Opened in 1926 and originally called the “Bath Assembly Hall”, the building is typical of the 1920s Art Deco style.  It was funded by Birmingham entrepeneur Elsie Dowding and designed by Birmingham architect Horace Bradley. It became renamed the “Palais de Danse” in keeping with many similar purpose built venues around the country. In the 1920s the waltz, foxtrot and quickstep were all popular and each ‘Palais’ had its own particular group dance called the ‘Palais Glide’. Music at Leamington’s Palais was provided by the Jack Southern Band and a local dancer – Robert Creelman – was the master of ceremonies.

The Palais also held competitions, demonstrations, theme nights and old time dances – catering for a varied audience. Dancing continued throughout the 1930s and 1940s and there were special reduced rates for members of the armed forces – including American servicemen.  In 1952 it was renamed the Embassy Ballroom and continued to hold dances and corporate events – including Christmas Balls for local regiments and barracks. After a period of closure it was taken over by Gala Bingo, but closed down some years later following the introduction of new EU regulations.  The vision to reopen the building came in 2006 and after a short period of renovation and design by Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen to recreate its Art Deco origins with a contemporary look and practicality of purpose – it is once more operating as it was originally intended.