The Old Clare Hotel – Chippendale
Today, The Old Clare is a boutique hotel in Sydney’s Chippendale district. In the distant past, the area was known for crime and alcohol before becoming an industrial centre in the early 19th century. Prior to being converted to a hotel in 1939, The Old Clare was the administrative HQ for a brewer.
The Old Clare has an eclectic style reflecting its heritage. In the rooms and suites, you might find neutral colours and art deco lines paired with wooden floors and exposed brick. Also respecting the hotel’s heritage are the many pub posters that remain on the walls.
In a 1930s warehouse, The Automata restaurant offers three, five or even seven course meals for dinner Wednesday to Saturday and for Sunday lunch. The Clare Bar recalls the location’s beer heritage with panels coloured like beer bottles and offers a range of craft beers. There’s also a rooftop bar and pool.
If you prefer to eat out, then there’s countless restaurants, especially as you head north to the harbour (the famous Opera House is a 15 minute drive). If you want to do some shopping, the Central Park Mall is just across the road. The Powerhouse Museum dedicated to ecology, futurology and transport is also nearby.