The Russel Hotel boasts a rich history steeped in Sydney’s colonial past. It stands on the very ground where the first hospital in Australia once provided care to hundreds of convicts, including those from the notorious second fleet in 1788. Despite its noble beginnings, the hospital’s halls witnessed much suffering and death.

Over time, the site evolved into a sailor’s hostel, rumored to have hosted more illicit activities (brothel). Today, the Russel Hotel is a renowned boutique establishment in Sydney’s heart, but its past holds darker secrets. Stories of murders, including that of a sailor slain by a prostitute in room number 8, linger within its walls.

Reynolds Cottages are said to be haunted by the son of ex-convict William Reynolds, who died a painful death. In 1838 he was accidentally shot in the leg while pigeon-shooting in Surry Hills. The wound was so bad that his leg had to be amputated inside the house. Unsurprisingly, William died from his injury soon afterwards.  
 The ghost of Reynolds Snr. may also linger among the laneways, as he too died tragically in the house just a few years later, falling from a ladder and hitting his head on the pavement.