The Old Clare Sydney · Rooftop Pool & Art ║ from $267

75 photos

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels Sydney Exterior photo The rooftop pool at The Standard, Bangkok

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels Sydney Restaurant photo The photo shows the interior of a modern restaurant with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The space is long and narrow, with tables arranged along both sides. The walls are a mix of textures and colors, with vertical stripes in muted earth tones and a

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels Sydney Exterior photo The kitchen at the restaurant

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Key details

About the Hotel

1 Kensington Street, Chippendale, Sydney, Australia, 02008

Close to Central Park

Great

8.4

8.8

/10

4.4

4.1

Loved by The Old Clare By Ode Hotels guests

Accommodating staff
Spacious rooms
Comfortable beds
Modern bathrooms
Excellent housekeeping
Perfect location

"The room was enormous and the bed was one of the most comfortable we have ever had."

Frizzante from United Kingdom

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"The Old Clare is a marvelous example of combining old and new, industrial chic, a bit boheme, casual yet classy."

Frank from Germany

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"It was a lovely hotel - modern comfort and luxury in a deconstructed artchitecture that reveals the historical significance of the building and area."

Nick

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Rooms: Design and Features

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels has 62 rooms featuring custom-made lamps by The Rag and Bone Man, bespoke pendant lighting, and VW Beetle headlights illuminating the lift recess. The eclectic selection of restored mid-century armchairs are from Unlisted Collection founder Loh Lik Peng's personal collection. Each Connell room has a ceiling of at least 3 meters high. They feature vintage designer furniture and lamps, and modern bathrooms with dual vanities. Available room types include double rooms and suites. Select rooms offer private bathrooms with walk-in showers, bathrobes, and free toiletries. Some rooms have soundproof walls, minibars, tea and coffee makers, and quiet street views. The hotel also offers one-bedroom apartments designed for entertaining, and a suite in the former Carlton & United Breweries' boardroom featuring original timber paneling, parquetry floors, and an eight-seater table.

Onsite Dining

Breakfast is next door at A1. The Clare bar embraces the same ethos that made its prior incarnation so beloved. The rooftop bar offers cocktails all year round. Avo smash with smoked cream cheese, a classic egg & bacon roll jazzed with jack cheese and BBQ onion jam to melt in your mouth cinnamon waffles.

Leisure and Recreation

The rooftop has a heated pool with city views. The BS gallery offers creatives an opportunity to show their work to locals and travellers, hotel guests and passer-bys alike. Other design features include 62 custom-made lamps by The Rag and Bone Man, bespoke pendant lighting, VW Beetle headlights illuminating the lift recess, and the eclectic selection of restored mid-century armchairs dotted around the property are from Unlisted Collection founder Loh Lik Peng's personal collection.

Location and Transport

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels is just 1 km from Sydney Redfern and a 10-minute stroll from Haymarket. Chippendale is a 5-minute walk to Central Station and Railway Square, with connections to the Airport Link. Central Station provides buses and trains to local and regional NSW. Circular Quay is accessible via a train from Central Station. Landmarks nearby include Hyde Park (2 km), Queen Victoria Building (1.5 km), White Rabbit Gallery (0.5 km), Darling Harbour (2 km), Sydney Town Hall (1.5 km), and the Chinese Garden of Friendship (1.5 km).

Hotel Services

The Old Clare Hotel provides a 'superconcierge' service for restaurant bookings, forgotten items, and local recommendations. The lounge area downstairs offers space to host drinks or interviews.

“In my view, this hotel occupies a fascinating space, blending the gritty appeal of Chippendale with curated design elements. Its dedication to local art and historical integration creates a palpable sense of place, further enhanced by a rooftop bar with city views. I think it strikes a balance between boutique charm and urban convenience.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Airporthotel

Location: Perfect

9.1/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningSpice Alley Gem

Right next door, Spice Alley is amazing. The finer dining options at your doorstep are top-tier and delicious.

Isabelle from France

Review on

Room FeaturesRetro Comfort

Rooms feature retro style, comfortable beds, and high ceilings. Some even include record players with vintage LPs.

Robert from Canada

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Sports & FitnessRooftop Refresh

The rooftop pool, though small, offers great views and a refreshing dip. The pool is heated.

Kenji from Japan

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Guest ParkingEasy Access

There is a tiny alley for 15-minute parking. After check-in, you get a tag for offsite parking access.

