If you are looking for a place to shop, dine, and explore in Sydney, look no further than the Queen Victoria Building, or QVB as it is popularly known. The QVB is a heritage-listed building that dates back to the 19th century and houses over 180 stores, cafes, restaurants, and galleries. The QVB is not only a shopping destination, but also a stunning example of Victorian architecture, with its elaborate facade, domes, windows, columns, and staircases.
Whether you are interested in history, culture, or fashion, the QVB has something for everyone. In this article, we will guide you through the QVB’s history, architecture, shopping, dining, attractions, and nearby places to visit. Read on to discover why the QVB is one of Sydney’s most beloved landmarks and a must-see for any visitor.
History of the QVB
The QVB was built between 1893 and 1898 as a municipal market hall, replacing the original Sydney markets that were demolished. The QVB was designed by George McRae, a Scottish architect who was inspired by the Romanesque Revival style. The QVB was named after Queen Victoria, who reigned over the British Empire at the time.
The QVB was intended to be a grand and elegant building that would showcase Sydney’s prosperity and progress. However, the QVB faced many challenges and threats over the years, such as the Great Depression, World War II, and plans to demolish it. Fortunately, the QVB was saved by a massive restoration project in the 1980s, which restored its original glory and beauty. Today, the QVB is a National Trust-listed building and a proud symbol of Sydney’s heritage and culture.
Architecture of the QVB
The QVB is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture, with its impressive dimensions, intricate details, and artistic features. The QVB occupies an entire city block and spans over 190 metres in length and 30 metres in width. The QVB has four main levels and two underground levels, connected by elevators, escalators, and bridges. The QVB has a central dome that rises 20 metres above the ground floor and is surrounded by 20 smaller domes.
The QVB has over 120 stained glass windows that depict various scenes and motifs, such as flowers, animals, and coats of arms. The QVB has over 70 columns that support the structure and add to its grandeur. The QVB has three magnificent staircases that lead to the upper levels, each with its own design and decoration. The QVB has a rich and varied collection of artworks, sculptures, and memorabilia that adorn its walls and floors, such as statues of Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth II, and Islay, the QVB’s resident dog.
Shopping at the QVB
The QVB is a shopper’s paradise, with over 180 stores that offer a wide range of products and services, from fashion and accessories, to jewellery and watches, to books and stationery, to gifts and souvenirs. The QVB has some of the most prestigious and exclusive brands in the world, such as Bvlgari, Dior, Versace, and Swarovski. The QVB also has some of the most unique and eclectic stores in Sydney, such as The Tea Room, The Nut Shop, and Haigh’s Chocolates. The QVB has something for every taste, budget, and occasion. Whether you are looking for a new outfit, a special gift, or a treat for yourself, you will find it at the QVB.
Here are some tips and suggestions for shopping at the QVB:
Plan your visit: The QVB is open every day from 9 am to 6 pm, except on Sundays and public holidays, when it closes at 5 pm. The QVB is busiest on weekends and during peak seasons, such as Christmas and Easter. To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience, visit the QVB on weekdays and early mornings or late afternoons.
Explore the upper levels: The QVB has four main levels, each with its own character and charm. The ground floor is the most popular and crowded, with its high-end stores and cafes. The first floor is the most elegant and refined, with its jewellery and watch stores and galleries. The second floor is the most diverse and eclectic, with its book and stationery stores and specialty shops. The third floor is the most hidden and quiet, with its antique and vintage stores and services. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the treasures and surprises that await you on the upper levels of the QVB.
Admire the windows: The QVB has over 120 stained glass windows that are not only beautiful, but also informative and historical. The windows depict various scenes and motifs, such as the history of Sydney, the flora and fauna of Australia, and the coats of arms of the British Empire. The windows also showcase the craftsmanship and skill of the artists who created them, such as William Bustard, John Radecki, and Leonard French. The windows are best viewed from the inside, where you can appreciate their colours and details. The windows are also illuminated at night, creating a stunning effect that can be seen from the outside.
