The Hill Club
A genteel 19th-century clubhouse hotel in Nuwara Eliya, offering a unique colonial experience with elegant rooms and historic charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience colonial charm
The Hill Club
Best Time
Experience colonial charm

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A genteel 19th-century clubhouse hotel in Nuwara Eliya, offering a unique colonial experience with elegant rooms and historic charm.
"It's kind of a museum! If you want to have the Victorian period experience....it's the place to be!"
Dress Code Awareness
Adhere to the evening dress code for the main dining room and bar to fully enjoy the club's ambiance. :dress:
Hot Water Bottle Comfort
Embrace the charming tradition of hot water bottles delivered to your room for a cozy night's sleep. :bed:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Library
Main Clubhouse
Step back in time in this elegant library, a perfect spot for quiet reflection amidst colonial charm.
Colonial Architecture
Throughout the property
Admire the stunning 19th-century clubhouse architecture, a true testament to British colonial design.

Formal Dining Experience
Main Dining Room
Enjoy a sophisticated meal in the formal dining room, adhering to the evening dress code for a truly classic experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Experience Colonial Elegance (and Rules!)
Timing is Key for Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Code Awareness
Adhere to the evening dress code for the main dining room and bar to fully enjoy the club's ambiance. :dress:
Hot Water Bottle Comfort
Embrace the charming tradition of hot water bottles delivered to your room for a cozy night's sleep. :bed:
Explore the Library
Spend some quiet time in the beautiful library, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. :books:
Staff Stories
Engage with the staff; they have fascinating stories about the club's history. :bustsinsilhouette:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Code Awareness
Adhere to the evening dress code for the main dining room and bar to fully enjoy the club's ambiance. :dress:
Hot Water Bottle Comfort
Embrace the charming tradition of hot water bottles delivered to your room for a cozy night's sleep. :bed:
Explore the Library
Spend some quiet time in the beautiful library, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. :books:
Staff Stories
Engage with the staff; they have fascinating stories about the club's history. :bustsinsilhouette:
Consider Casual Dining
If formal attire isn't your style, opt for the casual bar for a more relaxed dining experience. :forkandknifewithplate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Hill Club is lauded for its stunning colonial architecture and elegant, historic ambiance, offering a unique step back in time. Guests appreciate the well-mannered staff and the charming tradition of hot water bottles. However, some find the organization lacking, with long waits for food and strict, sometimes inconvenient, dress codes for dining.
"The hotel is a heritage with modern amenities and elegance. Breakfast is nice but there is scope to improve the taste in my opinion.
Stuffs are really well mannered and helpful. They provided hot bag to warm the beds although you will find room heaters. Nice and elegant rooms specially the lobby.
This is a member only club. There are some dress code during evening for dinner and bar. However they also have casual bar which is not restricted. Only foreigners can book the stay.
We really enjoyed our stay and would recommend to stay there and experience the colonial architecture with elegance . :)"
Dipra Paul
"A beautiful place left after Brits..very helpful staff. Hashemi was very helpful and old us super interesting stories abt the place. Royal family visit and nice flower story. The food was good. Prices were surprising good."
Sv Dm
"Interesting experience!
If you want to have the Victorian period experience....it's the place to be!
It's kind of a museum!
No ....it's a museum!
Dinner... dress code is required!
Casual dinner is also possible!
Very pricy!
The hotel room is generous....of course Victorian style with a modern bathroom!
Highlight.....you get a hotwaterbottle and chocolate before you go to bed!
PERFECT, haha!"
jo ue
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hill Club is located in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka. If you're driving, it's accessible by car, and many visitors arrive as part of tours. Public transport options to Nuwara Eliya are available, from where you can take a short taxi ride to the club.
While The Hill Club itself isn't directly on a major public transport route, Nuwara Eliya town is well-connected by bus and train. From the town center, a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride will get you to the club.
