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16 Best Country Pubs in Australia
NEW SOUTH WALES
Mount Warning Hotel, Uki
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A classic pub in the stunning foothills of Mount Warning – this pub is where you go for high-quality meals, friendly staff and an authentic Aussie country feel. The pub was tragically burnt to the ground in a fire in 2013, but it rose from the ashes in 2015. Locals raved about the new modern design that still retained the charm of the classic, no-frills pub they knew and loved. Call in here to reward yourself after climbing the incredible Mount Warning, and have the best sleep of your life nursing your tired muscles and full belly at Murwillumbah YHA.
Where to stay? A 15-minute drive away at Murwillumbah YHA.
Old City Bank Brasserie, Katoomba
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Just two hours out of Sydney, yet worlds away, the Blue Mountains is a must-do. One of the area’s favourite watering holes, Old City Bank Brasserie, is rich in history – originally opening as a bank in 1912. Offering high quality and innovative pub food at a low price, this venue is always rocking with locals and visitors alike, providing an uplifting and friendly atmosphere. On a Friday and Saturday evening, you’ll also get to enjoy live music. For a relaxed dining experience where you’re guaranteed value for money, make sure to stop off for a feed at Old City Bank Brasserie, as you explore everything the Blue Mountains has to offer.
Where to stay? A 10-minute stroll away at Blue Mountains YHA.
QUEENSLAND
The Criterion Hotel, Rockhampton
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When you visit The Criterion Hotel in Rockhampton, you’ll be re-tracing the steps of the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, the English cricket team and Rod Laver. This heritage-listed spot is worth a visit just for its history – in addition to its dazzling past visitors, during WWII, it was headquarters for General Eichelberger of the US Army. It’s been family-run for four generations, so everything about this spot oozes charm and a homey, welcoming feel. The menu is diverse - whether you’re feeling like a classic pub feed or something a little more eclectic, you’re guaranteed to find something delicious to fill your belly at a low price. You can’t pass through Rockhampton without checking out "The Cri" – experience the unique atmosphere and history for yourself and thank us later.
Where to stay? A five-minute drive or 20-minute walk away at Rockhampton YHA.
The Court House Hotel, Port Douglas
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Running since 1878, “The Courty” is the oldest pub in Port Douglas and one of the most iconic pubs in Australia. Boasting an extensive and affordable menu utilising fresh local ingredients, you can’t leave Port Douglas without enjoying a meal in this gorgeous spot. You can devour some no-nonsense pub grub along with a few cosmopolitan touches, such as a delicious cocktail menu, boutique craft beers and a trendy rooftop bar to watch the sunset from. Soak up the friendly atmosphere with a mix of locals and travellers, while enjoying live music and the tropical setting amongst the palm trees.
Where to stay? A five-minute drive or 20-minute walk away at Port Douglas YHA.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Settler's Tavern, Margaret River
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Much-loved and known by locals as “The Tav,” Settlers Tavern is an embodiment of the unique spirit of stunning Margaret River. Famous for its live music, many huge Australian artists have graced its hallowed halls, from Peter Garrett to Birds of Tokyo. The Tav is also known for encouraging local talent, regularly holding open mic sessions. The best part about this spot? There is an all-day menu from 11.30am-9pm, ensuring you can get a hearty pub feed at any time of the afternoon. As an icon of the area, The Tav is involved in many community fundraising projects, from supporting the homeless to wildlife protection. Grab a meal here knowing that your dollars will be in good hands.
Where to stay? A five-minute walk away at Margaret River YHA.
Diver's Tavern, Broome
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Just over the road from magnificent Cable Beach, Diver’s Tavern is a must-do when visiting the breathtaking town of Broome. The bistro showcases the exquisite seafood of the region, juicy steaks and their signature dish – ribs. However, Diver’s also caters for gluten-free and vegetarian diners. As well as offering quality affordable food, this pub oozes local character – it is a popular venue for Crazy Crab Races, a sacred art in Broome that involves people collecting hermit crabs from the beach, placing their bets and racing them!
Where to stay? A seven-minute drive away at Broome YHA.
Palace Hotel, Kalgoorlie
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You wouldn’t expect a pub in outback Western Australia to once have been the favourite hangout of a US President, but the Palace Hotel isn’t like most pubs! In its early days, Herbert Hoover spent most of his time here as a 22-year-old US mining engineer working in the gold fields. Legend is, he fell in love with a barmaid at the Hotel and wrote her a poem. An except of this poem can be found next to the elaborate carved mirror in the foyer, which he left as a parting gift to the hotel. The Hoover’s Bar and Bistro bears his name, as well as a delectable array of dishes guaranteed to tickle your fancies. You visited Kalgoorlie because you’re a history buff – so Palace Hotel should definitely be at the top of your bucket list.
Where to stay? A five-minute drive or 15-minute stroll away at Kalgoorlie YHA.
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Daly Waters Historic Pub, Daly Waters
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You wanted to experience the true Australian outback, well here it is. One of Australia’s most famous pubs, Daly Waters Historic Pub is famous for its interesting choice in décor. As part of a decades-old tradition, there are countless bras (yes, bras) strung up inside the pub! However, it’s not just lingerie people leave behind – the walls are covered with treasures left by people all over the world. The oldest pub in the Northern Territory, this pub has provided a meal for weary travellers since 1930. Sample outback tucker such as crocodile and kangaroo, but if you’re not up to it, there’s plenty of pub classics as well. Go on – treat yourself to a cold beer, and leave behind your mark as many others have done before you. You’re in the middle of the Aussie outback, after all.
Taking the Explorer's Way route between Adelaide Central YHA and Darwin YHA? Check out the pub on the way!
