Oldest Pubs in Sydney

First up, the Fortune of War is a staple in Sydney’s watering-hole history, claiming the title of the oldest continuously licensed pub in the city.

In the heart of The Rocks, this iconic watering hole has been serving locals and visitors since it was built in 1828 by Samuel Terry, a former convict who rose to prominence as an astute businessman.

Known as the “Botany Bay Rothschild,” Terry’s life story adds an extra layer of intrigue to this storied pub. Originally constructed as an inn, the Fortune of War was rebuilt by local brewery Tooth & Co in the 1920s, but its original license remained intact, preserving its long-standing place in Sydney's history.

Throughout its nearly two centuries of service, this pub has always been more than just a place to grab a drink. It earned a reputation as the “first and last stop ashore” for sailors and Australian troops before they embarked on missions during wartime.

This connection to the Australian Armed Forces is still felt today, particularly on Anzac Day, when veterans and locals gather to honor the country’s military history.

Located on Cumberland Street after moving from its original George Street location, the Australian Heritage Hotel has been an essential part of Sydney’s pub scene since 1824.

Known affectionately as "The Aussie," this pub is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, timber-lined walls, and quirky Australian menu, with everything from gourmet kangaroo and crocodile pizzas, to its extensive selection of over 130 Australian craft beers.

This Edwardian-era pub stands out not just for its food and drinks but also for its dedication to supporting Australian brewers and winemakers. Visitors can attempt the Aussie Beer Passport challenge, sampling craft beers from across the country while ticking off their favorites.

For a taste of true Aussie culture and a journey through Australian craft beer, the Australian Heritage Hotel remains an essential stop in Sydney’s historic precinct.

Psssst! Did you know that the Sydney Government was forced to tear down the original Australian Heritage Hotel, because of a plague outbreak in 1900? Yikes!

Standing for more than 170 years, the Hero of Waterloo is one of Sydney’s most atmospheric pubs. Built by convicts in the 1840s, this heritage-listed sandstone pub has a history as rich as the city itself.

Named after the Duke of Wellington, the Hero of Waterloo is famous for its ghost stories. Its most notorious tale involves the ghost of Anne Kirkman, said to haunt the pub after her mysterious death in 1849. Legend has it that her ghostly presence can be felt, with chairs mysteriously moved and piano music heard in the dead of night.

For more other instances of ghostly presences in haunted pubs, click here: Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem - Nottingham, United Kingdom (citydays.com).

The pub’s darker history is complemented by its status as one of Sydney’s must-visit landmarks. With live music, heritage tours of its underground cellars, and the remnants of a tunnel used for smuggling rum and sailors, the Hero of Waterloo is a fascinating place to drink in both spirits and history.

Keep reading to discover one of Australia’s oldest pubs, also named after The Duke of Wellington!

Originally a private residence, erected between 1890 and 1899, Harts Pub or Harts Buildings as the entirety of the three-building complex is also referred, was spared from demolition during the post-bubonic plague era and has since evolved into one of Sydney’s leading beer venues.

This quaint two-storey brick pub stands out for its historical authenticity, having been meticulously renovated to retain its colonial aesthetic. It’s also well-known for its connection to key Australian figures, including Margaret Fulton, one of the country’s gourmet pioneers.

While Harts is one of Sydney’s oldest pubs, it also holds the title of being one of the original venues on Sydney’s craft beer scene.

Since it began this venture in 2009, Harts Pub now has 12 rotating taps and houses the Pickled Monkey Brewing Co. It takes pride in serving up an ‘all-Australian indie beer line-up’, and has a bright future in Sydney's craft beer scene.

Established in 1841, the Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel is another gem in Sydney’s historic pub scene. Originally a three-storey sandstone building, this establishment holds the title of the oldest continuously licensed hotel in Sydney—so not quite the oldest pub, but pretty close!

Over the years, it has evolved into a modern, funky pub with a huge personality, leaving its historical roots in the past. The addition of a brewery in the 1980s has made the Lord Nelson famous for its locally brewed beers, offering a range of refreshing ales and modern Aussie grub.

Located in The Rocks, the pub is a perfect place to base yourself when exploring Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct. It is surrounded by most of Sydney’s major attractions and other hidden gems, such as Observatory Hill and the Chinese Garden of Friendship.

Dating back to 1815, the Macquarie Arms Hotel is considered the oldest pub on the Australian mainland.

Positioned along the Hawkesbury River, in Windsor, an hour west of Sydney, this heritage-listed pub offers more than just food and drinks; it’s a step back in time.

Built under the orders of Governor Lachlan Macquarie, the pub boasts a history that includes convict laborers who not only built the establishment but also lived in its cellar.

To discover more of Governor Macquarie’s commissioned projects, click here: Mrs Macquarie’s Chair - Sydney, Australia | CityDays.

