What’s it like to stay in the heart of Sydney’s historic area? Read our Tank Stream Hotel review and discover Sydney’s hidden history with a captivating walking tour of The Rocks, revealing its dark and intriguing secrets. Crime and corruption, foul play and infidelity, today’s headlines have nothing on Sydney’s dirty secrets Eat drink and be Kerry dishes out the watery truth!
The Tank Stream Hotel Review
Experience the vibrant pulse of Sydney with a stay at The Tank Stream Hotel. Located in the city’s bustling core, this hotel offers more than just comfort and convenience. You can also dive into the fascinating and often dark history of Sydney’s convict past with a captivating walking tour of The Rocks.
From the moment you step into The Tank Stream Hotel, you’re connected to Sydney’s storied history. The Tank Stream itself winds its way from the hotel entrance to Circular Quay, an underground remnant from the days when rum ruled the streets. Back then, the streets echoed with tales of shanghaied cabin boys, dark tunnels, and the infamous Push, who claimed their victims with socks of sand.
Enjoy a few nights at The Tank Stream Hotel, and let the secrets of Sydney unfold around you. This unique combination of modern comfort and historical intrigue promises an unforgettable stay in one of the world’s most iconic cities. Read The Tank Stream review at the end of the post.
From the entrance of Tank Stream Hotel, the Tank Stream winds its way to Circular Quay. This underground remnant from Sydney’s convict past is a link to days when rum ruled the streets. When sourcing a new cabin boy was as easy as dragging a shanghaied, drugged lad through a dark tunnel, and the Push claimed its victims with socks of sand.
The finest harbour in the world
The city of Sydney was ‘born’ on January 26, 1788, against the backdrop of what Captain Arthur Phillip would later describe as the “finest harbour in the world.” This day marked the arrival of the First Fleet, a convoy of 11 ships carrying convicts, marines, and supplies from Britain, establishing the first European settlement in Australia.
Initially, the colony was intended to be established at Botany Bay, where Captain James Cook had landed 18 years earlier. However, upon arrival, Captain Phillip found Botany Bay unsuitable due to its lack of reliable freshwater sources. This critical need for freshwater led Phillip to explore further north, eventually discovering Sydney Cove. The natural cove provided not only a safe and strategic harbour but also a freshwater stream, making it an ideal location for the nascent colony.
In those early days, the stream was open and visible, running from a swamp in what is now Hyde Park. It flowed through the area, forming small waterfalls across what would become Bridge Street, and continued its journey out to the harbour at what is now known as Circular Quay. This freshwater stream was vital to the survival of the early settlers, providing them with the necessary resources to sustain the colony.
The decision to relocate the settlement to Sydney Cove was pivotal. The abundant natural resources, combined with the strategic advantage of a sheltered harbour, set the stage for the growth and development of what would become one of the world’s great cities. Today, Sydney Harbour remains a defining feature of the city, reflecting both its historical significance and its continuing importance as a hub of activity and commerce.
Take a Walking Tour of The Rocks
Walking trails are a popular way to explore the area with North American visitors and, increasingly, travellers from Denmark who want to see the Sydney Opera House designed by their countrymen.
I spent two hours walking The Rocks district, learning about Sydney’s early establishment. The story starts with the British looking for a place to dump their undesirables after the American Revolution, somewhere like Australia. So they loaded up the ships and set sail.
These were harsh times. The Tank Stream got its name from the deep holes the convicts dug in the sandstone to create water tanks. They also dug into the side of cliffs to create primitive hole homes.
I stopped for a moment outside the oldest building in Sydney, Cadman’s Cottage, just near Circular Quay where there is a statue of William Bligh. The Rocks are full of the story of the Rum Rebellion when rum was the currency in Australia, and William Bligh was the man sent to whip the Rum Corps into shape. They marched up the street singing God Save the Queen and knocked on his door to put Bligh under house arrest for two years.
There’s also the anchor from the HMSS Sirius, which conveyed the first fleet from the Isle of Wight in 1787, to see.
Exploring Sydney’s Haunted History at The Hero of Waterloo
On a sweltering day in Sydney, I sought refuge with a welcome drink at the Hero of Waterloo, a pub that proudly claims to be Sydney’s oldest. This historic establishment, steeped in tales of the past, offers more than just a cold beverage.
Curiosity led me down to the cellar, where I discovered the grim reality of 1840s staff recruitment. Boys, drugged with a Mickey Finn, were locked up here before being shanghaied through a tunnel to sail away on ships for several months. Remarkably, some of these boys returned for a second stint by choice, or so the story goes.