Uncle's Tavern, Alice Springs
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Right in the centre of Alice Springs you’ll find this long-loved venue, designed to help you relax and unwind after a long day exploring the area. Enjoy live music, play pool, watch Aussie and international sport, belt out a tune at karaoke, or score a bargain at $10 burger and $12 schnitzel night. The crowning attraction of Uncle’s Tavern is Musical Bingo, every Tuesday night from 7pm. Enjoy icy cold beers and wash it down with delicious and varied pub food – while soaking up the friendly, laid-back atmosphere. When it’s this close to your bed at Alice Springs YHA, you can go all out knowing a good night’s sleep is only a short walk away.
Where to stay? A five-minute walk away at Alice Springs YHA.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Beer Garden Brewing, Port Lincoln
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Fantastic food and beer right next to your accommodation, what more could a backpacker ask for? Port Lincoln is the ultimate adventure-seeking town, but when it’s time to settle down and enjoy some nourishment, Beer Garden Brewing is the place to be. Order a delicious pizza made from only the freshest local produce, washed down with tasty beer brewed right on site. Take it in all from the massive Beer Garden overlooking the brewery, which often plays host to a range of local events. When we say it’s right next to Port Lincoln YHA, we mean it. It would almost be rude not to enjoy a beer and bar snack here, and take away a six-pack for the road.
Where to stay? Next door at Port Lincoln YHA!
Hotel Elliot, Port Elliot
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Indoor and outdoor dining, a pool table and entertainment every weekend – the award-winning Hotel Elliot is a must-do when in the gorgeous seaside town of Port Elliot. You’re guaranteed to find something to tickle your fancy on the extensive lunch and dinner menu, from fresh seafood to hearty pastas. Enjoy Thirsty Thursdays - $5 pints of beer and cider between 5-6pm. You’ll be a famished after a long day swimming and exploring Port Elliot, and Hotel Elliot is the perfect spot to unwind. Once fed and watered, it’s a short stroll to Port Elliot YHA, where you can rest your weary bones ahead of another fantastic day on the Fleurieu Peninsula.
Where to stay? A four-minute walk away at Port Elliot YHA.
VICTORIA
The Victoria Hotel, Port Fairy
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Port Fairy is a gorgeous seaside town, and The Victoria Hotel embodies all its country charm. “The Vic” boasts high quality pub food, friendly service and a buzzing atmosphere every day of the week. Try the famous salt and pepper squid, as well of plenty of choices for you gluten-free folk. There’s also a vegetable bar, allowing you to add as much rabbitty goodness to your hearty meal as you like. A no-frills pub, you can always rely on The Vic to scratch your pub food itch after a long day breathing the ocean air. When you’re done, take a short stroll back to your comfy bed at Port Fairy YHA and recharge for another day on the Great Ocean Road.
Where to stay: An eight-minute walk away at Port Fairy YHA.
The Great Ocean Road Brewhouse
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The number one craft beer destination on the Great Ocean Road, and it’s just a few steps away from Apollo Bay YHA! Where the hills meet the ocean, you’ll fall in love with this fantastic spot serving up your two favourite things: craft beer and pub food. The menu is huge for a brewery – from their signature parma to a kangaroo souvlaki, you’re guaranteed to find something to satisfy your cravings. The best part? The Beer Garden is dog friendly – enjoy your food and drinks surrounded by adorable doggos (and the occasional catto). This icon of Apollo Bay also does plenty of community work, raising money for local schools and sports teams. Sip your ice cold craft beer knowing that your dollars are helping support worthy causes.
Where to stay: A three-minute walk away at Apollo Bay YHA.
TASMANIA
Oyster Cove Inn, Kettering
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For a fantastic meal with a view, look no further than Oyster Cove Inn, just a short trip outside of Hobart to the charming town of Kettering. Unsurprisingly, the menu has a strong emphasis on fresh and delicious local seafood, as well as the usual pub favourites to fill your belly after a long day exploring Tasmania. Enjoy your meal outside while overlooking the marina and stunning Bruny Island. During the colder months, enjoy your food indoors by a crackling log fire feeling totally at peace with the world. If you’re a fan of seafood and bargains (and who isn’t?), order the seafood platter for one: a delicious steal at $39. Oyster Cove Inn is all the perks of fine dining - but affordable and welcoming.
Where to stay: Just half an hour in the car, make a day trip out of it from Hobart Central YHA.
The Bridport Bunker Club, Bridport
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Using only the freshest and best Tasmanian produce, you’re guaranteed a filling and tasty meal when you visit this buzzing hotspot. Feast your eyes on a stunning view over the bay, as you immerse yourself in the warm and friendly atmosphere typical of Tasmania. Specialties include scallops, affordable steaks and scrumptious sticky date pudding. Locals and travellers alike rave about the delicious food and bubbly service – don’t miss grabbing a meal here if you find yourself in the quiet town of Bridport.
Where to stay: A four-minute walk away at Bridport YHA.
AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
Casey Jones Pub, Casey
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Okay, nothing in the Australian Capital Territory is really in "the country," but we couldn’t leave out this fantastic spot. Offering not just delicious lunch and dinner, but breakfast too, Casey Jones Pub is a much-loved gem of the Canberra area. Enjoy some outstanding comfort food from burgers to pastas, and wash it down with a delicious selection of beer and cider. If you prefer the grapey stuff, get around $5 wine night on Mondays from 4-6pm. The ACT has no shortage of fantastic pubs, restaurants and cafes, but if you’re looking for something a little out of the way – Casey Jones is the watering hole for you.
Where to stay: A 20-minute drive away at the only hostel in the ACT - Canberra City YHA.