Priya from India

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Select your room type

The hotel offers rooms of different types and facilities suitable for every traveler

Suite Showroom

2 persons

53 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

King Room Connell

2 persons

28 m²

2 Double beds

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Suite Mary O

2 persons

60 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

King Room Abercrombie

2 persons

37 m²

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Click button to see more rooms

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Airport hotels designed with facilities that ensure convenience and comfort

Facilities: Great

8.5/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
Security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Lift
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Cycling

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Poolside snack bar
Snack bar
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Rooftop pool
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Full body massage

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries
Sink

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels presents a delightful dining option for every palate at Clare Bar. This vibrant venue invites guests to savor modern Australian cuisine, featuring inclusive meal choices that cater to various dietary preferences. With its rooftop setting, the bar provides a refreshing escape for cocktail enthusiasts and sun seekers alike.

Clare Bar

Modern Australian, Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free

Ambiance

Contemporary rooftop setting with poolside seating under the sun

Key Offerings

Enjoy a range of dishes including tempting avocado smash with smoked cream cheese, or indulge in a classic egg and bacon roll with jack cheese and BBQ onion jam. Delight in cinnamon waffles for brunch, or sip on crafted cocktails while taking in a stunning view.

Reservation

Not needed

Lunch and Dinner; hours may vary

The Old Clare By Ode Hotels Location

1 Kensington Street, Chippendale, Sydney, Australia, 02008

Map view

1 Kensington Street, Chippendale, Sydney, Australia, 02008

City landmarks

Opera House

Sydney Opera House

3.3 km

Aquarium

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

2.2 km

Park

Royal Botanic Gardens

2.7 km

Garden

Chinese Garden of Friendship

1.3 km

Museum

Powerhouse Museum

900 m

Landmark

Darling Harbour dining

1.4 km

Gallery

Art Gallery of New South Wales

2.3 km

Landmark

Darling Harbour

1.9 km

Museum

Australian National Maritime Museum

2.3 km

Park

Hyde Park

2.0 km

Mall

Queen Victoria Building

1.7 km

Church

St Mary's Cathedral

2.2 km

Public Building

Sydney Town Hall

1.4 km

Landmark

The Goods Line

710 m

Landmark

Carriageworks Farmers Market

1.6 km

Zoo

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

2.2 km

Event hall

International Convention Centre Sydney

1.8 km

Museum

Anzac Memorial

1.6 km

Museum

Hyde Park Barracks Museum

2.2 km

Museum

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia

2.9 km

Public Building

Victoria Barracks

2.0 km

Park

Tumbalong Park

1.3 km

Landmark

Crown Street

1.5 km

Landmark

Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck

2.0 km

Park

Belmore Park

930 m

Harbour

Cockle Bay Wharf

1.9 km

Museum

Madame Tussauds Sydney

2.2 km

University

University of Sydney

2.0 km

Nearby

Shopping Area

Central Park

190 m

Gallery

White Rabbit Gallery

400 m

Restaurants

Koi Dessert Bar

50 m

46 Kensington St

Mekong

30 m

14 Kensington Street Chippendale

Andiamo

10 m

9 Kensington St

Holy Duck

40 m

The Old Rum Store

Concrete Jungle Cafe

60 m

15 Kensington Street

Barzaari Chippendale

50 m

3 Kensington St Chippendale

A1 Canteen

60 m

2-10 Kensington St Ground Floor

Tomodachi

70 m

Level Two

Explore Sydney

Local Highlights

Powerhouse Museum

11 minutes' walk

Museum focusing on science and design, featuring interactive exhibits. Popular for its diverse collection and educational programs.

Chinese Garden of Friendship

17 minutes' walk

Beautiful garden designed in the traditional Chinese style, perfect for relaxation. Features tranquil ponds and lush landscapes.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

25 minutes' walk

Aquarium showcasing marine life from Australian waters. Family-friendly with unique experiences like shark walks and feeding sessions.

Cycling at Central Park

3 minutes' walk

Cycling through Central Park with rental options nearby. Great for leisure rides or a quick workout amidst beautiful landscapes.

Yoga at Prince Alfred Park

8 minutes' walk

Outdoor yoga classes available at Prince Alfred Park. Ideal for relaxation with scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Mekong

1 minute' walk

Southeast Asian cuisine with vibrant flavors. Known for noodle dishes and a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Vegetarian options available.

Koi Dessert Bar

1 minute' walk

Dessert haven offering artistic sweet treats. Signature desserts include matcha and layered cakes; perfect for a sweet ending.

Darling Harbour

25 minutes' walk

Vibrant waterfront area with shops, bars, and family-friendly attractions. Hosts events, making it lively and entertaining year-round.

