Citigate Central Sydney

The location, façade & foundation of Citigate Central Sydney is steeped in Australian history & has been offering its owners, lodgers & residents restful accommodation & 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 10.00pm 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 & Thomas Street is named after Thomas & 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 & 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 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, personalized service & dining options.

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

Enjoy!