Yes, The Hill Club is generally accessible by car, including smaller vehicles. The roads leading to Nuwara Eliya and within the town are manageable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Hill Club is primarily a member's club, but foreigners can book stays. There are also dining and bar areas that may be accessible to non-members, though specific rules and dress codes apply, especially in the evenings.
There is a formal dress code for the main dining room and bar during the evenings. Casual attire is permitted in a separate casual bar. It's advisable to check their specific requirements before your visit.
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as it is a popular heritage hotel.
While staying guests have full access, non-guests might be able to access certain areas like the casual bar or dining. It's best to inquire directly with the club about access for non-residents and any associated fees.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Hill Club is a historic 19th-century clubhouse built during the British colonial era, offering a unique glimpse into that period with its architecture and ambiance.
Rooms are typically spacious and Victorian-style, often featuring modern bathrooms. Some rooms may not have air conditioning or heating, but hot water bottles are provided in the evenings.
The club boasts a beautiful library, formal and casual bars, and dining areas. While some reviews mention tennis courts, they may be in disrepair. There is no pool.
Absolutely! The colonial architecture, elegant interiors, and surrounding gardens make it a picturesque spot for photography.
The atmosphere is generally described as genteel, elegant, and steeped in history, offering a unique Victorian-era experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Hill Club offers both formal dining with a colonial-inspired menu and a more casual bar menu. Some reviews mention Sri Lankan curries and international dishes.
Breakfast is typically included for guests and is often described as nice, though some guests suggest room for improvement in taste.
Yes, vegetarian options are usually available, including Sri Lankan curries. However, be mindful of spice levels if you're sensitive.
Dining hours can vary, especially between the formal dining room and the casual bar. It's best to confirm the current operating hours with the hotel upon arrival.
Yes, there are other food options available in Nuwara Eliya town, which is a short walk from The Hill Club, offering a wider variety of cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
The library, the grand staircase, the colonial architecture, and the well-maintained gardens are excellent for photography. Capture the vintage charm!
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, especially for guests. However, always be respectful of other guests and the historical nature of the property.
While not explicitly stated, it's always good practice to be discreet and avoid intrusive photography, especially in private dining areas or during formal events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when the atmosphere is more relaxed. The library can be a quiet retreat, and the overall ambiance provides a different kind of travel experience. However, if your family prefers modern amenities and a more casual environment, other options in Nuwara Eliya might be more suitable.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
Immerse yourself in the Victorian-style rooms, the elegant library, and the overall ambiance that has been preserved over the decades. The adherence to traditions like the dress code further enhances the feeling of stepping back in time. It's an experience that goes beyond a typical hotel stay, offering a deep dive into a specific historical period.
🥂 Couples Seeking a Unique Getaway
Enjoy the novelty of the hot water bottles delivered to your room for a cozy evening. The beautiful gardens also provide a lovely setting for a romantic stroll. It's a perfect destination for couples looking for something different from the usual resort experience, offering a blend of history, elegance, and tranquility.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Step Back in Time: The Hill Club Experience
Visitors often highlight the library as a must-see, a tranquil space perfect for reading or simply soaking in the ambiance. The colonial architecture throughout the property is a major draw, with its intricate details and stately presence. While the hotel offers modern amenities, it carefully preserves its historical character, making it a distinctive choice for travelers seeking an authentic heritage experience.
It's important to note that The Hill Club operates with certain traditions, including a dress code for evening dining and bar access. While this might seem strict to some, it contributes to the overall authentic experience. For those who appreciate history and a touch of old-world charm, The Hill Club provides an unforgettable stay.
Navigating The Hill Club's Traditions and Amenities
Room amenities are designed to complement the historical setting. While you might not find modern conveniences like air conditioning in every room, the thoughtful provision of hot water bottles delivered nightly adds a charming and practical touch, ensuring comfort during cooler evenings. This attention to detail reflects the club's commitment to a classic guest experience.
Beyond the rooms, the club offers spaces like the library and various bars, each contributing to the overall ambiance. While some facilities like tennis courts may be less maintained, the core experience of stepping into a bygone era remains strong. It's a place where history is not just preserved but actively lived.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit