Ya can’t halt progress as they say, and while we’ll be a little sad to say goodbye to the Esplanade Hotel in Freo’s retro atrium vibes, we’re excited to see what comes next for a spot that’s been a proper port city mainstay for a looooong time.

Troy Mutton, Editor-in-Chief, Perth is OK!

NEWS

Freo’s Esplanade Hotel celebrates 130th birthday with huge upgrades

The Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges is about to undergo a huge refurbishment – just in time for the Fremantle icon to celebrate its 130th birthday.

The upgrades to the 300-room hotel will start this month, and the staged works are hoped to be completed by mid-2027. The hotel accommodation and both the Ball & Chain and Marine Lounge Bar will remain open to guests throughout.

Working with architectural firm Hames Sharley, the works will focus on upgrading the hotel lobby and the Atrium Garden Restaurant – as well as a major upgrade to the hotel’s conference and events capabilities, with audio-visual additions including LED walls and enhanced lighting systems.

“As the building approaches its 130-year anniversary, it feels like the right moment to honour its history while preparing it for the next generation of guests,” said the hotel’s General Manager, Jacqueline Comb.

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