Sydney pub trailblazer Margaret Hargreaves dies

Margaret Hargreaves, who is being remembered as an example of a generation of strong women and a trailblazer of Sydney’s pub scene, has died.

Margaret Hargreaves operated two pubs in Surry Hills, including the Shakespeare Hotel (pictured which she ran for nearly 50 years.

Margaret Hargreaves, the long-serving owner of one of Sydney’s most iconic pubs, the Shakespeare Hotel in Surry Hills, has died.

For nearly 50 years, Mrs Hargreaves ran the beloved inner-city venue affectionately known as “the Shakey,” becoming a pioneering figure in Sydney’s hospitality industry and a role model for generations of publicans.

She began her career in 1975 when she took on the lease of the Devonshire Street pub, later acquiring the freehold in 1978.

With four young children in tow, she moved her family into the hotel for three months to dedicate herself to the thriving new business.

After decades of running the popular establishment, she made the decision to sell the Shakespeare Hotel in 2024.

The Australian Hotels Association (NSW) paid tribute to the legacy of Margaret Hargreaves.

The Australian Hotels Association (NSW) paid tribute to her legacy, describing her as a force in the industry and a leader through some of its most challenging periods.

“Margaret was a classic example of a generation of strong women, who not only broke down barriers in the 70s but led the way by becoming one of the inner city’s top pub owners,” AHA NSW director of liquor and policing John Green said.

“She was a trailblazer with her own unique style and her passing is a loss for the industry.

“Operating two pubs in Surry Hills, the Shakespeare Hotel from 1975 until recently, as well as the Strawberry Hills Hotel, Margaret and her family — including daughter Kelly — led the way with their resilience and determination during challenging times including COVID and the light rail construction, which caused massive disruption to the business.”

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Originally published as Sydney pub trailblazer Margaret Hargreaves dies