QT Newcastle breathes new life into local landmark

Newcastle’s transformation from Hunter Valley gateway to fully-realised destination in its own right has just experienced a significant boost, with the city’s second five star hotel – the playful yet luxurious QT Newcastle – officially opening its doors this week.

The heritage listed building was previously home to Scotts Limited and David Jones.

Housed within a 113-year-old heritage listed building on Hunter Mall, formerly home to David Jones, the newly-revamped address is set to become a hive of local activity once again, with 104 stylish rooms and suites alongside two sensational dining options.

Jana restaurant is overseen by Chef Massimo Speroni, well-known for his work at Bacchus Brisbane.

Callum Kennedy, QT Hotels & Resorts Group General Manager, describes the Newcastle hotel as the latest evolution in the brand’s collection, which began with the QT Gold Coast and now counts 10 properties across Australia and New Zealand within its stable. 

The light-filled Clock Suite enjoys stunning views to the waterfront and beyond.

“QT Newcastle will live and breathe the same vibrancy and energy guests love from the world of QT, championing luxurious quirk and exciting collaborations in the Newcastle community,” Kennedy adds.

Decor follows the brand's signature style, with an industrial twist.

Styling will be immediately familiar to anyone who’s checked into its sister properties in Sydney and Perth, with the Newcastle arrival employing the same penchant for bold colours and highly textured finishes, with a slightly more industrial-chic vibe inspired by the city.

Psychedelic colours set the tone at the hotel's elevators.

Each of its rooms feature brushed brass accents, charcoal-black perforated metal wardrobes, and rusted red minibars, together with colourful throws, emerald bathroom tiling, and highly textural soft furnishings. Some also boast views to the harbour or cathedral. 

Some rooms have views to the Newcastle Cathedral.

The hotel’s most unique offering is its Clock Suite, located inside the building’s iconic dome, with the restored clock face and mechanism in place of one of the bathroom windows. Sweeping views to the waterfront can also be enjoyed from the balcony.

Guests can check in, unlock the room, order room service and request amenities through the hotel’s app. High speed WiFi is free, while valet and self parking are available at a fee.

The restored clock face and mechanism take pride of place in the bathroom.

At ground level is signature venue Jana, overseen by award-winning Executive Chef Massimo Speroni, who brings star-studded experience from Italy’s two Michelin-starred restaurant San Domenico in Imola, and the one-starred Café le Paillotes in Pescara. 

By day, Rooftop at QT enjoy sweeping views to Nobby's Lighthouse.

Named after the goddess Diana, also known as Jana, the signature steak restaurant is a celebration of local Hunter produce, inviting diners to linger longer with the warmth of an open kitchen, eye-catching artworks, and a stunning private dining room.

Upstairs you’ll find the Rooftop at QT bar, a Japanese izakaya plating up share-ready morsels such as salmon sashimi, yakitori chicken and miso eggplant robata skewers, backed up by a lengthy cocktail menu and the city’s largest Japanese whisky collection.

Rooftop at QT opts for a Japanese izakaya-inspired menu, with cocktails to match.

With the meandering Foreshore Footpath just across the road, it’s also a casual 10-minute stroll to the beachfront and Foreshore Park – popular for an alfresco picnic, a cheeky surf, or a relaxed sunset in the shadow of Nobby’s Lighthouse.

As dusk falls, Rooftop at QT switches gear into a late-night dining venue.

QT Hotels & Resorts is part of the Priority Guest Rewards loyalty program, with members enjoying exclusive rates and benefits, plus free nights and complimentary room upgrades at its top tiers.