The solid sandstone building at 100 George Street in the Rocks was built as a mariners' church more than 100 years ago. A place where all the sins of the sea could be confessed before starting the next voyage back into perilous waters. These days the original façade is still there, although the Sunday service now comes with drinks instead of sermons.
The Rawson is a gigantic space with soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and arches cut into the sandstone. The 15-metre-long brass bar stretches along the back wall. Spread across four levels, the bar houses the the Governor’s Room, a private terrace, the Appetito Italian Restaurant as well as the aptly titled Chapel lounge area.