Grand Victorian-era hotel opposite Parliament House, open since 1883 and famous for its traditional afternoon tea.
The Hotel Windsor stands at 111 Spring Street in the CBD, directly opposite Parliament House and Parliament train station, and a short walk from the Bourke Street shopping strip and Melbourne's Chinatown. Built in 1883, it is one of the last surviving grand nineteenth-century hotels in Australia, retaining its ornate Victorian facade, sweeping staircase and heritage-listed interiors. Rooms are split between Classic Rooms, Heritage Rooms with period furnishings and higher-floor Tower Suites, each finished with a mix of antique-style decor and modern comforts. The hotel is best known for its traditional afternoon tea, served daily in the grand Ballroom or 111 Spring Street restaurant, alongside a classic hotel bar popular with parliamentarians and theatre-goers from the nearby Princess Theatre and Comedy Theatre. There is no pool, but a small fitness centre and full room service are available. Service has a formal, old-world character suited to guests seeking heritage charm over contemporary amenities, and the location makes it convenient for both business visits to the parliamentary precinct and evenings at the Theatre District.
| Price | $$$$ |
|---|---|
| Address | 111 Spring St, Melbourne VIC 3000 |
Room types
- Classic Room
- Heritage Room
- Tower Suite
Amenities
- fitness center
- restaurant
- bar
- concierge
- wifi
- room service
Location
111 Spring St, Melbourne VIC 3000
-37.8119, 144.9729 View on map
Highlights
- Heritage-listed 1883 building opposite Parliament House
- Traditional afternoon tea in the historic Ballroom
- Walking distance to the Princess Theatre and Comedy Theatre
- Classic hotel bar with a long parliamentary history
- Central Spring Street location near Bourke Street shopping
Tips for visiting
- Book afternoon tea ahead of time, particularly around Melbourne Cup and Christmas seasons
- Heritage Rooms retain original architectural features but can be smaller than modern hotels
- Parliament train station is at the doorstep for quick access to the wider rail network
- Ask for a Spring Street-facing room for views of Parliament House
When to visit
Visit in late afternoon for the traditional high tea sitting, or during the Melbourne Cup carnival for the hotel's seasonal decor.
Accessibility
Being a heritage building, accessibility is limited in some historic sections; the hotel offers a small number of accessible rooms and advises contacting the property ahead of arrival to confirm specific mobility needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the hotel within walking distance of the theatre district?
Yes, the Princess Theatre and Comedy Theatre are both within a few minutes' walk.
Does the hotel have a swimming pool?
No, the property does not have a pool, though a small fitness centre is available.
Is afternoon tea available to non-guests?
Yes, the Ballroom afternoon tea is open to the public with advance booking recommended.