Australia’s rich history is not just preserved in museums and galleries but also in its historic hotels, where stories from the past century come to life.
Here’s a look at the ten oldest hotels in Australia, each brimming with charm and history.
9 Oldest Hotels in Australia
9. The Grosvenor Hotel
City Location: Adelaide, South Australia
Year Established: 1920
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Mercure Grosvenor Hotel in Adelaide represents the city’s 20th-century architectural ambitions. Located on the bustling North Terrace, it offers a historically rich environment combined with the convenience of modern amenities.
The building’s facade features intricate stonework and classic Art Deco elements typical of the early 20th century. Inside, the hotel has maintained much of its historical charm through careful preservation efforts, while also integrating modern technology and comforts to enhance guest experiences.
Did You Know?
Originally, the Mercure Grosvenor Hotel was part of a grander plan to establish a “hotel row” on North Terrace, aimed at transforming Adelaide into a tourist hub comparable to Melbourne and Sydney.
While the full vision was never realized due to economic downturns and changing priorities, the Grosvenor remains a significant piece of Adelaide’s hospitality history, offering a glimpse into the grandeur that was once envisaged for the area.
8. The Old Clare Hotel
City Location: Sydney, New South Wales
Year Established: 1910
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Old Clare Hotel is a remarkable example of adaptive reuse in Sydney’s Chippendale area.
This establishment uniquely integrates elements of the two heritage-listed buildings it occupies the former Carlton & United Breweries administrative offices and the Clare Hotel pub.
It seamlessly blends the raw industrial aesthetics of its brewery past with luxurious, modern design, making it a standout destination for travelers seeking a blend of history and contemporary comfort.
The hotel features 62 rooms, each uniquely styled to incorporate the original wood and exposed brick of its structure.
Did You Know?
The Old Clare Hotel has retained the original pub bar, which is now a central feature of the hotel lounge. This bar is not only a piece of the building’s history but also a focal point for community gatherings, symbolizing the blend of old and new.
The restoration of the hotel was a significant part of the broader redevelopment of the Kensington Street precinct, aiming to celebrate the area’s historical significance while introducing a vibrant new cultural and hospitality scene.
7. The Esplanade Hotel
City Location: Fremantle, Western Australia
Year Established: 1898
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
Known locally as “The Espy,” The Esplanade Hotel in Fremantle is a beacon of the city’s vibrant cultural and social life. This historic hotel has served as the backdrop for many of Fremantle’s significant events and has hosted countless celebrities and musicians over the decades.
Its architecture reflects the colonial grandeur of the late 19th century, with sweeping verandas and elegant ballrooms that speak to its rich past. Today, The Espy continues to be a center for community events and celebrations, maintaining its role as a social hub in Fremantle.
Did You Know?
In its early days, The Esplanade Hotel was a popular stopover for passengers of the steamship lines that connected Australia with the world. Its strategic location near the Fremantle Harbour made it a glamorous gateway for overseas travelers.
The hotel’s guest registry includes signatures from famous early 20th-century figures, including authors, actors, and politicians, who often remarked on its luxurious accommodations and exceptional service.
6. The Russell Hotel
City Location: Sydney, New South Wales
Year Established: 1887
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the historic Rocks district of Sydney, The Russell Hotel retains much of its original
19th-century architecture, offering guests a charming, boutique experience.
Originally serving as a hostel for sailors, this hotel transitioned into a lodging for various visitors, maintaining its quaint charm and hospitality through the centuries.
The hotel’s proximity to Sydney’s vibrant harbor and its preserved antique furnishings provide a unique window into the city’s maritime history.
Did You Know?
Beyond its historical significance, The Russell Hotel is reputed to have several friendly ghosts, with numerous guests reporting sightings over the years.
These spectral appearances are often linked to its rich past, particularly its time as a sailors’ hostel, where it was a last refuge for many before long and perilous voyages.
5. The Royal Exchange
City Location: Toowong, Queensland
Year Established: 1886
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Royal Exchange Hotel in Toowong has been a cornerstone of Brisbane’s social scene for over a century. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and historic charm, it serves as a meeting place for students, locals, and tourists alike.
The building’s architecture is a mix of Victorian and Queensland colonial styles, featuring wide verandas and high ceilings that keep it cool during the hot summer months. The hotel’s commitment to maintaining its historical integrity while adapting to modern needs has made it a beloved local landmark.