Dining at the QVB
The QVB is a food lover’s delight, with over 30 cafes, restaurants, bars, and bakeries that offer a variety of cuisines, dishes, and drinks. The QVB has some of the most renowned and award-winning dining venues in Sydney, such as The Tea Room, Esquire Drink + Dine, and Reign. The QVB also has some of the most delicious and satisfying dining options in Sydney, such as The Palace Tea Room, The Nut Shop, and The Strand Arcade Patisserie. The QVB has something for every palate, mood, and time of day. Whether you are looking for a breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack, you will find it at the QVB. Here are some recommendations and reviews for dining at the QVB:
The Tea Room: The Tea Room is one of the most iconic and elegant dining venues in Sydney, located on the third floor of the QVB. The Tea Room offers a traditional and luxurious afternoon tea service, with a selection of fine teas, sandwiches, scones, cakes, and pastries. The Tea Room also offers a champagne and cocktail service, with a range of sparkling wines, spirits, and mixers. The Tea Room is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion, such as a birthday, anniversary, or wedding, or to treat yourself to a memorable and indulgent experience. The Tea Room is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, and reservations are essential.
Esquire Drink + Dine: Esquire Drink + Dine is one of the most stylish and sophisticated dining venues in Sydney, located on the second floor of the QVB. Esquire Drink + Dine offers a modern and refined menu, with a focus on quality ingredients, seasonal produce, and creative flavours. Esquire Drink + Dine also offers an extensive and curated wine list, with a selection of local and international wines, as well as a cocktail and spirits list, with a range of classic and signature drinks. Esquire Drink + Dine is the ideal place to enjoy a dinner, a drink, or a night out, with its chic and cosy atmosphere, live music, and attentive service. Esquire Drink + Dine is open daily from 12 pm to 12 am, and reservations are recommended.
The Palace Tea Room: The Palace Tea Room is one of the most charming and quaint dining venues in Sydney, located on the first floor of the QVB. The Palace Tea Room offers a casual and friendly afternoon tea service, with a choice of teas, coffees, juices, sandwiches, scones, cakes, and biscuits. The Palace Tea Room also offers a light and healthy lunch menu, with a variety of salads, soups, quiches, and pies. The Palace Tea Room is the perfect place to relax and unwind, with its warm and welcoming ambience, floral decor, and vintage furniture. The Palace Tea Room is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and walk-ins are welcome.
Attractions at the QVB
The QVB is not only a place to shop and dine, but also a place to explore and discover. The QVB has many attractions that showcase its history, culture, and art, such as its history tours, royal clock, wishing well, tea room, and art gallery. The QVB has something for everyone, from history buffs, to art lovers, to children. Whether you are looking for a guided tour, a self-guided tour, or a free tour, you will find it at the QVB. Here are some information and links for the attractions at the QVB:
QVB history tours:
The QVB history tours are guided tours that take you through the QVB’s history, architecture, and stories. The tours are led by expert and friendly guides, who will share with you the fascinating facts and anecdotes about the QVB, such as its origins, design, construction, opening, renovations, and restoration. The tours also include access to some of the QVB’s hidden and exclusive areas, such as the dome, the turret, and the boardroom. The tours last for about an hour and are suitable for all ages and abilities. The tours are available daily at 11:30 am and 2:30 pm, and cost $15 per person. You can book your tour online or at the QVB Concierge Desk on the ground floor.
Royal clock:
The royal clock is a mechanical clock that is located on the first floor of the QVB, near the central dome. The royal clock was installed in 1986 as part of the restoration project, and was designed by Neil Glasser, a clockmaker and jeweller. The royal clock features a series of scenes that depict the history of the British monarchy, from William the Conqueror to Queen Elizabeth II. The scenes are animated and accompanied by music and narration, and are activated every hour from 9 am to 9 pm. The royal clock is a captivating and educational attraction that showcases the QVB’s connection to the royal family and the British heritage.
Wishing well:
The wishing well is a bronze sculpture that is located on the ground floor of the QVB, near the southern entrance. The wishing well was unveiled in 1987 by Diana, Princess of Wales, who was visiting Australia with Prince Charles. The wishing well was created by Tom Bass, a renowned Australian sculptor, and was inspired by the legend of Islay, the QVB’s resident dog. The wishing well depicts a dog sitting on a pedestal, surrounded by water and coins. The wishing well is a charitable and sentimental attraction that invites visitors to make a wish and donate to the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children, a cause that was supported by Princess Diana and the QVB.
