About Us

The Prince of Wales Hotel in Ipswich, Queensland, has stood as a social and architectural landmark for well over a century, reflecting the city’s early growth and evolving character. Established in the latter half of the 19th century, when Ipswich was a thriving river port and bustling commercial hub, the hotel quickly became a focal point for travelers, local workers, and residents alike. Its name—an homage to British royalty—signals the era’s colonial ties and the desire to bring a touch of sophistication to a frontier community.

Originally a modest establishment, the Prince of Wales Hotel benefited from Ipswich’s prosperity, expanding and modernizing as the city matured around it. Its design features and subsequent renovations chart changing architectural tastes—from simple timber construction to more robust, decorative façades reflecting the optimism of the late Victorian and Edwardian periods. Over time, ownership passed through the hands of local families and hoteliers, each leaving their mark on the building and its operations.

Image credit to Ipswich Library.

By the early 20th century, the Prince of Wales Hotel had secured its role as a community meeting place. It hosted social gatherings, local events, and provided lodging for visitors who came to Ipswich for business, trade, or leisure. The hotel’s strategic position along Brisbane Street, one of the city’s main thoroughfares, ensured it remained in step with the community’s heart and pulse.

Though the cityscape around it has modernised, the Prince of Wales Hotel in Ipswich CBD endures as a tangible link to Ipswich’s past. Today, heritage-conscious stewardship has preserved much of its historic charm, allowing guests to experience not only a drink or meal but also a piece of Queensland’s living history.