A two-storey Italianate building of brick construction, it’s sited within the historic commercial district of Annapolis Royal and was constructed in 1884 and within close proximity of the waterfront. by John B. Mills, a Member of Parliament, and it housed the Bank of Nova Scotia and law offices. It was constructed in what was then one of the busiest areas of town, facing the busy railway yards and public wharf, and beside the post office and customs house. Because of the many fires which ravaged the business district of the town, there are few commercial buildings of this age. After the bank moved to larger quarters, the building continued to be used for commercial purposes. The liquor commission operated there from 1930 to 1966 followed by a bakery, a bookstore and a youth hostel. The rejuvenation of the town, beginning in the early 1980s, gave new life to this part of town and to this building which became known as Ye Olde Town Pub.
In 2020 new life was breathed into this building with a significant restoration and renovation project undertaken by The Thistle Hospitality Group. It reopened as The Whiskey Teller.
Pieces of the past were used to redesign this historic property so that you can experience the vibe of the early 1900s that it once offered a century ago. Original brick walls and 18-foot ceilings grace the main sitting room. Rich hardwood floors lead you back to the wood-fire rotisserie, which showcases food at the center of Whiskey Tellers’ open kitchen.
In 2023 the building had a severe fire. Saved by the diligent efforts of numerous local volunteer fire departments, the historic building is still standing and currently undergoing restoration. The business itself, The Whiskey Teller, is temporarily sharing space with Founders House Dining & Drinks at the Fort View Golf Course at 3816 Highway 1, Annapolis Royal.
Photograph by Andrew Tolson.
