Statesman Hotel

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon the Statesman Hotel during a quick work trip to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be one of those unassuming spots that just works. It’s tucked away on the corner of Strangway and Theodore Street in Curtin – that’s that leafy suburb south of the city center, about a 10-minute drive from Lake Burley Griffin if you’re into those morning walks along the water. I mean, Canberra’s not exactly buzzing like Sydney, but this location feels just right if you want to avoid the tourist crush around Parliament House. Pulling up, the place has this mid-century vibe with its low-slung brick facade and those big windows letting in the crisp afternoon light – nothing flashy, but it screams practical Aussie hospitality. Check-in was a breeze; the front desk lady (I think her name was Karen) chatted about the best route to avoid rush hour on Adelaide Avenue, which saved me a headache getting to a meeting in Civic. Oh, and parking? Plenty of free spots out front, though it can get snug on weekends when locals pop in for the attached bistro – yeah, it’s got that too, serving up decent pub grub like steak sandwiches that smell amazing wafting through the lobby.

What really sold me on the Statesman, though, was how it nails that balance of comfort without trying too hard. My room was on the second floor, overlooking a quiet patch of gum trees – you wake up to the chatter of magpies instead of traffic noise, which is a godsend in a city that’s otherwise pretty hushed. The bed was firm but cozy, with those thick cotton sheets that don’t feel like they’ve been through a thousand washes, and the bathroom had a rain shower that actually had decent pressure (unlike some budget spots I’ve endured). It’s rated 3.5 stars, and yeah, it shows in little ways – the decor’s a bit dated, with those floral curtains that scream ’90s, and the Wi-Fi can lag during peak evening hours when everyone’s streaming. But honestly, for the price, it’s solid; I got a king room for under $150 a night, and it included a basic brekkie buffet downstairs with fresh fruit and decent coffee – none of that instant stuff. If you’re into exploring, it’s a stone’s throw from Woden Plaza for shopping or grabbing supplies, and I even hiked up to Red Hill lookout one afternoon, which is just a short drive away. Well, sort of – traffic can build up around Canberra Hospital nearby during shift changes, so plan accordingly if you’re heading out early.

All in all, if you’re visiting Canberra for a low-key getaway or business without the frills of those fancy spots in Braddon, the Statesman is a smart pick. It’s got that authentic, no-nonsense feel that reminds you why people love Australia’s quieter corners – think relaxed evenings on the balcony with a cold beer, watching the sunset over the Brindabellas in the distance. Sure, it’s not perfect (the air con hummed a tad loudly at night), but with an 8.2 rating from folks who’ve stayed, it punches above its weight. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in autumn when the leaves turn and the place feels even cozier. If that’s your vibe, book it – you won’t regret it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $96. Upper House Queen Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $102. Lower House Queen Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $102. Queen Room with Balcony with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $129. Queen Sofa with Balcony Room with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 3
• Estimated price from: $142. Queen Studio with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 3
• Estimated price from: $161. Cabinet Queen and Sofa with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 3
• Estimated price from: $188. Standard Queen Room with Two Queen Beds with 2 large double beds for Max persons: 4
• Estimated price from: $207. Cabinet Queen Twin and Sofa with 2 double beds and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 5

Reviews

• A great spot to stay in Canberra – Paul from Australia – 12 July 2025 (8/10)

  Great location adjacent to local Curtin shopping centre.
  Clean, well designed and comfortable room.

• Excellent value for money – Ehsan from Australia – 7 July 2025 (9/10)

  Comfortable and decent facilities

• Clean comfortable accommodation self checkin, abundance of parking – Natalie from Australia – 6 July 2025 (8/10)

  Comfortable , clean room,keyless access, plenty of parking .location close to supermarket and several eateries on south side of Canberra
  
  What could be improved: Having to lug suitcases upstairs. No lifts .There is a ramp to first floor but not to second and there is no link between ramp and stairs to second floor . Bar/restaurant area cold. Basic uninteresting menu

• Very good – William from Australia – 29 June 2025 (8/10)

  The Statesman has an onsite bistro and undercover parking.
  
  What could be improved: There are no breakfast bowls or cutlery, which would be handy as we always bring our own breakfast. The bedside lighting is almost useless for reading.

• Suits our needs perfectly – Sharon from Australia – 27 June 2025 (9/10)

  Another great stay at the Statesman, our third in the last five weeks. Great location, comfortable bed and a really good shower. Room was very clean & warm, a must for a cold Canberra winter. The Statesman suits our needs perfectly when visiting family in Canberra.

• I only wanted to stay, closer to the Embassies where my business was conducted the next day. – Judith from Australia – 27 June 2025 (7/10)

  the room is clean
  
  What could be improved: the room is comfortable enough.

• Very comfortable Queen room. Reverse cycle kept the room warm at night. – Jennifer from Australia – 22 June 2025 (8/10)

  Bed extremely comfortable, bathroom very big, great shower with lots of hot water! I knew there was no food preparation area but as the rooms are above Bistro with great food, and Reception had another coffee/toasted sandwich brekky area, covered all bases. No noise from Hotel area. Reception staff were extremely considerate when I needed to extend my original booking by a few days at a time, due to hospital visitation.
  
  What could be improved: Cold draught under the door but I could block it off with bath mat at night. There was a bit of noise from early morning delivery vans, but not a 'deal breaker'.

• Perfect for an economical, comfortable business stay – Marchbank from Australia – 22 June 2025 (8/10)

  Well-located, comfortable accommodation to use as a base in attending meetings and a conference. Bonus to have dining on site, so you don't have to brave the 'best' of a Canberra winter. Room comfortable and quiet.
  
  What could be improved: Possibly lifts to access the second floor more easily with luggage

• Always love staying here. – Anne from Australia – 19 June 2025 (9/10)

  Quiet and great location. Very clean.
  
  What could be improved: The pillows were not comfortable, both ended up with neck aches. Need more choice thickness.

• comfortable and clean – Vicky from Greece – 10 June 2025 (9/10)

  clean room

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities