URGENT UPDATE: Gunnedah’s oldest pub, the Imperial Hotel, is officially on the market as the owner seeks to dedicate more time to his farm. This iconic venue, affectionately known as “The People’s Pub,” has served patrons since 1878 and is expected to attract significant interest ahead of its sale deadline on March 13.
Located at the bustling corner of Chandos and Barber streets, the Imperial Hotel offers a rare “vacant possession” opportunity. According to HTL Property, the agents handling the sale, this prominent establishment is ideally situated within walking distance of Gunnedah’s main shopping and business areas.
Ben Kennedy from HTL Property emphasized the venue’s potential, stating, “With a substantial landholding and flexible zoning, the fundamentals are sound. It is a venue that can be operated or repositioned immediately.” The agents are optimistic about the pub’s future, envisioning it continuing to serve the community, especially as Gunnedah experiences a growth surge.
The town currently enjoys a robust “workforce demand and hospitality spend,” making the Imperial Hotel not just a profitable venture but also a beloved local institution. Paddy Dalton from HTL noted, “It’s a pub with a loyal local following and a strong story.”
Expressions of interest for the pub will close at 4 PM on March 13, unless an earlier sale occurs. The urgency for potential buyers is heightened by the increasing hospitality interest in the region. Notably, the Central Hospitality Group recently revealed plans for a groundbreaking $17.4 million luxury hotel development in Gunnedah, approved by the Gunnedah Shire Council in December 2025. This multi-storey hotel will bring 70 rooms and additional amenities, marking a significant investment in the area.
As the bidding for the Imperial Hotel heats up, its historical significance and community ties make it a prime opportunity for investors looking to enter Gunnedah’s thriving hospitality scene. With significant interest already reported, the time is ticking for potential buyers to act before the deadline.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Gunnedah’s iconic pub could soon change hands. The local community eagerly anticipates the next chapter for the Imperial Hotel.
