About cooktown hotel
Established in 1874, the Cooktown Hotel is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks and a proud part of Cooktown’s rich history. This beautiful two-storey weatherboard pub has welcomed travellers, locals and adventurers for generations, offering the kind of relaxed hospitality that North Queensland is known for. With its classic verandas, historic charm and warm atmosphere, the hotel remains a true gathering place in the heart of town.
Affectionately known by locals as “The Top Pub” or “The Toppie,” the Cooktown Hotel is a favourite spot to catch up with friends, enjoy a cold drink and soak up the laid-back character of Cooktown. Whether you’re visiting after a day exploring Cape York, coming in for a casual meal, or staying the night, the hotel offers great food, comfortable accommodation and regular entertainment in a friendly pub setting.
Today, the Cooktown Hotel continues its long tradition as a welcoming destination for both locals and visitors alike. With hearty pub meals, refreshing drinks and a genuine country-pub atmosphere, it’s a place where stories are shared, friendships are made and everyone is made to feel right at home
The Story of The Cooktown Hotel
The White Horse Hotel: 1874 - 1885
Founded by Andrew Threadgold in 1874 during the gold rush, the White Horse Hotel was a bustling stop for miners, adventurers, and travellers heading to the Palmer River Goldfields.
The Commercial Hotel: 1885 - 1982
In 1885, John Keating rebuilt and renamed it the Commercial Hotel, adding a second story in 1889. Know as ‘The Racing Man’s Pub,’ it was a popular spot for town events & local gatherings for nearly a century.
The Cooktown Hotel: 1982 - Today
Renamed the Cooktown Hotel in 1982, and now owned by Chris Lemke, the hotel remains ‘The Top Pub’, welcoming locals and visitors with great food, live music and comfortable accommodation in our historical Queensland setting.
The White Horse Hotel and the Commercial Hotel photos supplied by Cooktown History Centre with thanks. https://www.cooktownhistory.org.au/