Guelph heritage site to fully reopen after four years of restoration

The Albion is set to reopen in March 2025. (Submitted/The Albion)

Guelph heritage site, The Albion, is set for a grand re-opening after four years of extensive restoration.

The Albion is known as a staple in Guelph after being around for over a century. Originally, it was known as The Albion Hotel. The hotel portion closed in 1977.

The main floor initially closed in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The second floor remained open for special events.

“Between shutdowns, renovation materials rising in price, permit sequencing, start and stop businesses potentially renting the floor and what seems like an endless series of roadblocks, I’m just about ready to collapse when the first proper keg gets tapped,” said owner and restorer Tommy Gofton in a release.

The grand reopening is scheduled for St. Patrick’s Day weekend on March 14 to 17.

In part, the release states that The Albion is set to provide a “unique to Guelph dining and drinking experience,” among different activities like comedy nights, karaoke, drag shows, salsa dancing and concerts.

“The vibe of each floor changes dramatically, pending what program we’re running,” said manager Aaron Soch.

When The Albion fully reopens, the first floor will be ready for weekend service, with future plans to quickly open on weekdays. Future phases will include opening patios, adding lunch and coffee services and introducing a weekend brunch program.

“There are so many incredible people that worked endlessly to get this place to finally open. I’ll be repaying for a long time,” said Gofton.