Historic Welsh Hotel Turns into the Set for New BBC Series
In a thrilling turn of events, a grand historical Welsh hotel will be the backdrop for the upcoming BBC Two series, Chess Masters: The Endgame. The show, which aims to discover the next chess prodigy through intense head-to-head matches, has chosen The Coal Exchange in Cardiff as its filming location. Situated near the scenic Cardiff Bay, The Coal Exchange is a majestic building that exudes history both inside and out.
The Coal Exchange prides itself as a boutique luxury hotel where traditional Welsh heritage seamlessly blends with modern comfort. Promoting itself as more than just a place to rest one’s head, the hotel promises an immersive experience to all its guests. This Grade II listed building holds a unique place in history as the former epicentre of the global coal trade, famously witnessing the world’s first £1 million deal back in the day.
The grand ballroom of The Coal Exchange, where Chess Masters: The Endgame is shot, provides a stunning backdrop for the intense chess battles that unfold on screen. The ornate ceilings, magnificent chandeliers, and sweeping staircases in the ballroom add an air of grandeur to the series as contestants strategize their every move. Originally built between 1884 and 1888, The Coal Exchange was initially established as a pivotal trading hub for Welsh coal, hosting transactions worth millions of pounds daily.
During its prime, The Coal Exchange welcomed over 10,000 coal traders, shipowners, and businessmen through its doors daily, solidifying its position as one of the world’s most significant financial centres. The historical significance of this building peaked in 1904 when it facilitated the ground-breaking world’s first £1 million business deal, cementing Cardiff’s global reputation as a leading coal-exporting port.
As time evolved, so did the fate of Cardiff’s coal industry, leading to a decline post World War I due to diminishing international demand for coal. The final blow came in the 1960s and 70s as the coal mining industry in South Wales faced steep competition from alternative energy sources, ultimately leading to the demise of The Coal Exchange as the need for such establishments dwindled.
However, the early 2000s saw a resurgence in interest in revitalizing Cardiff Bay, with The Coal Exchange earmarked for restoration. The once-abandoned building, which stood as a mere shell of its former self, was meticulously transformed into a luxurious hotel while preserving its rich heritage. The restoration efforts breathed new life into the historic structure, reclaiming its status as a symbol of Cardiff’s illustrious past.
In the year 2024, the hotel underwent renovations and refurbishments during the closure period from January to March, overseen by freeholder Eden Grove Developments. The operator Coal Exchange Hotel LLP took back possession of the building, ensuring that the historical significance and grandeur of The Coal Exchange continue to be upheld for generations to come.
As The Coal Exchange steps into the limelight once again, serving as the stunning backdrop for a high-stakes chess competition on national television, it stands as a testament to the enduring charm and timeless appeal of Wales’ historical landmarks. The blending of history, luxury, and modernity at this iconic location encapsulates the spirit of Wales, making it a fitting backdrop for the search for the next Chess Master on BBC Two.