The Old Clare, Sydney | Rooftop Pool & Heritage

75 photos

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels Sydney Exterior photo The rooftop pool at The Standard, Bangkok

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels Sydney Restaurant photo The photo shows the interior of a modern restaurant with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The space is long and narrow, with tables arranged along both sides. The walls are a mix of textures and colors, with vertical stripes in muted earth tones and a

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels Sydney Exterior photo The kitchen at the restaurant

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Key details

About the Hotel

1 Kensington Street, Chippendale, Sydney, Australia, 02008

Near the Powerhouse Museum

Great

8.4

8.8

/10

4.4

4.1

Loved by The Old Clare By Ode Hotels guests

Attentive staff
Spacious rooms
Comfortable beds
Delicious breakfast
Heated pool

"The room was enormous and the bed was one of the most comfortable we have ever had."

Frizzante from United Kingdom

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"The rooftop swimming pool was lovely."

Sarah from United Kingdom

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"Gorgeous property with an exceptional roof top pool and bar as well."

Justin

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4-Star Urban Heritage Hotel in Sydney

Amenities

The Old Clare Hotel offers a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views of the city skyline. It includes a fully equipped fitness center and a wellness studio. Guests can also enjoy the distinctive bar experience at the Clare Bar.

Rooms

The hotel features 62 spacious rooms blending historic charm with contemporary comfort. Each room includes a custom-designed bed and a unique layout inspired by the former brewery on site. Select rooms offer views of the Sydney skyline and plush amenities.

Location

Located in Chippendale, The Old Clare Hotel is just a short walk from Central Station and the bustling entertainment precinct of Haymarket. It is situated within close proximity to galleries, boutiques, and dining experiences. The iconic Sydney Opera House is also easily accessible from the hotel.

Dining

Dining options include the acclaimed Automata restaurant, which offers a seasonal menu focused on local produce. Guests can enjoy a casual meal or drinks at the hotel's other dining spaces, including the rooftop bar. The hotel aims to provide a variety of culinary experiences throughout the stay.

Business Facilities

The Old Clare Hotel offers versatile meeting and event spaces, accommodating both intimate and larger gatherings. High-quality audio-visual equipment is available for business functions. Guests benefit from a dedicated events team to assist with planning.

Highlights

Location: Close to Central Station and Sydney Opera House

Dining: Acclaimed Automata restaurant with seasonal menu

Amenities: Rooftop swimming pool with city views

Business: Versatile meeting and event spaces

Must-do experiences

Stroll through the historic streets of The Rocks and enjoy local markets.
Savor the delicious beef and reef at Sydney's iconic Doyle's on the Beach.
Visit the breathtaking Royal Botanic Garden for stunning views and serenity.
Explore the bustling Paddy's Markets for unique souvenirs and fresh produce.
Catch a performance at the Sydney Opera House for a cultural highlight.

Location: Perfect

9.1/10Review score

See hotel location on map

Guest Emotional Experience

Shine on SocialsUnique and Charming

“Its industrial stylings mixed with modern charm make it a unique place to stay.”

Craig from New Zealand

Explorers, Not TouristsExplore the city

“This hotel is centrally located with walking distance to everything.”

Brian from United States

Strange & UniqueGroovy Experience

“We loved the fact there was a record player and vintage LPs.”

Frizzante from United Kingdom

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Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.

Suite Showroom

2 persons

575 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

King Room Connell

2 persons

305 sq. feet

2 Double beds

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Suite Mary O

2 persons

650 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

King Room Abercrombie

2 persons

400 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

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Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

Facilities: Great

8.5/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Car park
Handicap parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
Security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Lift
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Cycling

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Poolside snack bar
Snack bar
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Rooftop pool
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Full body massage

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries
Sink

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At The Old Clare by Ode Hotels, dining options encapsulate a modern take on Australian flavors in an inviting setting. Guests can indulge in thoughtfully prepared meals that cater to various dietary preferences, all while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere both indoors and on the rooftop.

Clare Bar

Modern Australian

Ambiance

A chic rooftop bar that allows guests to bask in the sunshine or enjoy a cozy indoor lounge, creating a pleasant balance between relaxation and socialization.

