Craig's Royal Hotel - Ballarat East, Victoria

Reg R.

The period decore, high ceilings, old style lift, beautiful staircase, parquetry tiled flooring leading to staircase and highest quality of refurbished rooms in early period style took one back to the early 19century high class Hotel and accommodation. |The central location was especially great as it was opposite Ballarat grand old theatre which has also been reinvigorated. |Reception was very friendly and welcoming. Room service staff were also friendly and obliging.

Kieran J.

I stayed at this hotel for one night, and unfortunately, my experience was far from satisfactory.

From the moment I entered the room, I was met with a strong, unpleasant odor that made the space feel unclean and unwelcoming. It was immediately clear that the room had not been properly maintained. The carpets appeared dirty, and there was visible dust on various surfaces, including appliances. The overall condition of the room suggested a serious lack of upkeep, making it feel neglected and far from comfortable.

The bathroom, while relatively clean, had a very inconvenient layout. There was no designated space to use a laptop or other personal items, and strangely, most of the electrical outlets were located inside the bathroom. This not only felt impractical but also posed a potential safety hazard.

Given the price I paid, I expected a much higher standard of cleanliness, maintenance, and overall comfort. Unfortunately, this hotel failed to meet even basic expectations, making it a disappointing stay. I would not recommend it to others looking for a clean and comfortable accommodation option.

Lynelle C.

Our Nellie Melba Suite was beautiful on the surface. Old world charm and reeking of famous guests. However, the curtains were dusty and the bed was smaller than expected. The pillows were flat , but the bed was soft. The bathroom was beautiful, but the hand towel holder fell off. It could have been an experience to remember, but we were disappointed. The hotel reeks of charm with elegant furnishings from yesteryear, but there was something lacking. Put a bit of love into it.

Simon D.

The Craig’s Royal Hotel is one of those few remaining classy hotels from a bygone era. The decor is adorned with art from the 19th century. The lift is one of those gate closing thing’ese. The rooms have tall ceilings and original furniture so don’t expect modern benches and the like you would find at a Mecure Chain hotel. Our room had a huge old fashioned cupboard/robe with the fridge and TV neatly tucked inside. Difficult to see the TV in the room, but hey not a biggie. The air conditioning is good. Service is very friendly, old world style. Be sure you specify secure parking on arrival, with only paid parking outside. Still, despite the era all the fittings were sparkling and well maintained. Thanks great place to stay, providing one appreciates old world charm.

Neil G.

It's a lovely old hotel with lots of lovely antiques and the resident ghosts can scare you out of your wits. The staff were pleasant and the bar service ok, but the food was lousy. Next time in Ballarat I will stay at a more reasonable motel that's not too expensive.

Kell T.

Was very disappointed with our room.
There was dust on everything.
The hot water did one shower then I had to call reception to let them know we had no hot water.
Was told to wait few minutes they would turn tap on down stairs to make water work.
Ordered breakfast delivered cold the best bit was the coffee.
The room was tended to while out bed made towels replaced but left the breakfast tray and dishes behind.
The $10 a day parking was good location excellent.
I feel they have spent alot of money on the public areas and have neglected the rooms.
We had a deluxe king room it was small and definitely not worth the $415 paid for 2 nights $20 of that parking.would of stayed elsewhere if I hadn't of paid up front.

Fran M.

What a gem! My husband and I have accommodation hopped our way from WA, staying in accommodation as we cross the country! This place is amazing!
Walked into yesteryear Ballarat furnishing & fittings to be greeted warmly by front of house.
Our room was immaculate, comfortable and a welcome relief after days on the road.
Down for dinner to be warmly greeted by the lovely Kym, who treated us to some Ballarat hospitality and our first good dinner in days!
Same at breakfast with the same friendly service and a breakfast of champions.
Can’t rate our experience high enough, we will be back!

David K.

This hotel is trading off it's former glory. The decor is tired and is starting to look bashed about. We stayed Mon and Tue. There are three bars, two pretty well laid and stocked, but they were both closed. The third bar was open. It is the smallest, poorly lit and right next to the approximately 20 pokies machines. Mid week, the hotel seems to cater to the pokies crowd. Sadly the dining room is right next to the pokies area, so you get to listen to them while eating dinner. The rooms we stayed in were adequate, but poorly furnished. No cleaning or room servicing provided on 2nd day. Room safes non functioning. It felt understaffed, with one or two people covering reception, bar etc.