Sydney’s colonial history is visible today in the many historic pubs that can be visited around the city.
Having a drink at a pub that’s nearly 200 years old is certainly a unique experience, so we put together a list of our favourite historic pubs in Sydney.
1. The Lord Nelson, The Rocks
It doesn’t get more historic than the Lord Nelson Brewery, even the name alone is a nod to Sydney’s colonial past.
The Lord Nelson is the “oldest continually licensed pub in Sydney” and it still retains its old atmosphere 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 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 197 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 allude 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, and is decorated with shackles on the walls to show its 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!
The interior has a more modern style than the others on this list, but it 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.
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 Heritage Hotel has 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. While it’s one of the “younger” pubs on the list at 102 years old, 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 with a modern interior, so whilst it was built in 1888, it doesn’t have the 19th-century feel compared to others.
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.
Looking to grab a drink with a view? Sydney’s rooftop bars have so much to offer.
