The iconic Lion of Waterloo Hotel in Wellington[i], believed to be the oldest licensed hotel west of the Blue Mountains, is set to go to auction with a price guide of $730,000 to $800,000, according to listing agent Mr Gary Francis, Sales Manager at Raine & Horne Wellington.

The heritage-listed freehold hotel, built by renowned local pastoralist, innkeeper, and former Member for Wellington in the NSW Legislative Assembly Nicholas Hyeronimus[ii], has been licensed since 19 April 1842. It has already attracted interest from local hospitality interests and history enthusiasts captivated by the 180+-year-old hotel’s rich heritage.

“Located at 93 Montefiores Street, Wellington, the Lion of Waterloo Hotel offers more than just a prime piece of real estate and a popular local watering hole – it also serves as a gateway to a storied past,” said Mr Francis.

“Given the historical significance of this hotel to Wellington and the surrounding region, it’s truly humbling that the owners have entrusted me with the responsibility of selling it.”

A rich legacy as a Cobb & Co Stop and the site of one of Australia’s last pistol duels

Situated near Teamster Park, which celebrates the role of teamsters (drivers of horse-drawn carriages) in Australia’s transport history, the Lion of Waterloo was a critical stop for the pioneering Cobb & Co coaches. “The hotel provided a place for weary travellers, including station hands, settlers, and miners, to rest during their journeys,” Mr Francis explained.

Today, the popular Lion of Waterloo attracts locals and visitors as a charming tavern and restaurant. Adding to its historical significance, the hotel is located near the site of one of the last recorded pistol duels on Australian soil, fought in 1854 between Dr Samuel Curtis and Mr B. Sheridan[iii].

The Wellington area has recently seen a surge in economic activity, thanks to completed and proposed renewable energy projects, as well as prospective gold mining in Bondangora, just 16 kilometres from Wellington, Mr Francis noted.

The property itself is 1,145 square metres and features a 371 square metre tavern building area (excluding the breezeway).

“The Lion of Waterloo has been held by the current family since 2003, and now offers its next owner the chance to continue its legacy,” said Mr Francis.

The current leaseholder has expressed a willingness to continue with their option to renew for another two years, beginning in 2025.

Inspections of this iconic property are available by appointment, and lease details are available on a T.A.P basis or by calling Raine & Horne Wellington on 02 6845 1222.

If the property has not been sold before, interested buyers can register for the online auction scheduled for 31 October 20024 through www.soldonline.com.au.

[i] https://www.raineandhorne.com.au/wellington/properties/93-montefiores-street-wellington-2820-new-south-wales

[ii] https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/members/Pages/member-details.aspx?pk=330

[iii] https://downloads.newcastle.edu.au/library/cultural%20collections/the-wellington-valley-project/wellpro/c/curtis.html