The Historic Empire Hotel in Ross is a well-known West Coast landmark with a strong sense of local history and personality. Originally built in 1866, it was rebuilt in 1908 after a fire, with an exterior of wood and corrugated iron – fireproof and practical for the gold rush town. Today, it’s a lively pub that reflects over a century of Ross’s history.
Location
Situated on Aylmer Street just across from the Ross Historic Goldfields & Heritage Centre, the Empire Hotel is in the heart of the town’s historic core. It’s a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Dining & Bar
The hotel offers full buffet lunches for groups and individuals, serving hearty and satisfying food. The bar opens at 12 p.m. and stays open until midnight. Most nights, you can enjoy a buffet dinner or fish and chips. On Fridays, the pub is famous for burger nights, and on Sundays, they serve a traditional roast with homemade desserts. It’s a place where good food and a relaxed atmosphere combine.
The Atmosphere & History
Inside, the walls are decorated with local history – banknotes hanging from the ceiling, old photos, hunting trophies, and lumps of coal tell the story of Ross’s gold rush past. The hotel feels unchanged over the years, with a cozy fire to warm up near during colder nights. Every Sunday, there’s live music in the garden bar, and on the last Friday of each month, visitors can bring an instrument for a jam session.
Accommodation & Facilities
The hotel has a range of options: in-house rooms with private ensuites, shared facility rooms, hostel-style backpacker accommodation, and camping sites with shared kitchens, showers, and laundry. This variety makes it suitable for travelers on different budgets or those wanting a simple overnight stay or longer-term option.
What Makes It Special
This pub is one of the last authentic “bawdy” establishments remaining in Ross – truly a survivor of the gold rush era. Its warm atmosphere, rich history, and lively community events make it more than just a place to eat and drink; it’s a piece of local heritage.
Overall
The Empire Hotel offers an authentic West Coast pub experience – good food, history, music, and a friendly, relaxed crowd. It’s ideal for those wanting to soak up local history while enjoying hearty meals and a lively atmosphere.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
✔ Historic building with a real gold rush atmosphere
✔ Wide range of accommodations: rooms, shared facilities, backpacker and camping sites
✔ Regular live music and community events
✔ Full buffet lunch and dinner, Sunday roasts, and Friday burger nights
✔ Friendly atmosphere with lots of character
✔ Close to Ross Goldfields & Heritage Centre
Cons:
✘ Some rooms have shared facilities, which may not suit everyone
✘ Not a luxury hotel – basic and authentic experience
✘ Limited modern amenities and comfort features
Overall, the Empire Hotel in Ross is a true West Coast experience – rich in history, friendly in spirit, and perfect for travelers wanting an authentic pub and lodge experience in a historic gold rush town.