Our Venue 

Located opposite Newtown Station, Bank Hotel is a much-loved Newtown institution and a central part of Sydney’s Inner West. 

Known for its leafy beer gardens, welcoming atmosphere, late-night trading and live music, Bank Hotel brings together great food, drinks, entertainment and community under one roof. 

Whether you’re stopping by for a casual meal, after-work drink, family catch-up, live sport or a night of live music, there’s always something happening at the Bank. 

Our friendly team and local feel make everyone welcome, from long-time Newtown locals and nearby workers to visitors discovering the area for the first time. 

Our History 

Bank Hotel was built in 1879 and opened its doors in 1880. However, a pub has stood on the site since as early as 1858. 

The hotel was designed by local architect and engineer James Nangle, with Ralph Mason as its first licensee. The name was inspired by Newtown’s growing financial and commercial centre, with several banks opening nearby during the late 19th century. 

The hotel became even busier when trams began running along King Street in 1882. Commuters would stop in for a drink as they travelled through the growing suburb. 

The original building featured a front verandah and was later extended at the rear in 1906. In 1930, the hotel was renovated and given its distinctive Interwar Art Deco façade, which remains a key feature of the building today.

The Metcalf Family 

The Metcalf family played an important role in the hotel’s history during the 1950s and 1960s. 

Hector Metcalf was recorded as the owner and publican during this period, when the hotel was often referred to as “Metcalf’s Bank Hotel”. Members of the Metcalf family also lived upstairs at the hotel, with generations growing up on the premises throughout the 1960s. 

Food, Drinks and Entertainment 

Bank Hotel is home to several spaces, each with its own atmosphere and offering. 

Our menus feature pub favourites with a Mediterranean influence, including the famous Bank Cheeseburger, flatbreads, schnitties, parmis and plenty of shareable dishes. 

Enjoy a meal in the Garden Bar, a drink in the Public Bar, sports in the Terrace Bar or a relaxed afternoon in one of our leafy beer gardens.

Waywards Ballroom 

Located upstairs, Waywards Ballroom is an iconic live music and entertainment venue with a strong connection to Sydney’s Inner West. 

Since opening in 2015, Waywards has become known for its energetic live shows and diverse entertainment program. The venue has hosted emerging punk, indie, alternative rock and hip-hop artists, as well as drag shows, dance parties and queer events. 

Following major refurbishments in 2019 and 2025, Waywards Ballroom continues to bring fresh energy to Newtown with regular live music and late-night events. 

It is also home to Birdcage, a popular weekly lesbian party that has become a much-loved part of Sydney’s queer nightlife. 

Our Community 

Bank Hotel has long been a gathering place for the Newtown community. 

We’re proud to offer a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for everyone – including our four-legged friends. The hotel regularly supports local events and hosts Dog Days throughout the year, featuring dog-friendly stalls, photo opportunities, treats and visits from vets and the RSPCA. 

From a quick drink and a bite to eat to a late night at Waywards Ballroom, Bank Hotel continues to celebrate the people, music and community that make Newtown unique.