The Imperial Hotel

The Imperial Hotel at Torquay is an actual hotel which has many links with Agatha Christie. The hotel opened in 1866 and soon became a great success. At one time it was the only 5-star hotel outside London and one of the top hotels in the world. The hotel hosted royalty from across Europe and also Britain's rich and famous who came to sample the sea air for their health.

Agatha Christie grew up near Torquay and would have known the Imperial Hotel well. The hotel is today one of 11 locations along the "Agatha Christie Mile", an itinerary established during her centenary year comprising a set of Christie locations along one mile of Torquay seafront each indicated by a plaque. Unfortunately, the ornate Victorian structure of the hotel which Christie knew was replaced in 1965 by a modern concrete one. However the period interiors were retained and may still be experienced today.

The hotel still operates as the 4-star "The Imperial, Torquay".

The Imperial Hotel in the works of Christie

 * The Body in the Library - the The Majestic Hotel in Danemouth is thought to be inspired by the Imperial.
 * Peril at End House - the The Majestic Hotel in St. Loo is also thought to be inspired by the Imperial, although Christie located St. Loo in Cornwall.
 * Sleeping Murder - in the last chapter, Miss Marple takes the Reeds for a rest cure at the Imperial at Torquay. In a fairly infrequent practice, Christie identifies the hotel and town precisely.