The colonial history of Sydney can be seen vividly today in the large number of historic pubs that can be visited around the city.
Many vie for the title of “Sydney’s oldest pub” with a variety of claims to the title, but no matter which you choose, you’ll feel like you’re walking back into the past and are getting a little glimpse of Sydney’s history.
Having a drink at a pub that’s nearly 200 years old is certainly a unique experience, so we thought we’d put together a list of our favourite historic pubs in Sydney.
The Best Historic Pubs in Sydney
1. The Lord Nelson, The Rocks
It doesn’t really get more historic than the Lord Nelson, even the name alone is a nod to Sydney’s colonial past.
The Lord Nelson has the title of the “oldest continually licensed pub in Sydney” and it still retains its old world atmosphere today with barrels dotted around the pub, stone walls and wooden floors.
Nowadays it’s also a brewery, restaurant and even a hotel, so a trip here can be more than just simply having a cold drink.
2. The Fortune of War, The Rocks
Situated in the heart of the Rocks, the Fortune of War calls itself “the oldest pub in Sydney” (we assume at some point it was closed as the Lord Nelson grabs the title of “oldest continually licensed pub”), having opened in 1828.
This pub isn’t grand on scale, but at 196 years old, it still retains the character and charm of the past, and has a feel of history as soon as you walk in.
It’s a convenient place to visit if you’re exploring Sydney for the day as it’s a short distance from Circular Quay and the Museum of Contemporary Art, so it’s perfect for a quick drink.
3. The Hero of Waterloo, The Rocks
You’re probably beginning to see a trend here, as most of Sydney’s historic pubs are named after famous British generals or elude to naval history.
Built in 1843, the Hero of Waterloo is packed with stories, including the legend that there’s a secret tunnel that runs from the cellar to the harbour to smuggle rum, as well as shackles on the walls to show it’s colonial history.
You can drop in for a drink or some food, but those wanting to learn more can join their ghost tour to hear the stories surrounding the pub.
4. The Lord Dudley, Woollahra
The Lord Dudley is one of the younger historic pubs on the list, but it’s still nearly 130 years old!
This shows as the interior has a more modern modern style than the others on this list so far, but still has aspects you’d associate with an old historic pub: fireplace, traditional food and even some armchairs to sink into.
5. The Australian Heritage Hotel, The Rocks
As you’d expect by the name, the Australian Heritage Hotel is as Aussie as it gets with regards to historic pubs in Sydney.
This institution serves only beer and wine made in Australia, and it’s clear where you are when you see that you can have emu, crocodile or kangaroo as your pizza topping!
Despite being built in 1914, the Australian has the claim of having the “longest running hotel license in Sydney”, so you’ll still be ticking off another one of those landmark claims by visiting here.
6. The Glenmore Hotel, The Rocks
The Glenmore Hotel is not just a historic pub, it’s home to one of the best rooftop views in Sydney. Overlooking the harbour with a classic Opera House view,
The Glenmore is the perfect spot for a cold drink on a hot summer day. It’s another youngie on the list at 102 years old, but it still gives off that historic charm you’re looking for.
7. The Royal Hotel, Paddington
The Royal Hotel espouses grandeur from its Victorian style facade and continues to deliver with incredible views of the harbour and city. This makes it the perfect place to visit on a sunny afternoon.
It’s one of the pubs on this list that has a modern interior, so whilst it was built in 1888, it doesn’t have the 19th century feel of some of the others on the list.
8. The Lord Wolseley, Ultimo
Named after Field Marshal Lord Wolseley, this iconic pub exudes nostalgia with its classic façade and warm interior.
Running since 1881, The Lord Wolseley offers a welcoming retreat for locals and visitors alike, combining craft beers, fine wines, and signature cocktails with classic pub food.