Did You Know?
The Royal Exchange was originally established as a stock exchange for the bustling trade of goods and livestock in Toowong. Over the years, it evolved into a hotel, but it retained its name as a nod to its commercial origins.
The hotel’s walls are lined with photographs and memorabilia that document its transformation from a commercial exchange to a social gathering spot, offering a visual history lesson to its visitors.
4. Hotel Windsor
City Location: Melbourne, Victoria
Year Established: 1883
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Hotel Windsor in Melbourne is an enduring symbol of Australia’s grand Victorian era. With its opulent rooms, the hotel has hosted a myriad of dignitaries, including members of the British royal family and various heads of state.
Its historic charm is complemented by an ongoing commitment to preserving the lavish, traditional decor for which it has been famous.
The Windsor’s afternoon tea, a tradition that has been observed since its opening, continues to be a sought-after experience, offering a taste of 19th-century luxury.
Did You Know?
The Hotel Windsor was slated for demolition in the 1970s to make way for a modern hotel complex. However, a vehement public campaign that highlighted the hotel’s architectural and historical significance led to its preservation.
This campaign was one of the early successes of the heritage movement in Australia, which gained momentum in subsequent years, influencing public policy and attitudes towards historic preservation.
3. The Ship Inn
City Location: Brisbane, Queensland
Year Established: 1864
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Ship Inn, a historic gem located in Brisbane’s bustling South Bank area, has a storied past that mirrors the development of Queensland’s capital.
Originally a rowdy, rough-and-tumble establishment frequented by sailors and stevedores, it has transformed over the years into a sophisticated venue that respects its rough beginnings while catering to a more refined clientele.
The hotel’s structure features many of the original elements, including timber from local Moreton Bay Fig trees, which adds to its rustic charm.
Did You Know?
The Ship Inn was once the site of a famous brawl involving the notorious Australian bushranger Ned Kelly. The fight, before Kelly’s infamous outlaw days, was said to have started over a disagreement during a card game. The story has become a part of local folklore, adding a touch of intrigue to the hotel’s already colorful history.
2. The Port Admiral Hotel
City Location: Port Adelaide, South Australia
Year Established: 1849
The Port Admiral Hotel, located in the heart of historic Port Adelaide, is one of the oldest colonial buildings in the area. After falling into disrepair, it was meticulously restored and reopened in 2017, reimagining its 19th-century heritage with a modern twist.
The hotel now features a craft brewery, a boutique hotel, and a restaurant emphasizing local produce and seafood. The restoration was a labor of love, involving local historians and artisans to preserve the hotel’s historic integrity while providing a contemporary hospitality experience.
Did You Know?
During its renovation, various historical artifacts, including old coins, newspapers, and personal items from the 19th century, were discovered within the hotel’s walls. These items were carefully preserved and are now displayed in the hotel, offering guests a tangible connection to the people who once frequented this iconic establishment.
This connection to the past is a key aspect of the hotel’s charm and draws in visitors who are eager to experience a piece of South Australian history.
1. The Henry Jones Art Hotel
City Location: Hobart, Tasmania
Year Established: 1804
Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Henry Jones Art Hotel stands on Hobart’s waterfront, a structure that has witnessed the area’s transformation from a gritty industrial zone to a trendy, artistic hub. Originally the site of an old jam factory, the hotel today is a fusion of history, art, and innovation.
Each guest room is uniquely designed, incorporating the building’s original features with contemporary art, much of which was created by Tasmanian artists. The hotel’s architecture features stunning exposed brick and original timber beams, making it a masterpiece of industrial chic.
Did You Know?
The hotel’s art integration goes beyond mere decoration; it is a living gallery with rotating exhibitions that celebrate Tasmanian artists. This commitment to local art has made The Henry Jones Art Hotel a cultural landmark in Hobart, contributing significantly to the local art scene’s vitality and providing guests with an immersive artistic experience.
This emphasis on Tasmanian heritage and culture is part of the hotel’s broader mission to serve as a bridge between Tasmania’s past and its contemporary cultural expression.
Conclusion
These historic hotels offer more than just accommodation; they are gateways to the past, each with its own unique story and charm. Visiting any of these establishments provides a deeper appreciation of Australia’s rich cultural tapestry and the preservation of its architectural heritage.