The Goods Line

9 minutes' walk

Unique urban park connecting key attractions with spaces for live performances. Great for casual strolls and family activities.

Getting around

City Centre

Sydney18 min · 1.5 km

Airports

Kingsford Smith (SYD)12 min · 7.5 km

Wollongong (WOL)147 min · 97.7 km

Train

Central Station Sydney8 min · 600 m

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible at a location nearby at AUD 55 per day.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of AUD 35 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

English, German, Spanish, Bahasa Indonesian

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Former name

the old clare hotel, independent collection by evt

Property is also known as

the old claire hotel

old clare hotel

the old claire

old clare hotel chippendale sydney

old claire hotel

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Old Clare By Ode Hotels from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Old Clare provides guests with spacious and beautifully decorated rooms, often described as quiet and equipped with everything you could need. Its convenient location is a plus, offering easy access to Central Railway Station and placing you close to the city, nearby Spice Alley's Asian cuisine, and a variety of restaurants. While some guests have occasionally noted issues such as the rooftop pool being more for show, many appreciate the hotel's proximity to transport for exploring the surrounding areas and reaching the airport.

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Review score

Based on 665 verified reviews

8.1/10

Great

80%

Recommend

Location

9.1/10

Comfort

8.9/10

Free Wi-Fi

7.8/10

Value for money

8.0/10

Pros

Industrial design

Excellent staff

Good location

Cons

Loud noise

Little privacy

Worn pool area

Wade from United States

Single

King Room Abercrombie

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 17, 2026

8.5/10

Reflective stay

comfy bedgreat decorfood optionsrooftop bar

The room had a super comfy bed! it featured great decor. Location near spice alley offered loads of food options. The rooftop pool was very clean. I found the rooftop bar well-stocked.

The check-in process was sterile. the staff member exchanged very few words. there was no explanation of hotel amenities.

Service

9/10

The reception staff was lovely and very helpful people. The bar had a fantastic ambience. It felt very cute. I received prompt assistance with all requests. The hotel staff seemed to care.

Dining

8/10

The breakfast offered a good culinary experience, it was tastefully presented. The food options were diverse and of great quality. The restaurant staff were efficient and very attentive to customer needs.

0 Helpful

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Andrew from Australia

Couple

King Room Connell

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 30, 2025

8.5/10

Stylish stay

great locationdistinct charactersecure luggageparking hassle

I found the location to be great, close to many restaurants near the station and city center. The building presented distinct character, especially the front bar. I appreciated the Nespresso pods that were replenished each morning. The staff securely stored my luggage. It was very accessible for early arrivals and later flights. Taxis were readily available.

I found the hotel parking a hassle. It cost an additional fee of $55. It also seemed like a maze. I had to double park on a main road to collect a fob from reception prior to locating the Carpark. Trekking back with all the luggage was inconvenient.

Rooms

9/10

My room featured a clear shower. It visually expanded the space and felt quite modern. Amenities were well-stocked. The bed was comfortable.

Dining

8/10

Breakfast included various options that were aesthetically pleasing and delicious. I thought the food options available just outside the hotel were excellent. I enjoyed having great culinary choices right on the doorstep.

0 Helpful

John from Australia

Single

King Room Connell

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 26, 2025

7/10

Acceptable stay

convenient locationcomfortable bednice vibeslow stafffrustrating checkoutdouble charge

The location is convenient. It is near central station. The bed was comfortable. I also liked the bar downstairs it had a nice vibe.

The staff seemed slow. My checkout was frustrating. I realized they charged my card twice for the stay. I called to complain, but they denied it.

0 Helpful

Trent from Australia

Couple

King Room Abercrombie

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 20, 2025

7/10

secure luggageeasy accessslow serviceincompetent staff

The building is full of character. I was able to store luggage securely onsite for a late flight. Taxis and Ubers accessed the hotel easily.

I noticed slow service. I found the staff not very competent.

0 Helpful

Dane from Denmark

Single

King Room Connell

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 07, 2025

6/10

good locationslow servicesame staff

the location was good, i guess it was close to restaurants.

The service was slow at the restaurant, i waited for breakfast every day. the same staff asked for my room number daily. I thought that was a bit much.

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John from United States

Couple

King Room Abercrombie

3 nights in June 2025

Reviewed: July 17, 2025

7/10

convenient locationhigh ceilingsimpersonal check-inpoor quality

I found the location very convenient. The room was spacious and quiet! I really liked the decor and the high ceilings.

The check in process felt impersonal. The staff member didn't provide much information! I wasn't told about available amenities. The TV was also very poor quality and difficult to use.

0 Helpful