Geraldton’s first pub, the Geraldton Hotel, was built in 1858 on Gregory Street where it still stands today. The earliest recorded licence at the Revenues Office can be found in the 1860 Government Gazette.

The Hotel was an important building during the early history of Geraldton. Meetings of The Geraldton Town Council were held there until the (old) Council Chambers were built on Gregory St in 1871. Due to the shortage of medical facilities in Geraldton, it was not uncommon for women to stay in the accommodation to give birth.

In 1874, it was the venue for an extravagant meal prepared for the explorers John and Alexander Forrest on the eve of their second journey across Australia. A plaque commemorating this historic event can be found on the present building.

The Geraldton Hotel stands as a fine example of the colourful history of early Western Australian life.