New life has been breathed into this iconic Newcastle corner
For generations, the corner of King and Darby Streets has been a social landmark in Newcastle. Most Novocastrians will have a memory or two from the long-standing pub formerly known as Finnegans.
Now, thanks to new owners Cath Antaw and Stewart Smith – the duo behind The Great Northern Hotel in Teralba and formerly of The Commonwealth Hotel in Cooks Hill – this historic spot has been reimagined as the George Darby Hotel.
“We completed the purchase of Finnegans Hotel in March 2025 and immediately set about undertaking a refurbishment to convert the pub from the previous nightclub offering to a traditional food and beverage pub,” Cath said.
The vision was to create a central hub for the community, a place equally suited for a pre-show dinner as it is for a lazy afternoon watching the world go by.
The revamped venue offers a variety of spaces to suit guests. Downstairs, the public bar stays true to its pub roots with some fresh additions including new carpet, beer system, furniture, and restored original leadlight windows (that were found hiding away in the venue’s attic).
Head upstairs and that’s where you can get a full understanding of the renovation that has taken place. The dedicated dining space offers great views over Civic Park, includes the installation of a brand-new elevator, and even comes complete with a baby grand piano.
Sports fans can also make themselves at home in the purpose-built sports bar, home to Newcastle’s longest television screen.
The name George Darby isn’t just a clever nod to the intersection. In the mid-1800s, George Darby was a surveyor for the Australian Agricultural Company, responsible for shaping much of Newcastle East, Cooks Hill, Bar Beach, and beyond.
“At one point, he lived in a house on Darby Street that now comprises Newcastle Art Gallery, and he’s buried in the Christ Church Cathedral Cemetery. Darby Street was named after him, and we thought it was a fitting way to honour the history of this place.”
When it comes to food, George Darby Hotel is in expert hands. Group Executive Chef, Scott Webster – a Michelin-starred talent and long-time local restaurateur – joins forces with Head Chef Caleb Moore, whose impressive career includes leading the kitchen at the Australian Embassy in Washington, DC.
“Born and bred Novocastrians, Caleb and Scott are perfectly placed to ensure the food is traditional yet elevated.”
Together, they’ve crafted a menu that honours pub tradition while lifting it to new heights. Expect all the classics, premium Australian beef cuts, gluten-free options, and a selection of elevated share plates.
Soon, a selection of modern Australian dishes and a weekday $18 express lunch menu will also join the lineup.
While the food, drinks, and atmosphere are already drawing in crowds – as well as those looking for a cheeky revisit to old times – there’s much more on the horizon for this iconic venue with the baby grand hinting at future evenings filled with live local music.
