NSW Masonic Club & Castlereagh Boutique Hotel
This Art Deco building was once the tallest high-rise in Sydney and hailed as the finest Masonic Club in the world
10am–4pm
About the building
The NSW Masonic Club was established in 1893, and in 1927 it officially opened the NSW Masonic Club building at 169 Castlereagh Street. The Art Deco building was designed by Claude William Chambers, a founding member of the Queensland Institute of Architects.
The 12-storey building was a remarkable feat of engineering at the time, being Sydney’s first high-rise constructed from reinforced concrete and the tallest building in the city, offering uninterrupted views to the Heads from its uppermost floors and rooftop garden. The original building featured a grand dining room, private dining spaces, a ballroom, billiard room, library, reading and games rooms, a large bar and accommodation for 60 members. By 1938, it was hailed as the largest and finest Masonic Club in the world.
Heritage-listed in 1980, it now houses the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel, which has 83 guest rooms. Dining, function and meeting rooms, including the Cellos Grand Dining Room, Adam Room and the Boardroom, have been meticulously restored to their original 1927 decor.
Sydney Open visitors will be able to view many of the historical rooms, and club directors and staff positioned on the various levels will tell interesting stories about the building and the use of space.
Visitors may need to sign in on entry as it is a registered club.
Built
1927
Architect
Claude William Chambers
Alterations
John Moorcroft
Acknowledgements
NSW Masons
Find out more about this building here
NSW Masonic Club & Castlereagh Boutique Hotel
169 Castlereagh Street, Sydney
Entry details
Cellos Grand Dining Room, Adam Room, King George Room, Reagh Bar, The Alcoves, Boardroom and Bowring rooms
10am–4pm
3.30pm
Need to know
Accessible featuresThere is lift access to all floors. A ramp will be provided at the main street entrance and at the King George Room. Accessible toilets are available
Toilets availablePhotography allowedFood and drink availableRestaurant and lounge: The Alcoves. Coffee cart