The Tea Room:
The Tea Room is an elegant and historic dining venue that is located on the third floor of the QVB, in the original Grand Ballroom. The Tea Room was established in 1997 by Manuel Spinola, a Portuguese entrepreneur and restaurateur, who wanted to revive the tradition and glamour of afternoon tea in Sydney. The Tea Room offers a classic and luxurious afternoon tea service, with a selection of fine teas, sandwiches, scones, cakes, and pastries, served on silverware and china. The Tea Room also offers a champagne and cocktail service, with a range of sparkling wines, spirits, and mixers. The Tea Room is a stunning and refined dining venue that transports visitors to a bygone era of elegance and sophistication.
Art gallery:
The art gallery is a contemporary and creative exhibition space that is located on the second floor of the QVB, near the northern entrance. The art gallery was opened in 2018 as part of the QVB’s 120th anniversary celebrations, and was curated by Amanda Love, a leading Australian art consultant and collector. The art gallery features a rotating collection of artworks by emerging and established Australian artists, such as Ben Quilty, Del Kathryn Barton, and Michael Zavros. The art gallery also hosts regular events and workshops, such as artist talks, panel discussions, and art classes. The art gallery is a vibrant and inspiring attraction that showcases the QVB’s support and appreciation for the local art scene.
Nearby Attractions
The QVB is not only a place to enjoy, but also a place to explore. The QVB is located in the heart of Sydney, surrounded by some of the city’s most famous and popular attractions. Whether you are looking for culture, nature, or entertainment, you will find it near the QVB. Here are some of the nearby attractions that are worth visiting:
Sydney Tower:
Sydney Tower is the tallest building in Sydney and the second tallest observation tower in the Southern Hemisphere. Sydney Tower offers a panoramic view of the city and its landmarks, such as the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and the Darling Harbour. Sydney Tower also offers a range of experiences, such as the Skywalk, the 4D Cinema, and the Skyfeast. Sydney Tower is located on the corner of Pitt Street and Market Street, just a 5-minute walk from the QVB. Sydney Tower is open daily from 9 am to 10 pm, and tickets start from $29 per person. You can book your tickets online or at the Sydney Tower Eye Ticket Desk on level 5 of the Westfield Sydney Shopping Centre.
Hyde Park:
Hyde Park is the oldest public park in Australia and one of the most beautiful and serene places in Sydney. Hyde Park covers 16 hectares of land and features lush gardens, shady trees, and tranquil ponds. Hyde Park also features some of the city’s most iconic monuments, such as the Archibald Fountain, the ANZAC Memorial, and the Sandringham Gardens. Hyde Park is a great place to relax, picnic, or stroll, and enjoy the nature and culture of Sydney. Hyde Park is located on Elizabeth Street, just a 10-minute walk from the QVB. Hyde Park is open 24 hours a day, and admission is free.
St. Andrew’s Cathedral:
St. Andrew’s Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in Australia and one of the most impressive and historic buildings in Sydney. St. Andrew’s Cathedral was built between 1868 and 1874 in the Gothic Revival style, and features a sandstone exterior, a stained glass interior, and a 75-metre spire. St. Andrew’s Cathedral is not only a place of worship, but also a place of art, music, and education. St. Andrew’s Cathedral hosts regular services, concerts, exhibitions, and tours. St. Andrew’s Cathedral is located on George Street, just across the street from the QVB. St. Andrew’s Cathedral is open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
Sydney Town Hall:
Sydney Town Hall is the seat of the city’s government and one of the most grand and ornate buildings in Sydney. Sydney Town Hall was built between 1869 and 1889 in the Second Empire style, and features a marble facade, a clock tower, and a grand organ. Sydney Town Hall is not only a place of administration, but also a place of celebration, ceremony, and performance. Sydney Town Hall hosts various events, such as civic receptions, festivals, concerts, and exhibitions. Sydney Town Hall is located on George Street, next to the QVB. Sydney Town Hall is open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is free, but bookings are required for tours and events.
The QVB is a place where history, culture, and commerce meet. The QVB is a place where you can shop, dine, and explore in one of Sydney’s most historic and iconic buildings. The QVB is a place where you can admire the stunning architecture, discover the fascinating stories, and enjoy the diverse attractions. The QVB is a place where you can experience the best of Sydney in one location. Whether you are a local or a visitor, the QVB is a place that you will love and remember.
So, what are you waiting for? Visit the QVB today and see for yourself why it is one of Sydney’s most beloved landmarks and a must-see for any visitor. Thank you for reading this article and we hope you found it informative and helpful.
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