As you approach stop number 3 on our tour, keep an eye out to your left. You can't miss it-it's the grand, six-storey, warm-toned building with a fascinating Art Deco flair. The Great Northern Hotel dominates the view with its symmetrical facade and rows of tall, narrow windows framed by brick arches.
Now, let's dive into some fun facts about this historic landmark!
The Great Northern Hotel is located at 89 Scott Street and is heritage-listed. It has seen quite a bit of history since it first opened its doors in 1938. Designed by the Sydney architects Rudder and Grout, this building has truly stood the test of time, although it is actually the third hotel to bear the Great Northern name at this site since 1863.
In its heyday, it was the epitome of Newcastle nightlife and hailed as "Newcastle's grandest and most luxurious hotel." Even actress Susie Porter once worked here as a barmaid during her university days!
Over the decades, the hotel faced its share of challenges, including damage from the 1989 Newcastle earthquake, maintenance struggles, and disputes over fire regulations. However, the building has valiantly bounced back with multiple refurbishments-almost like a cat with nine lives.
The hotel even experienced legal drama in the early 2000s when it became the focus of the first-ever criminal proceedings under the Heritage Act due to unauthorized alterations. Talk about making history in more ways than one!
After various owners, closures, and refurbishments-including a multimillion-dollar upgrade and plans for a cantilevered swimming pool over Scott Street-the Great Northern Hotel finally reopened in November 2018. So, stand back and take in this slice of Newcastle’s heritage, a testament to resilience and grandeur!
