Exterior, Entrance and Civic History

Location: Lydiard Street exterior, main foyer, and grand staircase.

Established in 1853 during the gold rush height, The George Hotel stands as the second licensed premises on the Ballarat goldfield under founding publicans George Howe and Francis Herring. Originally known as the George Inn, it became a civic hub where prominent regional groups were formed—including the Agricultural Society and the first Coursing Club in 1856. During the 1854 Eureka Stockade, it served as a key rendezvous point for civil and military authorities under hostess Eliza Hannah Forster. For many years, political aspirants addressed large crowds in the roadway directly from the hotel’s balcony. Rebuilt in 1902 by architects E & B Smith, the grand three-storey landmark features classical trim, a decorative parapet, and an arched carriageway for horse-drawn coaches. Despite surviving major 1980s fires, key original features—including the grand staircase—survived and were meticulously restored, preserving an icon officially listed on the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR H0113).

Next Stop: Head into the Heritage Bar Bistro or The Lane Cafe to scan QR Code 2!