
Crystalbrook Albion – Full Review of this Dog Friendly Boutique Hotel in Surry Hills
Heritage hotel vibes, boutique design, and a warm welcome for pups in Sydney’s coolest dog friendly neighbourhood.
Once a convent, now a boutique retreat, Crystalbrook Albion captures Surry Hills’ character with heritage bones and playful modern design. The building’s history adds depth to a stay that feels both stylish and grounded, with eclectic touches around every corner. Step outside and you’re right in the heart of one of Sydney’s most dog friendly neighbourhoods – leafy streets lined with terrace houses, cafés buzzing with locals and pocket parks perfect for morning walks. It’s this rare mix of heritage, design and lifestyle that makes Albion stand out as a dog friendly city escape that both you and your pup will love.
Albion’s charm is best felt in motion – here’s a pup’s eye view of what it’s like arriving at this boutique Surry Hills stay.
Dog Friendly Features at Crystalbrook Albion
Pet Fee
A flat $130 per stay covers your pup’s bed, bowls and other thoughtful pet perks.
Pet Rooms
Ground-floor Urban rooms are reserved for guests with pets, with hardwood floors and direct outdoor access that make morning walks and late-night bathroom breaks simple.
Price
$$$ – Premium tier. Boutique pricing that sits below Sydney’s big-name five-stars but above standard boutique stays.
Pet Policy
Both dogs and cats are welcome, though only select rooms are pet-friendly – best to call ahead before booking.
Welcome Amenities
Each furry guest receives a plush bed, food and water bowls and a little welcome treat, so settling in feels effortless.
Green Spaces Nearby
Within minutes you’ll find Harmony Park, Frog Hollow Reserve and Prince Alfred Park for daily strolls, with Centennial Park close by when you’re craving wide-open, off-leash space.
Staff Friendliness
The Albion team goes out of their way to welcome pets – setting up amenities before arrival and happily pointing you towards the best local walks and cafés.
Our Take
Crystalbrook Albion combines heritage charm with boutique flair in Surry Hills’ most dog friendly neighbourhood. The dedicated pet rooms and thoughtful amenities show they’ve really considered what travelling with a dog (or cat) feels like and it makes the whole experience seamless.
Why We Recommend Crystalbrook Albion
For dog owners who want more than just a hotel, Crystalbrook Albion offers an experience rooted in character and community. The heritage building, reimagined with bold boutique design, feels intimate and personal — a rare find in Sydney’s hotel scene. Add in pet-friendly Urban rooms with direct outdoor access, thoughtful amenities, and a neighbourhood that’s as welcoming to pups as it is to people, and you’ve got one of the city’s most effortless stays. For travellers looking to blend Surry Hills culture with a dog friendly escape, Albion hits the sweet spot.
Neighbourhood Highlights
Where to Play
Dog-Friendly Parks
- Harmony Park – A lively Surry Hills favourite with an off-leash zone where local dogs gather daily.
- Frog Hollow Reserve – A tucked-away pocket park that’s ideal for quick exercise breaks.
- Prince Alfred Park – Larger grounds with shaded walking paths, open lawns, and a designated off-leash area.
- Centennial Park – A short drive away, this iconic Sydney park has vast off-leash spaces and plenty of trails for adventurous pups.
Where to Eat & Drink
Dog-Friendly Cafes
- Four Ate Five (Crown Street) – A buzzing local café with pet-friendly outdoor seating.
- Sticky Fingers – Casual spot known for great coffee, friendly staff, and space for pups outside.
- Lil Miss Piggy (Crown Street) – Cosy café with outdoor tables, perfect for brunching with your dog.
Dog-Friendly Pubs
- The Carrington (Surry Hills) – An icon of dog friendly Sydney, welcoming pups both inside and out, with its own dog menu.
- The Clock Hotel (Crown Street) – A heritage pub with a leafy terrace, courtyard, and street seating where dogs are part of the vibe.
- Forrester’s (Surry Hills) – A local institution that hosts Yappy Hour and even features a “Dog Wall of Fame” for its four-legged regulars.
👉 See more in our Sydney dog-friendly pubs guide and cafés guide
Gallery


Before You Book
- Address: 21 Little Albion Street, Surry Hills, Sydney NSW
- Parking: Limited secure parking available on-site (pre-booking required); additional paid parking stations nearby.
- Transport: Central Station is a 10-minute walk, with buses and light rail close by for easy city connections.
👉 Confirm details when booking, as availability and policies may change.
Community
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