Penang has long been one of Malaysia’s most popular destinations for a short getaway, combining George Town’s UNESCO-listed heritage, legendary street food, beaches and a fascinating mix of cultures. Now, travelers have even more accommodation options to choose from as The Ascott Limited expands its Penang portfolio with new hotels and hospitality concepts.
Two of the newest additions are particularly interesting: 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang by The Unlimited Collection and HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang. Together, they offer very different ways to experience the island, from a heritage-inspired George Town stay to a modern hotel designed for families, business travelers and larger events.
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Ascott is currently promoting its Summer Holiday with Ascott Malaysia offer, making this an interesting opportunity for travelers planning a Penang getaway.
1926 Heritage Hotel Penang: A New Chapter for a Historic Property
For travelers who want to combine a Penang holiday with the island’s heritage, 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang by The Unlimited Collection is perhaps the more distinctive of the two new additions.
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The hotel takes its name from the year associated with the historic property and has been restored for its 2026 centenary. It is located at 227 Jalan Burma in George Town, putting guests within easy reach of the city’s heritage attractions, museums, markets, restaurants and traditional kopitiams.
Rather than creating an entirely new hotel from scratch, Ascott has brought a historic Penang property into a new era while retaining its heritage character.
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The hotel has 78 rooms, with accommodation including Heritage Rooms, Colonial Rooms, Heritage Garden Patios and several suite categories. The rooms combine traditional character with contemporary conveniences such as high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, coffee and tea facilities, premium toiletries and comfortable bedding.
Facilities at 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang
The hotel offers considerably more than a heritage façade.
Guests have access to:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Gymnasium
- Spa and wellness centre
- Restaurant
- Bar and lounge
- Bistro
- 24-hour reception
- On-site parking
- Daily housekeeping
- Meeting room and function facilities
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- EV charging station
The property is also certified for sustainable operations, reflecting efforts relating to cultural heritage, local communities and environmental responsibility.
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One of its more interesting dining options is Root House by Gēn, where the concept focuses on food, heritage and the evolution of cuisine.
A Convenient Base for Exploring George Town
Location is one of the hotel’s biggest advantages.
From Jalan Burma, guests can explore George Town’s heritage buildings, museums, markets and food scene while also having access to modern shopping and entertainment facilities.
For visitors who want to spend their holiday walking through George Town, sampling Penang’s famous food and discovering its historic neighbourhoods, 1926 Heritage Hotel provides a convenient base.
Also read: From Hawker Lane to Heritage Mansion in Penang
HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang
The second major new addition takes on a slightly different approach.
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HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang is designed as a contemporary full-service hotel with an emphasis on leisure, families, business travel and events.
The hotel offers 284 rooms and suites, including standard HARRIS Rooms as well as larger suites and a Family Suite with two bedrooms and a dedicated children’s corner. Rooms include high-speed Wi-Fi, smart TVs, rain showers and eco-friendly bathroom amenities.
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This makes the property particularly interesting for families looking for a modern Penang hotel with more space and facilities.
Swimming Pool and Fitness Facilities
Guests can make use of the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool, while the 24-hour gym provides a convenient option for travelers who want to maintain their exercise routine during their stay.
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The hotel also incorporates activities intended to encourage guests to socialize, including sunrise yoga and evening craft classes.
For a family holiday, these kinds of activities can provide an alternative to spending the entire day sightseeing.
Dining at HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang
The hotel has an all-day dining restaurant serving local specialties alongside international dishes.
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There is also The Hub, providing a more casual option for quick food and refreshments.
This gives guests the flexibility to enjoy Malaysian food during their stay while still having familiar international options available.
A Major Hotel for Meetings and Events
One of the features that sets HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang apart is its extensive event space.
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The property has a ballroom measuring more than 17,000 square feet, together with a pre-function foyer and additional meeting rooms.
This makes the hotel relevant not only to leisure travelers but also to companies, conferences, weddings and other large events.
For business travelers, having accommodation, meeting facilities, dining and leisure amenities in the same property can be particularly convenient.
Close to Kek Lok Si Temple
Another attraction of staying at HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang is its location near Kek Lok Si Temple, one of Penang’s most famous landmarks and one of the largest Buddhist temple complexes in Southeast Asia. Set on the slopes of Air Itam, the spectacular complex is known for its ornate architecture, colourful pagodas, statues and panoramic views across Penang.
For visitors staying at HARRIS, Kek Lok Si makes an easy addition to a sightseeing itinerary. Guests can combine a visit to the temple with a trip to Air Itam’s famous food spots and then return to the comfort of the hotel. The location therefore makes HARRIS particularly appealing to travelers who want to combine modern hotel facilities with easy access to one of Penang’s most important cultural and tourist attractions.
Ascott’s Growing Penang Portfolio
The two new hotels are part of Ascott’s rapidly expanding presence in Penang, reflecting the company’s growing commitment to the island’s hospitality market.
With more to come, the company’s Penang portfolio currently includes:
- Ascott Gurney Penang
- Citadines Tanjung Tokong Penang
- Citadines Connect George Town
- lyf Georgetown Penang
- The George Penang by The Crest Collection
Hotel Deal
Summer Holiday with Ascott Malaysia
Enjoy up to 40% off your next stay and start planning your next escape with Ascott Malaysia. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick city break, a relaxing urban retreat, or just some time away from the everyday, this limited-time offer unlocks exclusive savings and a wide range of destinations across Malaysia. From vibrant city vibes in Kuala Lumpur to charming cultural stays in Penang and beyond, there’s something for every kind of trip.
Book your stay between 1 July and 30 September 2026, for stays until 30 November 2026. Don’t miss out! Lock in your plans early and get ready for your next adventure.
Sign-up for Ascott Star Rewards membership to enjoy special perks and benefits.
Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) Members enjoy 10% off on all food & beverage items when you dine in.
Book here
All photos courtesy of Ascott Hotels.
