The Greatest Blue Mountains Pub Crawl

This may not be your usual Blue Mountains trail, but it should definitely be on your bucket list.

The Blue Mountains in NSW is the gift that just keeps on giving, with a range of trails on offer for a variety of different interests. Whether you’re keen to increase your heart rate on one of the region’s epic hikes or read your way through the Blue Mountains Bookshop Trail, there’s something for everyone.

But if neither of those is particularly up your alley, fear not – there’s another self-guided path that may just pique your interest. It may not officially be a recognised trail, but a Blue Mountains pub crawl is worthy of a weekend away in this picturesque slice of paradise.

1. Brew Mountains Brewery, Valley Heights

You’ll have to head a little ways up the mountain to start, but you’ll begin with a bang at Brew Mountains Brewery in Valley Heights. It may be nestled in an unassuming industrial area off the main road, but this microbrewery is not one to miss.

Lovers of craft beer will be spoilt for choice, with a rotating roster of unorthodox brews packed with flavour on tap. There’s your classic pale ale, but also more experimental brews like the grapefruit IPA. If you’re not a fan of beer, don’t fear. Brew Mountains makes its own cider, hard lemonade and ginger beer. Local wines are also available.

If you opt to sit inside, try to nab the comfy armchairs in the corner. Otherwise, the milk crates outside are perfect for a makeshift roundtable of mates. You can fuel up for your crawl up the mountain at the food truck; there’s one parked up outside on weekends.

Brew Mountains Brewery in Valley Height, Blue Mountains — The ever-rotating taps at Brew Mountains pour delicious ales. (Image: Time Out)

2. The Oriental Hotel, Springwood

A five-minute drive up the road and you’ll be at The Oriental Hotel . Known among locals as ‘The Ori’, this classic pub is a favourite among residents and visitors of Springwood alike.

Established in 1878, the pub has lived through multiple acquisitions, even serving as a government shelter for orphans during World War II. Embracing its historic charm, many of its Victorian details remain, from the hipped-slated roof and rendered chimneys to its pressed metal ceiling and ornate balconies.

Despite its age, The Ori serves up contemporary pub vibes and is the perfect spot for a beverage. There are 16 ever-changing beers on tap, plus a range of wines, ciders, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks on offer.

3. The Henry Hotel, Lawson

Your next stop is in the sweet town of Lawson at The Henry Hotel , another historic Blue Mountains pub. Just looking at the place will take you back in time; even more so when you walk through its doors.

The pub was originally built in 1845 and situated on 100 acres of land. These days, its perimeter is much smaller, but The Henry still maintains its traditions. Think good company, delicious food, friendly staff and cold beer.

If you’re making a weekend out of it, The Henry is also a top spot to crash. Upstairs, well-appointed rooms combine classic hotel charm with a refurbished freshness. Come for a couple of cold ones, stay for the cosy accommodation.

4. Grand View Hotel, Wentworth Falls

Next up, head into Wentworth Falls to check out the Grand View Hotel . It may not necessarily live up to its name, but it’s still a great pit stop on your Blue Mountains pub crawl.

The hotel is home to a great beer garden dotted with shrubbery, large umbrellas and ample seating options. If it’s a little too dreary outside, the restored interior exudes historic charm and is the perfect setting for a pub lunch by the fireplace.

The Grand View Hotel is located along the Great Western Highway, the main thoroughfare through the Blue Mountains. Pull in for a pint before you continue up the hill to your next stop.

5. The Bunker, Leura

Only a five-minute drive up the road (sans traffic) and you’ll be in one of the cutest towns in the Blue Mountains. Of course, we’re talking about Leura. With its boutique shops, great lookouts and cosy accommodation options, you may want to linger a little longer.

The Bunker in Leura, Blue Mountains — Settle in at The Bunker for a tipple or two. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Bunker is on your right as you enter Leura, just before the main street begins. Hidden among a cluster of tall pines and a sprawling garden, it’s easy to lose track of time here. Enjoy a tipple or two with views across town and undulating mountains in the distance.

Known among locals as one of the cosiest cafes in town, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’re keen for a bite to eat. And if you’re after an unforgettable experience, book the Dining Dome, a private bubble-like structure with 360-degree views.

6. Polar Bear of Leura

You’ll find the Polar Bear of Leura in Leura Mall on the main road in town. Nestled inside an unassuming brick building, this speakeasy-style bar is like stepping into another dimension.

Its rustic chic interior exudes charm, emitting local New York bar vibes with a cocktail list to match. Sip on a fruity and sweet Tony’s Strawberry Rose or try its namesake The Polar Bear for an explosion of flavours. Trust us, the list goes on…

There’s also an extensive list of Australian wines and craft beers to suit all tastebuds. Fancy a snack? The Mediterranean-inspired menu features everything from kavurma starters to lamb shish plates.

Polar Bear of Leura, Blue Mountains — The interior of the cosy bar is artfully designed.

