If you like getting spooked but the creature comforts of a hotel are more appealing than walking through cemeteries and gaols, we’ve got a place just for you. Nestled in Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood is an unassuming hotel that fits in seamlessly with the heritage architecture in the vicinity. But beneath its toned facade lies a dark history that has given it the reputation of being Sydney’s most haunted hotel. The Russell Hotel was built in 1887 and operated as the Port Jackson Hotel until 1923. The hotel was built on the site of a former convict hospital which saw an equal amount of recovery and death in its time so the seemingly quaint spot has some unsettling stories to tell. It’s also rumoured to have been a brothel at one point. Visit it and stay the night, if you’re feeling brave.
Sydney’s most haunted hotel
Tantalising ghostbusters with all the horror cliches, staff and guests who have stayed overnight at this spooky spot have reported creaking doors, unexplained eerieness, lingering spirits and spine-tingling feelings.
Room 8 at the hotel is the most infamous haunted room at the hotel. The spirit of a sailor who was murdered by a prostitute is said to linger in the room with many reporting a figure in the room, usually seen crouching at the foot of the bed. It only ever appears to women sleeping alone in the room though, go figure. While Room 8 is the one to commonly have strange occurrences, guests in other rooms around the hotel have experienced paranormal activity too including seeing a ghostly woman in vintage clothing strolling downstairs in the hotel and then disappearing. Sudden drops in temperature, feelings of being watched and eerie sounds are part of the experience too.
The Russell Hotel is a lovely spot in the heart of Sydney and perfect for a staycation if you’re looking to explore the city and all of its icons in the vicinity so take these stories with a pinch of salt!
Please note: The Russell Hotel is currently closed for renovations, head here to stay updated about its opening date.