The Bank Bed and Breakfast, c. 1891
History
Sitting proudly in the main street of Hay, the heart of the Riverina, The Bank Bed & Breakfast was built in 1891 as The London Chartered Bank. It then became known as the London Bank of Australia, and finally, the English Scottish Australian Bank Company. An impressive architectural achievement of its time, with its grand arched entryway, ornate leadlight windows, sweeping cedar staircase and marble fireplaces, the building helped establish Hay as a prosperous rural town - and today, Hay remains at the centre of what is regarded as one of the best Merino wool production regions in Australia.
From the late 1900s, The Bank Bed & Breakfast was converted into a grand Victorian residence, and has been held in the Smith family for three generations. Your host Sheila Smith and her husband look forward to welcoming you upon arrival.
Beautifully restored, the building’s heritage features have been carefully preserved, including soaring 15-foot ceilings, polished floorboards, solid brass door handles, and local red gum benches. The original bank chamber also remains in situ.
Accommodation
Sleeps 4 | Bedrooms 2 | Bathrooms 1
When you stay at The Bank Bed and Breakfast, you will have exclusive access to the entire top floor. There are two bedrooms, one with a king bed, and the second bedroom with twin king singles, all with luxurious bedding and crisp cotton sheets for a blissful night’s sleep. Both couples and families are welcome.
The modern bathroom has a large shower and deep freestanding bath to relax in, with complimentary botanical Eloura Australia amenities. There’s a spacious private drawing room, with an elegant blend of contemporary and antique furniture. Your host Sheila is also an accomplished interior designer, and each room has been uniquely styled with carefully-curated objects, vintage curios, and local artwork that reflects the history of the building and the region.
Accommodation also features a wide terrace, spanning the entire width of the building - a lovely spot to unwind with a glass of wine at sunset. Enjoy coffee and a cooked breakfast of fresh local produce in the either the sitting room, or out on the terrace in the morning sunshine.
A traditional bed & breakfast with warm hospitality, coupled with outstanding accommodation, The Bank Bed and Breakfast is the perfect place to experience the beauty and spirit of country Australia.
Special Features
Families Welcome
Guest Drawing Room
Artwork & Antiques
Breakfast Provided
Things To Do
Set in the main street of Hay, The Bank Bed & Breakfast is a short stroll to cafes, restaurants and parks. Hay dates to 1859, and has a rich history - in the late 1800s, Cobb & Co operated from Hay for over 30 years. Take the Hay Heritage walk that features beautiful historic buildings throughout the town, and visit the Hay Gaol Museum - the gaol dates to 1880, and has a fascinating past. Also worth visiting is Bishop’s Lodge Heritage House and Garden, built from iron in 1888, and wander the old heritage rose garden, with its historic, unique rose varieties.
The surrounding Riverina area has much to offer, and the Hay Plains, the flattest place in the Southern Hemisphere, offer incredible 360 degree sunset views, making it a spectacular backdrop for landscape photographers and stargazers. There are also many walks and trails nearby to explore, including the Bidgee Riverside Trail, that runs along the banks of the Murrumbidgee River.
