth's in a brown paper bag sitting in Picadilly Gardens.
Cant beat it 😆👍 Tripe 😳
Another Great Video of a very Grand Building.. I'm so pleased that it is used and being well taken care of.
I love your passion and enthusiasm for this sort of interest.
Thanks Paul. yes its truly a success story the way its being used
Brilliant brought back special memories worked at the Refuge from 1972 to 1979 started in the general accounts department and worked on the Main Reception beautiful building
Absolutely brilliant Martin was well worth the wait, more more, please.
Man the amount of times I’ve walked past this building and never known... your videos make me appreciate manny so much more mate, hidden history!! Thanks so much
Hi Martin
Love your videos and I have commented a couple of times on previous topics.Then I saw this particular one on the Palace hotel, and the memories flooded back. I was the maintenance manager here on two separate occasions the most recent was back in about 2013.It is an amazing building which I know top to bottom. I could tell you a tale or two about this place good and bad.
Your video brought the memories pouring back , nice one mate.
Hi Clive thanks very much. How I wish I would of had you there on the day it would have been brilliant to hear your stories. Thanks again 👍
Martin it seems like forever since your last video but this one more than made up for the wait. I am at a loss for words to express the beauty and grandness of this structure. I have loved and re-watched all of your videos but I think this one tops the list currently. Due to my advanced age of 68 years and a few handicaps I am unable to travel but if able I would dearly love to visit Manchester based on your awe inspiring videos. Please keep up the fantastic videos. Love to you.
Hello kathy thanks very much for watching the videos and your lovely comment. Yes I had an unexpected gap in editing. But yes this building holds a special place in my heart
Truly amazing...once worked close to this building and always wondered what was inside (before it become a hotel) Thanks and look forward to your next amazing history of Manchester
Thanks very much Nik
We are so lucky to have these grand old buildings, the walls that tell so much. Thanks for doing the video Martin, you can tell you are passionate about your history and architecture👍
Thank you Pamela. Yeah I do love the place
Brilliant building it is true to say that Manchester has some of the finest buildings anywhere. I loved the inside and outside equally, another great video Martin really enjoy your work the presentation is top notch it captures the audience as it should, history of the building is great, wish I was entertained at lunch time, I have a working lunch at my desk everyday..
Thank you Jo
Hi Martin, another amazing video. You have a knack of capturing to right tone for each subject you cover. Cheers again
Thanks very much 👍
Cycled countless times past this building in the 90s when I was at the poly. Was pretty run down then. Amazing to see inside in such glory. Thanks for your time and effort in bringing it to a wider public, Martin!
Thank you Simon
That's a stunning building and such a fascinating history, many thanks Martin for bringing Manchester's history alive.
Thanks very much Steve
Crazy as it may sound after exploring such a magnificent building, but the bit that touched me the most was the bees on the clockface. What a stunning detail. We couldn't build a building like that if we tried these days. I can pretty much guarantee that no modern built building will still be standing in 100 hundred years and look as good as this.