The Hill Club, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka - Image 1
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The Hill Club

4.1
·616 reviews·Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings (with dress code)

Experience colonial charm

CrowdMedium
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The Hill Club, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka - Image 1

The Hill Club

Best Time

Evenings (with dress code)

Experience colonial charm

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.1
(616 reviews)

"It's kind of a museum! If you want to have the Victorian period experience....it's the place to be!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Library

The Grand Library

Main Clubhouse

Step back in time in this elegant library, a perfect spot for quiet reflection amidst colonial charm.

Colonial Architecture

Colonial Architecture

Throughout the property

Admire the stunning 19th-century clubhouse architecture, a true testament to British colonial design.

Formal Dining Experience

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Experience Colonial Elegance (and Rules!)

The Hill Club offers a unique glimpse into colonial Sri Lanka. Be aware of the evening dress code for the main dining room and bar; casual options are available, but it's best to check beforehand. Foreigners can book stays, but it's a member's club at heart.

Timing is Key for Comfort

Rooms may lack air conditioning and heating, relying on hot water bottles delivered in the evening. Plan your activities around the cooler parts of the day, especially if visiting during the Nuwara Eliya season.

Best Times

When
Evenings (with dress code)
Why
Experience colonial charm
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime (casual bar)
Why
Relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

නුවරඑළියෙන් එක්කෙනෙක්ට රු.1750 කට ගන්න පුළුවන් විලා එකක්🍃🥰 . . #nuwaraeliya #nuwaraeliyahotels #nuwaraeliyavillas #privatevilla #hotelreview #budgetvilla #hotelstay #foryou #fyp #viral
@happyceylon
12.1K likes • 317.4K views

Dress Code Awareness

Adhere to the evening dress code for the main dining room and bar to fully enjoy the club's ambiance. :dress: Reddit

Hot Water Bottle Comfort

Embrace the charming tradition of hot water bottles delivered to your room for a cozy night's sleep. :bed: Reddit

ලගදි පටන්ගන්න Nuwaraeliya Season එකේ ගිහින් නවතින්න ලස්සන Villa එකක් 😍💖 #nuwaraeliya #villa #hotel #hotels #nuwaraeliyahotels #nuwaraeliyavillas #travel #fyp #foryou #travelwithdaddy
@travelwithdaddy
8K likes • 289.2K views
🔥 19. SEPTEMBAR – VELIKO OTVARANJE 🔥 Prijatelji i drugari, kreće nova ERA u Beču – The Hill Club Vienna! 🎶 Čeka vas luda žurka, nenormalna energija i puno gostiju iznenađenja ⭐️ 👉 Za rezervacije – pišite nam što ranije u DM. Obezbedite svoje mesto na vreme! I da znate: svakog petka i svake subote – uživo muzika, garantovano najbolja u gradu! 🎤🎶 📍 Lokacija: Ottakringer Straße 39, 16. Bezirk, Wi...
romano.roki
2.1K likes • 301.7K views

Explore the Library

Spend some quiet time in the beautiful library, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. :books: Reddit

Staff Stories

Engage with the staff; they have fascinating stories about the club's history. :bustsinsilhouette: Reddit

Un brunch californien à volonté dans une belle ambiance colorée et à proximité de Perrache, ça vous tente ? 🥞 Ça tombe bien, on a ce qu’il vous faut et c’est chez @the_hillclub que ça se passe ! 📍 12 Rue Marc-Antoine Petit - 69002 Lyon #foodetoilyon #foodlyon #lyonfood #lyonresto #restolyon #gouterlyon #onlylyon #igerslyon #lyonmiam #lyon #foodlover #mangerlyon #bonnesadresseslyon #bonplanlyon ...
foodetoi_lyon
725 likes • 47.1K views

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: Reddit

Hot Water Bottle Comfort

Embrace the charming tradition of hot water bottles delivered to your room for a cozy night's sleep. :bed: Reddit

Explore the Library

Spend some quiet time in the beautiful library, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. :books: Reddit

Staff Stories

Engage with the staff; they have fascinating stories about the club's history. :bustsinsilhouette: Reddit

Consider Casual Dining

If formal attire isn't your style, opt for the casual bar for a more relaxed dining experience. :forkandknifewithplate: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(616 reviews)

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

Historic colonial charm
Elegant architecture
Helpful staff

What People Dislike

Slow service
Strict dress code
Dated facilities

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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

Yes, The Hill Club is generally accessible by car, including smaller vehicles. The roads leading to Nuwara Eliya and within the town are manageable. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as it is a popular heritage hotel. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ 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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Absolutely! The colonial architecture, elegant interiors, and surrounding gardens make it a picturesque spot for photography. TikTokInstagram

The atmosphere is generally described as genteel, elegant, and steeped in history, offering a unique Victorian-era experience. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTokReddit

Breakfast is typically included for guests and is often described as nice, though some guests suggest room for improvement in taste. Reddit+1

Yes, vegetarian options are usually available, including Sri Lankan curries. However, be mindful of spice levels if you're sensitive. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The library, the grand staircase, the colonial architecture, and the well-maintained gardens are excellent for photography. Capture the vintage charm! TikTokInstagram

Photography is generally allowed in most areas, especially for guests. However, always be respectful of other guests and the historical nature of the property. TikTok

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Hill Club offers a unique historical experience that can be educational for families. While the formal dining and dress codes might require some adjustment, the spacious rooms and the novelty of the hot water bottles can be fun for children. The gardens offer a pleasant space for a stroll. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers

For those fascinated by colonial history and architecture, The Hill Club is a must-visit. It's described as being like a museum, offering an authentic glimpse into the British era in Sri Lanka. Reddit+1 Engage with the staff, who often share fascinating stories about the club's past, including royal visits and historical anecdotes. Reddit

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. Reddit

🥂 Couples Seeking a Unique Getaway

The Hill Club offers a romantic and unique escape, especially for couples who appreciate history and a touch of old-world charm. The elegant ambiance, the cozy library, and the formal dining experience can create a memorable and sophisticated getaway. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Step Back in Time: The Hill Club Experience

The Hill Club in Nuwara Eliya is more than just a hotel; it's a living museum of Sri Lanka's colonial past. Built in the late 19th century, it retains much of its original grandeur, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience Victorian-era elegance. From the moment you step into the lobby, you're transported to a different time, with its classic architecture, antique furnishings, and formal atmosphere. Reddit+1

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

Navigating The Hill Club's Traditions and Amenities

When staying at The Hill Club, understanding its unique traditions is key to a smooth visit. The evening dress code for the main dining room and bar is a significant aspect. While casual dining is available, many guests opt to dress up to fully immerse themselves in the club's formal atmosphere. This adherence to tradition is part of what makes the experience so distinct. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit