The Bat and Ball Hotel, a beloved watering hole for sports enthusiasts since the 1930s, has reopened its doors after months of renovation, breathing new life into this historic establishment.
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The pub, located near Cleveland and Dowling Streets, has long been a favourite pit stop for fans heading to and from the nearby Sydney Cricket Ground and Moore Park stadiums.
On 16 August 2024, patrons were welcomed back to a refreshed Bat and Ball, now under the management of JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group. This change comes after Universal Hotels sold the leasehold earlier this year. The new management has taken a thoughtful approach to the renovation, choosing to enhance the pub’s existing charm rather than impose a completely new identity.
The new management wanted to pay homage to the traditional pub. This philosophy is evident in the carefully curated blend of old and new throughout the establishment.
The Bat and Ball’s history is as rich as its new offerings. Originally built in 1929 as “The Duke of Cleveland,” the pub was demolished and rebuilt in 1931, adopting its current name in 1937. This latest renovation marks another chapter in its storied past.
While preserving its classic Aussie pub essence, the new Bat and Ball has elevated its offerings. Patrons can still enjoy their favourite beers on tap and the quintessential chicken schnitzel, but now with the added luxury of an improved wine selection and streamlined cocktail menu.
This balance of tradition and modernity extends to entertainment as well. Sports fans need not worry – the televisions screening matches remain, but the pokies have been removed, making way for a more diverse crowd.
Music lovers will appreciate the introduction of vinyl DJs on Friday and Saturday nights, adding a touch of nostalgia to the weekend atmosphere. The pub’s 2:00 a.m. licence ensures that the good times can roll well into the night.
The revival of The Bat and Ball comes at a time when there’s a growing appreciation for Sydney’s pub heritage. In July, a submission was made to the NSW Government to preserve 22 historic pubs in the city’s Inner West, including notable establishments like the Duke of Enmore, Vic on the Park, and the Annandale Hotel.
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As Sydney’s pub landscape continues to evolve, The Bat and Ball stands as a shining example of how to honour tradition while embracing the future. Whether you’re a longtime regular or a curious newcomer, this revamped classic promises a warm welcome and a fresh experience in a setting steeped in history.
Published 26-August-2024
