New owners, local Linda Snook and her business partner John Muller, are excited about their new venture and are looking forward to offering Kempsey low cost short-term accommodation, with 14 rooms available starting at $60 per night.

“We hope to ease some of the accommodation shortages in the area. We are going to make the hotel a bit different with themed rooms like The Big Cat Room, and the Slim Dusty Room, just to make it a more fun and interesting,” Ms Snook said.

There are also plans to set up a boutique cinema room for residents and for functions.

The Railway Hotel will not be operating as a pub but there are plans to hold events and functions in the near future, taking advantage of the large outdoor courtyard with barbecue area and a stage.

Ms Snook hosted the successful showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show in 2015 so no doubt some colourful alternative events will soon be on the hotel’s calendar.

“We have a commercial kitchen and dining area with retro furnishing and will be making that available in the coming months for those who are interested in functions, or maybe hosting their own pop up restaurant. Even art classes. We would love that,” Ms Snook said.

The Railway Hotel is one of Kempsey’s original buildings, being built in 1885 with additions in 1922. At 130 years old, she is full of the charm of yesteryear with modern day convenience. Parking is available behind the hotel.