West End Bangalore: One of India’s Oldest Heritage Hotels, 1900 Postcard
A 1900 postcard of the Bronson’s West End Hotel in Bangalore (Bengaluru). It is widely recognized as one of the oldest continuously running heritage hotels in India. Opened in 1887 by the British couple Mr and Mrs Bronson. The hotel began as a modest ten-bed boarding house catering primarily to British officers visiting the cool cantonment town of Bangalore.
As its popularity grew, the property expanded into several elegant buildings surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. The image reflects the graceful colonial architecture of the period. Featuring wide verandas, sloping tiled roofs, and spacious rooms designed to provide comfort in the city’s pleasant climate.
The West End soon earned an international reputation for its comfort and impeccable service. It eventually passed into the hands of Spencer’s in 1912. Spencer’s had a significant role in business both in Madras (Chennai) and Bangalore during the British era. Chiefly in departmental stores, hotels, and the catering business.
By 1984, the hotel was run by the Taj Hotels Group. While the city has grown dramatically around it, much of the property’s historic charm survives, making it one of the few places where visitors can still experience the elegance of British-era Bangalore. Click image to enlarge.
Did you know – the hotel began on Race Course Road, at the ‘West End’ of Bangalore Cantonment, apparently, from where it got its name.