However, not all of them survived these harsh conditions. The Hero of Waterloo has seen its share of untimely deaths, adding to its eerie reputation. It’s no surprise that this pub is considered Australia’s most haunted. As I stood in the cellar, the unpleasant smell and the chilling atmosphere made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.
Visiting the Hero of Waterloo is more than just a trip to the pub—it’s a journey into Sydney’s darker past, where the spirits of history still linger.
The Rocks Walking Tour
A walking tour of Sydney’s Rocks area offers a deep dive into history, from colonial beginnings to vibrant modern culture. Explore its heritage architecture, vibrant markets, and scenic views of Sydney Harbour. Discover hidden gems, hear tales of haunted spots, and gain local insights from knowledgeable guides. It’s a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a must-do for visitors wanting to experience Sydney’s rich past and dynamic present.
Here’s a Sydney Walking Tour of The Rocks to check out.
Hotel exterior – The Tank Stream Hotel review
Review – The Tank Stream Hotel
The Tank Stream Hotel enjoys a prime location in the heart of Sydney’s central business district, offering guests unparalleled convenience and a rich connection to the city’s history. Just minutes away from key landmarks such as Martin Place, Circular Quay, the Sydney Opera House, and Barangaroo, the hotel places you right in the midst of Sydney’s vibrant cultural and commercial hub.
The hotel is aptly named after the Tank Stream, a freshwater stream that played a crucial role in the survival and growth of the first European colony in Australia. This stream, which once flowed openly from a swamp in Hyde Park down to what is now Circular Quay, provided the essential water supply needed by early settlers. The Tank Stream’s historical significance is woven into the fabric of the hotel, reminding visitors of Sydney’s humble beginnings and its transformation into a bustling metropolis.
Staying at The Tank Stream Hotel offers more than just proximity to Sydney’s famous sites. The hotel itself stands as a testament to the city’s ability to preserve its rich heritage while embracing modernity. The contemporary design and amenities of the hotel provide guests with a comfortable and luxurious experience, all while being surrounded by the echoes of the past.
Room interior – The Tank Stream Hotel review
Room View – The Tank Stream Hotel review
A Cozy Retreat in the Heart of Sydney: My The Tank Stream Hotel Review
Stepping into my room at The Tank Stream Hotel, I was immediately struck by the warm monochrome décor and the large, centrally placed bed. The timber bedhead elegantly wraps around the bed, providing ample space for placing a cuppa or a book, making the room feel both functional and inviting. The integrated lighting is intuitive and easy to use, enhancing the room’s cozy atmosphere.
From my window, I could catch a small but charming glimpse of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, a reminder of the city’s beauty just outside. The concealed ceiling lighting adds a soft glow, accentuating the spacious and airy feel of the room. Under the television, a well-placed desk offers a convenient workspace, complete with plenty of power points and charging slots to keep all my devices powered up.
The bathroom, though not overly large, is cleverly designed to feel roomy and comfortable, with modern fixtures and a clean, efficient layout.
One of the standout features of my stay was the all-inclusive rate concept, which provided complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room movies, minibar soft drinks, and Nespresso coffee. It was a pleasant surprise to have reliable Wi-Fi that actually worked, unlike the often frustrating “pretend” signals found in some hotels. The complimentary minibar, stocked with muesli bars and juice, was a thoughtful touch that added to the convenience and comfort of my stay.
Dining at The Tank Stream Hotel is a delight, thanks to their French-styled bistro, Le Petit Flot. Overlooking one of Sydney’s historic laneways, the bistro features a menu showcasing local produce with French and Asian influences. Open for breakfast and dinner, it also offers a bento box-style takeaway option. After a day of exploring Sydney, I found it wonderfully convenient to stay curled up in bed and enjoy a healthy salmon dinner delivered to my room, making for a perfect end to an adventurous day.
My stay at The Tank Stream Hotel was a seamless blend of comfort, convenience, and historical charm, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to experience the best of Sydney. I hope this Tank Stream Hotel review helps you find your perfect Sydney stay.
Where to find The Tank Stream Hotel
The 4.5-star Tank Stream Hotel, located at 97 Pitt Street, Sydney, is perfectly positioned just a short walk from iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, Hyde Park, The Rocks, and Barangaroo. With easy access to trains, buses, and ferries, the hotel’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. I stayed in a Premium Queen room.
My stay at The Tank Stream Hotel was a seamless blend of comfort, convenience, and historical charm, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to experience the best of Sydney.
Where else to stay in Sydney?
Looking for other great Sydney hotels? Here are my reviews of Sofitel Darling Harbour and Hyatt Regency
Disclaimer: Ed+bK was a guest of the Tank Stream Hotel.