Key Offerings

Signature dishes include avocado smash with smoked cream cheese, a gourmet egg and bacon roll with jack cheese and BBQ onion jam, and enticing cinnamon waffles. The bar serves craft cocktails year-round, inviting guests to unwind while overlooking the pool.

Reservation

Recommended.

Open for lunch and dinner.

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels Location

1 Kensington Street, Chippendale, Sydney, Australia, 02008

Map view

1 Kensington Street, Chippendale, Sydney, Australia, 02008

City landmarks

Opera House

Sydney Opera House

2.1 mi

Aquarium

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

1.3 mi

Park

Royal Botanic Gardens

1.7 mi

Garden

Chinese Garden of Friendship

4400 ft

Museum

Powerhouse Museum

3000 ft

Landmark

Darling Harbour dining

4500 ft

Gallery

Art Gallery of New South Wales

1.4 mi

Landmark

Darling Harbour

1.2 mi

Museum

Australian National Maritime Museum

1.4 mi

Park

Hyde Park

1.2 mi

Mall

Queen Victoria Building

1.1 mi

Church

St Mary's Cathedral

1.3 mi

Public Building

Sydney Town Hall

4500 ft

Landmark

The Goods Line

2400 ft

Landmark

Carriageworks Farmers Market

1.0 mi

Zoo

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

1.4 mi

Event hall

International Convention Centre Sydney

1.1 mi

Museum

Anzac Memorial

5200 ft

Museum

Hyde Park Barracks Museum

1.4 mi

Museum

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia

1.8 mi

Public Building

Victoria Barracks

1.2 mi

Park

Tumbalong Park

4400 ft

Landmark

Crown Street

5100 ft

Landmark

Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck

1.3 mi

Park

Belmore Park

3100 ft

Harbour

Cockle Bay Wharf

1.2 mi

Museum

Madame Tussauds Sydney

1.4 mi

University

University of Sydney

1.2 mi

Nearby

Shopping Area

Central Park

700 ft

Gallery

White Rabbit Gallery

1400 ft

Restaurants

Koi Dessert Bar

200 ft

46 Kensington St

Mekong

100 ft

14 Kensington Street Chippendale

Andiamo

100 ft

9 Kensington St

Holy Duck

200 ft

The Old Rum Store

Concrete Jungle Cafe

200 ft

15 Kensington Street

Barzaari Chippendale

200 ft

3 Kensington St Chippendale

A1 Canteen

200 ft

2-10 Kensington St Ground Floor

Tomodachi

300 ft

Level Two

Explore Sydney

Explore Chippendale

Powerhouse Museum

11 minutes' walk

A leader in science and design, the museum offers interactive exhibits and stunning architecture, making it great for families.

Chinese Garden of Friendship

17 minutes' walk

Tranquil gardens featuring elegant landscapes and traditional Chinese architecture, perfect for relaxation and cultural experience.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

25 minutes' walk

Home to over 13,000 marine animals, this aquarium provides a fascinating glimpse of underwater life, suitable for all ages.

Darling Harbour

25 minutes' walk

A vibrant waterfront area packed with shops, attractions, and events, perfect for leisurely strolls and family fun.

Biking at Central Park

3 minutes' walk

Bike rentals available nearby provide a fun way to explore the beautiful park and its surrounding areas.

Yoga at The Goods Line

9 minutes' walk

Relaxing outdoor yoga classes available in this green space, making the most of Sydney's climate and park scenery.

Visit White Rabbit Gallery

5 minutes' walk

Contemporary Chinese art exhibitions in a vibrant setting; ideal for art enthusiasts and culture seekers.

Thrilling watersports at Bondi Beach

25 minutes' drive

Choice of surfing lessons, jet skiing, or paddleboarding; perfect for adventure and water activities lovers.

Mekong

1 minute' walk

Authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere; don't miss the pho and fresh spring rolls.

Holy Duck

1 minute' walk

A modern eatery focusing on crispy duck dishes; popular for its laid-back vibe and delicious flavors.

