History & Scandals – Hadley’s Orient Hotel, Hobart

Hadley’s Orient Hotel in central Hobart is a heritage-listed hotel boasting nearly two centuries of Tasmanian history. From famous stories and little-known secrets to splendid soirées and more than a few scandals, Hadley’s has a rich and at times colourful past. Each room and space boasts a tale or two that adds to the experience. 

For holidaymakers looking for accommodation in Hobart that offers a unique guest experience, Hadley’s Orient Hotel is certain to tick all your boxes. A National Trust-listed property authentically restored to reflect the Victorian era’s decadence and grandeur, you’re sure to find our iconic 4.5 Star Hobart hotel to be so much more than just a place to stay. 

A Rich and Colourful Past 

Originally founded and operated as Webb’s Family Hotel in 1862, 20 years before the launch of the Hobart Stock Exchange, Hadley’s Orient Hotel has seen more than a few changes — and more than a few owners — in its time. The Hadley family purchased the property in 1890 and in 1935 it was purchased by a business consortium while retaining the Hadley name. 

Hobart was a very different place in those days, an epicentre of commerce and culture in Australia’s most far-flung territory. Significantly smaller than today, Hobart has an intriguing history and Hadley’s Orient Hotel played host to many of the city's most famous — and infamous — visitors and events. 

From royal guests and politicians to famous explorers and celebrities — and more than a few convicts and ne'er-do-wells — the scenes which have played out at Hadley’s are among the city’s most celebrated. 

Restored and Relaunched 

A stay in one of Hobart’s most historical hotels enables visitors to immerse themselves in Hadley’s rich and colourful past while enjoying luxury accommodation in the heart of the Hobart CBD. 

Authentically restored and relaunched in 2014, guests could find themselves staying in the very same rooms as some of the city’s famous visitors. These include Antarctic explorers Douglas Mawson and Roald Amundsen, and the Duke of Penrieve (France), Tasmania’s first royal visitor who stayed at Hadley’s in 1866. 

A short stroll from the city’s most popular sights and delights, Hadley’s Orient Hotel is Hobart accommodation at its most intriguing, historical and luxurious. Learn more about the accommodation and wining and dining experiences at Hadley’s Orient Hotel here.