The Hobart Town Hotel isn’t just a pub - it’s been part of Hobart’s DNA since 1814, pouring drinks and swapping stories for over 150 years.
The building stands as one of the city's most enduring landmarks, where history meets hospitality. Established in 1814, its walls have witnessed the evolution of Hobart—from a colonial outpost to the vibrant city it is today.
Originally Hobart’s first post office, in 1815 the first letter officially sent from Van Diemen’s Land embarked on an arduous 225-day journey to London, marking the beginning of a more direct mail route.
By 1851, the building had transitioned into a thriving pub, licensed by William Montgomery and bearing the name Hobart Town Hotel, in tribute to Lord Hobart, a key figure in the region’s settlement. Over the decades, the hotel adapted -undergoing a significant transformation in 1924 to become the architectural landmark seen today.
The venue has been shaped by its publicans, each leaving their mark. Nelson Kemp was the first to emboss his name above the entrance, while in 1934, Tom McHugo modernised the space with an American-style cocktail bar. By the 1950s, under Maloney’s ownership, the hotel became a hub for sports lovers, celebrated for its accommodation and renowned hospitality.
Today, the Hobart Town Hotel continues its legacy as a beloved institution, offering top-quality food and drink while maintaining its deep connection to the city's past.
From post office to pub, it remains a cornerstone of Hobart’s social scene, bringing people together for great drinks, hearty meals, and good conversation- just as it has for over 150 years.