Andiamo

1 minute' walk

Charming Italian dining offering fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas in a cozy setting; great for romantic dinners.

Darling Harbour dining

17 minutes' walk

Diverse dining options along the waterfront; ideal for family meals or romantic evenings with spectacular views.

The Factory Theatre

15 minutes' walk

Eclectic mix of live performances ranging from music to comedy in a casual atmosphere, perfect for a fun night out.

Sydney Town Hall

17 minutes' walk

Historic venue offering concerts and events; family-friendly programs make it a great place for all ages.

Palace Cinemas

25 minutes' walk

Independent films and blockbuster releases; offers cozy seating and a selection of gourmet snacks.

Live music in Darling Harbour

25 minutes' walk

Regular live music events with a vibrant atmosphere; a hub for nightlife and cultural experiences.

Getting around

City Centre

Sydney18 min · 5000 ft

Airports

Kingsford Smith (SYD)12 min · 4.7 mi

Wollongong (WOL)147 min · 60.7 mi

Train

Central Station Sydney8 min · 2000 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible at a location nearby at AUD 55 per day.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of AUD 35 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

English, German, Spanish, Bahasa Indonesian

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Former name

the old clare hotel, independent collection by evt

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Old Clare, a beautifully renovated boutique hotel in the heart of Sydney, is appreciated for its spacious rooms with high ceilings and comfortable beds. Its location is considered superb, being very close to Central Station and offering easy access to the city and Spice Alley's diverse food options. Many guests enjoy the rooftop pool area, and some have noted that the housekeeping could be more consistent. Overall, guests find it a charming base for exploring Sydney.

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Review score

Based on 665 verified reviews

8.1/10

Great

80%

Recommend

Location

9.1/10

Comfort

8.9/10

Free Wi-Fi

7.8/10

Value for money

8.0/10

Pros

Good location

Quirky history

Amazing bathrobes

Cons

Soft beds

Alan from United Kingdom

Business traveller

king room abercrombie

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 02, 2026

6/10

good locationroom dustpoor cleaning

the location was good, near spice alley.

i had issues. the room wasn't clean, and i found hairs on the floor and in the bed. also, the room was really dusty.

0 Helpful

Kerry from Ireland

Single

King Room Abercrombie

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 27, 2025

9/10

Lovely heritage stay

retro furniturefriendly staffgreat location

The building has beautiful retro furniture. I found the staff friendly. Breakfast was wonderful. I was very happy about the location and surrounding amenities.

The room overlooked an alleyway full of restaurants so it was noisy until the early morning hours.

Location

9/10

This hotel is very central to everything. I found buses and trams nearby. They would take you everywhere. There is also a very good hawker center close by, perfect for food.

0 Helpful

Paul from Germany

King Room Connell

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 26, 2025

6/10

an okay experience overall

rooftop poolpool areaconvenient locationfantastic roomlackcleaningused cupmissing toilet paper

the hotel is close to transport and the city. i liked that the rooftop and pool area was mostly empty when i visited. it meant i could chill and swim easily. the rooms had everything i needed. the location is close to many facilities.

there was a lack of cleaning . towels were replaced but nothing else received attention. i had to request used cups to be taken away and replaced. i also had to ask for toilet paper, and the bed was made only one day out of four.

0 Helpful

Dick from United Kingdom

Single

King Room Connell

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 21, 2025

8/10

large roomcomfortable bedfriendly staff

the room was large and comfortable. the bed was very comfortable also. friendly staff were present and a nice cafe was downstairs for breakfast.

0 Helpful

Arthur from United Kingdom

Business traveller

King Room Abercrombie

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 18, 2025

7/10

a decent stay overall

helpful staffrooftop barpaper cupsreluctant service

The king room abercrombie was a good size. i appreciated the bathroom. It was clean and spacious. the rooftop bar is a nice spot for an evening drink. the front desk staff were helpful.

the hotel was average at best. i felt customer service was reluctant. all coffees and teas, including in-room dining, came in paper cups with plastic lids. the glass around the toilet as walls is revolting.

0 Helpful