Citigate Central Sydney

The location, façade and foundation of Citigate Central Sydney is steeped in Australian history and has been offering its owners, lodgers and residents restful accommodation and a gateway to Sydney’s premium produce for over 120 years.

Haymarket

Governor Bourke decided in 1834 to move traders in hay and grain to a site next to the new cattle market in Campbell Street, Sydney.  This area became colloquially known as Haymarket.  Governor Bourke's decision to allow the market to stay open until 10pm on Saturdays marks the real beginnings of what we know today as Sydney's Paddy's Markets.

By 1842, when the markets came under the jurisdiction of Sydney Council, the Saturday Paddy's-style market was well established

Paddy’s Markets

The origin of the name Paddy's has been in use since at least the 1870s.  It was most likely "borrowed" from England.  The Irish area of Liverpool had a well known Paddy's Market and what went on in the empty block opposite the market sheds was in essence the same as our original Paddy's.

A Paddy's Market was an open air affair, a mixture of merry-go-rounds, sideshows, saveloy sellers, farmers with produce and animals for sale, second hand dealers, craftsmen and members of the rag trade.

Field House

Field House and Thomas Street is named after Thomas and Herbert Field, two brothers who emigrated with their families in 1885 from Kent, England.  The two brothers found their niche in the fresh produce market and developed a booming business in the heart of Sydney’s trade centre.  By the time of World War 1 the Field brothers controlled one-third of Sydney's wholesale meat business.  By 1931 T. A. Field Ltd had grown into a meat and pastoral empire, with headquarters in Thomas Street, Sydney, and interests extending throughout eastern Australia.

During the great depression the Field brothers opened their doors to house the governments Outdoor Relief and Stores Department.  This Department carried out major assistance to the needy citizens of Sydney by providing basic dietary requirements.  Over the years, economic and natural disasters placed immense pressures on the resources, reaching a peak when in 1930 over 10,000 people were assisted each week and 3,705 tons of food was distributed over the year.  The location of the Thomas Street premises being so close to Central Station meant that an Outpatients Department and Dispensary also operated there 7 days a week until the mid 1950’s.

Today, Citigate Central Sydney dominates this historic site.  The heritage listed and beautifully renovated “Field House” forms the entrance and lobby area of our beloved hotel.  This low-rise, historic sandstone building lends an air of old world charm and traditional style combined with the utmost comfort which we believe is reflected in our accommodation, personalised service and dining options.

We are proud to continue the tradition of providing our guests premium accommodation and the freshest produce in the heart of Sydney.

Enjoy!

Citigate Central Sydney has received certified NABERS Hotel Energy and Hotel Water Ratings -awarded 2 star for energy and 2.5 stars for water.  These ratings play an important role in the hotels sustainability management plan.

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