The Grand National Hotel by Saint Peter

The Grand National Hotel by Saint Peter Overview

You know what struck me first about The Grand National Hotel? It’s actually tucked away on Underwood Street in a way that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special – not hidden exactly, but sort of removed from the tourist madness while still being right in the heart of Paddington. I mean, you’re literally a five-minute walk from Oxford Street’s shops and cafes, but the street itself has this quiet, almost residential feel that’s honestly refreshing.

The building itself is gorgeous – proper heritage architecture that they’ve restored without making it feel like a museum. When you walk into the lobby, there’s this beautiful old-world charm mixed with modern touches that actually work together (which, let’s be honest, doesn’t always happen). The staff at check-in knew their stuff too – they pointed me toward this little laneway cafe around the corner that I never would have found otherwise, and gave me the real scoop on avoiding the crowds at the nearby galleries. The rooms are spacious by Sydney standards, and I loved that they kept original features like the high ceilings and period moldings while adding things like rainfall showers and really comfortable beds. The soundproofing is excellent too – important when you’re in the city but want to actually sleep.

What really sets this place apart though is how it feels connected to the neighborhood. Paddington has this fantastic mix of Victorian terraces, boutique shopping, and that village-y atmosphere that makes it one of Sydney’s most liveable areas. You can walk to Centennial Park for morning runs, pop over to the famous Paddington Markets on Saturdays, or just wander the tree-lined streets checking out the galleries and vintage shops. The hotel staff clearly gets this – they’re not just recommending the obvious tourist spots but actually know the area like locals do. I remember asking about dinner recommendations and getting directions to three different places based on what I was in the mood for, not just “the restaurant downstairs.” The service throughout felt personal rather than scripted, which makes such a difference. Even small things like the concierge remembering I’d mentioned wanting to catch a show and following up with last-minute ticket options – that’s the kind of attention that turns a good stay into a great one. With that 9.7 rating, you’d expect it to be special, and it honestly lives up to it without feeling pretentious about it.

The Grand National Hotel by Saint Peter Accommodations

Reviews of The Grand National Hotel by Saint Peter

• Gorgeous would recommend. – Heidi from Australia – 9 July 2025 (10/10)

  Designed beautifully and elegant throughout.
  
  What could be improved: A few more staff on hand would have made the stay a little more relaxing.

• Fabulous personal service and wonderful accommodation – O’brien from Australia – 28 June 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful building, the room was small but so tastefully decorated. It was quiet and in a very pretty part of Paddington
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• An exceptional experience from start to finish. – Philip from Australia – 3 May 2025 (10/10)

  The elegance. The thoughtful service. Excellent breakfast.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Para volver siempre. – Vilaplana from Australia – 14 June 2025 (10/10)

  Arquitectura e interiorismo.

• “Una gema hotelera” – Vilaplana from Australia – 13 June 2025 (10/10)

  Ubicación + instalaciones y profesionalismo del personal.

• Very good – Susie from Australia – 29 June 2025 (8/10)

Surroundings

Facilities