Rooty Hill, Heritage site in Sydney, Australia
Rooty Hill is a heritage-listed site in western Sydney containing multiple historic buildings and structures. The Imperial Hotel and Watts Cottage display Italianate architectural styles, while the Pioneer Memorial Church and other structures define the local streetscape.
Rooty Hill received its name in 1802 when Governor Philip Gidley King noted the soil's similarity to Norfolk Island's root-filled ground. The area developed as a local center through the construction of major buildings like the Imperial Hotel in 1890 and the Pioneer Memorial Church in 1891.
The Pioneer Memorial Church, built in 1891, continues to serve as a center for worship and community gatherings today. The building shapes how the area looks and reflects the importance of faith and local life in Rooty Hill.
The site lies about 42 kilometers west of Sydney's business district and is accessible through major roads and public transportation. Walking through the different buildings and taking time to observe the architectural details and layout of the structures works best for a visit.
The Imperial Hotel was built in 1890 and originally served as a gathering place for visitors to the local greyhound racing tracks in the area. The building has kept its importance and heritage listing as evidence of this distinctive local history.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.