QT Canberra
Canberra, Australia
Canberra Central
Vibe
Political satire meets high-octane theatricality in the buzzy lobby, setting an irreverent tone calibrated for Canberra's power players.
“Satirical political clubhouse”
Interiors by Nic Graham feature bespoke retro furniture, vibrant colour blocking, and satirical portraits of former prime ministers.
Late-night drinks flow across Lucky's Speakeasy, the ground-floor Capitol Bar, and the members-style QT Lounge on Level 15.
The property leans into Canberra's political culture with themed room keys, national capital motifs, and district wines.
In the NewActon precinct near Civic, a short walk from Lake Burley Griffin.
“The businesslike tower that contains QT Canberra gives little hint of what’s inside; like all the QT hotels, it’s stylish to an extreme.”
Rooms
Light-filled rooms feature cheeky political cues and DIY cocktail setups, with select categories offering private balconies facing the lake.
“Its location, the former Rydges Landmark hotel in the emerging precinct of New Acton, has been transformed inside and out by designer Nic Graham...”
Backstory
Long known as the Lakeside Hotel, the 1970s tower once hosted political power lunches and press conferences before its sharp reinvention.
Eat & drink
Capitol Bar & Grill centers on wood-fired cooking and local wines, while Lucky's Speakeasy hides behind a traditional barber shop.
The neighborhood
Anchored in the NewActon precinct, you are steps from cultural spaces and a short stroll from Lake Burley Griffin.
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.