Craig'S Royal Hotel, Ballarat
About the Hotel
Craig's Royal Hotel is a renowned heritage hotel located in the heart of Ballarat, Australia. The hotel, established during the Victorian period, has hosted notable figures such as poets and prime ministers throughout its 160-year history. After extensive restoration, it now offers luxurious accommodations and is recognized as one of regional Australia's prestigious venues for events and weddings. Its rich ambiance and historical significance contribute to its status as a true icon of the gold-rush era.
Location
Situated just 600 meters from the center of Ballarat, Craig's Royal Hotel offers convenient access to local attractions such as St Patrick's Cathedral and the Gold Museum. Public transportation options and secure off-street parking make it easily accessible for visitors. Furthermore, the hotel is approximately 100 km from Avalon Airport, enhancing its connectivity for travelers.
Rooms
Craig's Royal Hotel features 41 boutique rooms, each individually rebuilt to preserve elements of their rich history. Each room has distinct furnishings, with options ranging from Classic to Royal suites, ensuring no two rooms are identical. Stylish amenities in the rooms include personal safes, work desks, flat-screen TVs, and dual spa baths. Most suites also offer access to a shared balcony, enhancing guests' experience.
Eat & Drink
The Gallery Restaurant is the hotel's main dining facility, specializing in both local and international cuisine. Guests can enjoy refreshing drinks at one of the two bars or lounges within the hotel. The Grand Dining Room and The Bentley's are notable venues for dining and conferences, showcasing beautiful Victorian architecture and accommodating events for large groups. A flexible menu with meal options adds to the dining experience for guests.
Leisure & Business
Craig's Royal Hotel is equipped to host a variety of business gatherings, ranging from intimate meetings to presentations for 150 guests. Facilities include five banquet and conference rooms designed for elegance and function. Additionally, guests may enjoy leisure activities in historical settings, including the antique-filled Reading Room and a distinctive bluestone and timber cellar. Responsible gaming options are also provided for patron safety and engagement.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- 24-hour reception
- No pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Wheelchair access
- Security
- Luggage storage
- Lift
- ATM/Cash machine
- Smoke detectors
- Electric vehicle charging station
- Fire extinguishers
- Key card access
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Valet parking
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
- Cots
- Children's menu
Room features
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Dining table
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel has a cozy feel with a beautifully renovated bathroom and a charming front balcony. The coffee served is top-notch, and the cake is always fresh, creating a lovely ambiance. However, the morning chill can be a drawback, and sometimes you may need to turn off the heating.
My stay at the hotel was a delightful experience. The rooms were cute and spotless, and the dining room and bar were beautiful. However, there was a slight issue at check-in with a staff member seeming overwhelmed with their workload.
I had a fantastic High Tea experience and the staff showed exceptional care towards my autistic son. The room size was a bit small and boxy despite booking a superior room with a spa. The hotel had a neglected feel with mismatched decor and aged service trolleys.
The hotel offers tastefully furnished rooms that match the 'classic room' photos, but the elevator is old and creaky. The service was outstanding, from valet parking to restaurant staff, although Andrew's garlic obsession was noticeable. The location is a mix of nightmare and greatness, as it requires an extension cable but is conveniently close to shops, cinema, and historic buildings. The dining experience was high quality but not value for money in relation to room rates. Overall, a mixed bag of experiences with some notable highlights and quirks.