Although modern additions like live music and a beer garden have been introduced, many historical features remain intact including the circular cedar staircase, the Georgian doorway, and the intricate cedar joinery that have all been preserved.

Keep an eye out for signs of the 1867 flood—the worst ever recorded in the district!

The Macquarie Arms Hotel has also seen multiple roles over the centuries, from being a private home between 1840 and 1872 to hosting military regiments and convicts. Today, it continues to attract both inquisitive history lovers and casual patrons who enjoy its heritage-laden charm.

Dating back to 1834, the Surveyor General Inn is Australia’s oldest continuously licensed inn.

Located in the picturesque Southern Highlands, this inn has seen nearly two centuries of colonial history unfold. Constructed from locally sourced sandstone and sand stock bricks, its rough-hewn façade and carved cedar bar have weathered the test of time.

The inn is a relic of the early colonial days, when it was one of 20 licensed premises in the small town of Berrima.

The Survivor General’s proximity to the Old Hume Highway made it a popular stop for weary travelers, and ties in with its connection to several notorious bushrangers in its early days, including the legendary ‘Captain Thunderbolt’.

Who was Thunderbolt? Frederick Ward a.k.a Captain Thunderbolt was an Australian bushranger—armed robbers and outlaws—renowned for escaping from Cockatoo Island, and also for his survival, as the longest-roaming bushranger in Australian history.

Today, it continues to draw visitors with its cozy fireplace and shaded verandah. Although many other inns closed their doors, the Surveyor General Inn continued operating, undeterred by economic hardships such as a bypassed railway.

Established in 1853, The Duke of Wellington holds the title of Melbourne’s oldest licensed pub.

The historic establishment is situated close to Federation Square and Flinders Street in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, and is so much more than a simple pub.

Whether you’re in the city for a date night, to sample some hot jam donuts at Victoria Market, or something a little different like an outdoor escape game, The Duke of Wellington is a prime spot to enjoy drinks, sports, and rest after a long day of fun.

Renowned for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, The Duke caters to a diverse clientele, from sports fans to casual visitors. Its recent addition of a rooftop bar provides a modern twist on this classic venue.

Built in 1851, The Grand View Hotel holds the distinction of being Queensland’s oldest licensed pub.

Located in Cleveland, this historic building, also known as 'Grandy', or 'GV', has seen numerous transformations over the years. Originally built by Francis Bigge, the hotel was intended to serve as a statement of confidence in the development of the Cleveland area.

Throughout its history, The Grand View Hotel has served various purposes, including as a boarding house.

At one point in its history, The Grand View Hotel even served as a venue for religious services, which seems a little at odds with its principle function as a pub.

It became known as The Grand View in 1910 and underwent major renovations in the 1880s and 1990s, shaping it into the two-storey form we see today.

Although the hotel is currently closed for renovations and expected to reopen at the end of 2024, The Grand View is a cherished part of Queensland’s heritage as one of Australia's oldest pubs.

So since we’re covering the broad context of the oldest pubs in Australia, let’s look at the country as a whole, including its nearby Island State, Tasmania.

Just a short walk from Salamanca Place and Constitution Dock, in Hobart, The Hope and Anchor Tavern rivals them all dating back to 1807.

As Australia's oldest continuously licensed pub, it has long been a favored meeting spot for sailors, travelers, and locals. Guests can enjoy a carefully curated selection of Tasmania’s finest beers, wines, and spirits, alongside traditional Tasmanian pub fare.

While the tavern has had periods of closure throughout its long history, it has remained a vital part of Hobart's identity.

Over the years, The Hope and Anchor has evolved from its humble beginnings into a well-regarded establishment, known for its beautifully preserved historic architecture that earned it a spot on the Tasmanian Heritage Register in 1998.

Watch this space! Following a change in ownership in 2022, local businessman John Kelly, renowned for his expertise in heritage restoration, plans to conduct an archaeological dig of the surrounding land before embarking on sensitive restoration efforts to enhance this beloved pub.

So here we have one last ‘oldest pub in Australia’ for the road!

Established in 1864, the Nindigully Pub is one of Queensland’s oldest continually licensed public houses.

Known locally as "The Gully," it is located on the banks of the Moonie River. Over the years, the pub has operated under various names, including Sternes and Tattersalls.

You might recognise the Nindigully Pub from ‘Paperback Hero’, the 1999 film featuring Hugh Jackman, when it went by the name of Lucktown Pub.

Unlike many other historic pubs, the Nindigully Pub has survived despite its remote location because of its deep connection to the surrounding farming community.

Until 1999, the entire town of Nindigully, including the pub, was part of a large farming property. And today the pub’s survival is credited to the local farmers who have frequented and supported it throughout the years.