| Annapolis Royal, NS B0S 1A0 | | | MLS #®202529385 |
9 Church St
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Step back in time and into your future
9 Church Street: a beloved gathering place in Annapolis Royal, the town’s one and only pub has long stood as a local landmark—its story woven into the very fabric of the historic district it calls home.
Raised in 1884 by Member of Parliament John B. Mills, the building began its life as the Bank of Nova Scotia, set proudly along the bustling commercial corridor.
The railway and dockyards nearby, and the post office & customs house close too, this corner thrived with foot traffic as residents visited the bank beneath its soaring ceilings.
As the years unfolded, the building adapted to the needs of a growing community.
The heart of heritage
After the bank moved to a larger location in 1930, the liquor commission took its place, receiving barrels of spirits from ships arriving at the docks—whiskey among the most anticipated.
When the commission eventually relocated in 1966, a local family opened a bakery, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
New life, new purpose
From there, the building transitioned through various commercial uses, including a bookstore and a youth hostel, each adding its own layer to the story.
Despite numerous fires that swept through Annapolis Royal’s business district in the early 1900s, this structure remained—one of the few surviving buildings of its era. Recognizing its architectural and cultural significance, the town designated it a heritage property in 1982 as renewed energy and revitalization took hold.
Soon after, the building welcomed its first free house: Ye Ole Town Pub. For nearly 40 years, patrons filled the rooms with laughter, conversation, and community spirit, each generation of owners leaving an indelible mark on the establishment.
Today, this legacy carries forward. The building’s historic character has been restored. Step inside to find original brick walls revealed once more, 18-foot ceilings soaring above the main sitting room, and rich hardwood floors guiding you toward the hum of conversation.
The timeless charm continues upstairs. In the early 1900s, guests accessed this space through a secret doorway, adding a hint of clandestine intrigue. Modern code prevents the replication of the hidden entry, but the speakeasy-inspired ambiance remains.
Nostalgia but make it modern
Throughout the redesign, the building’s past has been honoured. History is preserved and celebrated—where the stories of previous eras continue to shape the memories being made today.
Yet behind its storied walls, the building functions with modern comfort and ease, updated systems and contemporary conveniences, that quietly support today’s guests and gatherings.
In 2024, the building underwent a thoughtfully executed interior transformation, upgrading every major system—electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and life safety—to meet today’s fire and building standards. The renovation preserved the soul of this heritage landmark while ensuring long-term performance, efficiency, and peace of mind for its next chapter.
Today, the restaurant stands as a beloved premium-casual destination, celebrated for its strong regional brand presence and loyal following both in person and online.
At its heart is the signature wood-fire rotisserie and open-concept kitchen, where locally inspired dishes are crafted in full view of guests. With seating for 75 indoors and an additional 70 patio seats in the summer months, the space is perfectly positioned to welcome peak tourism traffic and the vibrant energy that comes with it.
Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Not intended to solicit sellers or buyers under written contract with another REALTOR®.
Kevin Scott
Founder, CEO, REALTOR®
Royal LePage Atlantic
Independently owned and operated.
Independently owned and operated.
Kyle Ellis
REALTOR®
Royal LePage Atlantic
Independently owned and operated.
Independently owned and operated.
13061 Highway 1, Hantsport, NS B0P 1P0