7. Mountain Culture Beer Co., Katoomba

Considered the jewel of the Blue Mountains, Katoomba is rife with bars and pubs perfect for a pub crawl. Yet only one brewery has staked its claim in town, and it’s become a stalwart both locally and nationally.

Mountain Culture Beer Co in Katoomba, Blue Mountains — The brewery is popular among locals and tourists alike. (Image: Destination NSW)

Since opening its doors in late 2019, Mountain Culture Beer Co. has steadily risen in popularity. These days, the craft brewery is packed out most weekends. Don’t let this deter you though; you’re sure to find a seat outside, on the main floor or up on the mezzanine.

With a fervent rotation of delicious craft beers, hopheads will have a heyday here. Sample oat cream IPAs, Aussie lagers or the Status Quo NEPA, voted Australia’s #1 beer in GABS Hottest 100 two years in a row. Hot tip: the fried pickles are a must.

8. Station Bar, Katoomba

Walk a couple minutes down the road and you’ll stumble into Station Bar . This kooky, cool bar is a great spot to hang, with road signs, band posters and spirit bottles lining the walls.

The place is always pumping, especially on weekends. Get amongst it with plenty of craft beers on tap, as well as extensive cocktail and wine lists. There’s also local live music on Saturday nights.

Come for the cocktails, stay for the woodfired pizza. It’s known across town as some of the best slices in the mountains, all named after local towns. The Glenbrook and Lawson are crowd pleasers.

Station Bar in Katoomba, Blue Mountains, NSW — Station Bar is known for its great drinks menu and delicious wood-fired pizza.

9. The Bootlegger Bar, Katoomba

Living up to its motto – low and slow – The Bootlegger is just across the road from Station Bar. Although, it offers up quite a different vibe. The old-fashioned interior conjures up feelings of nostalgia, warmth and relaxation.

Bootlegger Bar in Katoomba, Blue Mountains — You’ll feel warmly welcomed as soon as you enter Bootlegger.

Divvied up between two cosy floors, the smokehouse-cross-bar takes inspiration from Southern barbecue and Cajan cuisines. This results in a mouth-watering menu that should be savoured over a few hours.

The drinks menu is also worthy of your time, with premium wines, an abundance of spirits, vibrant cocktails and a variety of local and classic tap beers. Don’t be surprised if you lose track of time at Bootlegger, it’s just the way here.

10. Champagne Charlie’s, Katoomba

Situated in the heart of Katoomba, old-world glamour seemingly seeps from the walls at The Carrington, home to Champagne Charlie’s . Known as the oldest cocktail bar in town, it’s named after Lord Carrington, a notorious ‘Champagne Charlie’ (a man noted for living a life of luxury and excess).

Settle into a grand armchair near the fireplace and choose wisely from the drinks menu. Although it’s subject to seasonal changes, guests can always expect well-crafted cocktails, local craft beer and an extensive range of wines.

The elegant hotel dates back to 1883 and still maintains its historic allure to this day. If you’re looking for somewhere to rest your head, it’s also one of the best places to stay in Katoomba.

The Carrington in Katoomba, Blue Mountains — The Carrington exudes old-world charm from the outside in. (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Dryridge Estate, Megalong Valley

Oenophiles, this one’s for you. Although the Blue Mountains is home to many amazing pubs and bars, dip down into the Megalong Valley and you’ll find Dryridge Estate . It is the perfect place to see the Blue Mountains from a different perspective.

Dryridge Estate in Megalong Valley, NSW — The views from Dryridge are unmatched.

Veer off the Great Western Highway onto Megalong Road and you’ll eventually arrive at the winery, sitting pretty among rolling vineyards and green hills. Sit outside and you’ll be rewarded with views of sandstone escarpments that turn golden in the sunlight.

The wines produced at Dryridge Estate are especially unique thanks to the pink granite soil of the region. The best way to go about things here is the wine-tasting experience, just $15 per person for seven wine samples. Trust us, add the cheeseboard too.

12. Hydro Majestic, Medlow Bath

Back up on the mountain ridge, your next stop is the stunning Hydro Majestic in Medlow Bath. Home to three restaurants/bars, you could hop around this stunning hotel all day long. Plus, it offers some of the best views the Blue Mountains has to offer.

Hydro Majestic in Medlow Bath, Blue Mountains — You’ll be swept away by the views from the Hydro. (Image: Destination NSW)

Make your choice depending on the vibe you’re after. The Wintergarden is known for its high tea and gourmet dinner menu. The Boiler House is a separate space, offering a more laidback experience. Then there’s Salon du Thé, with its oriental design and chic furnishings.

Whether you want to check out all three or simply settle in to one, how you spend your time here is completely up to you. Either way, you’re guaranteed a good drink and a great view.

The Boiler House at Hydro Majestic in Medlow Bath, Blue Mountains — The Boiler House is great for a casual meal. (Image: Destination NSW)

13. Side B Vinyl Bar, Blackheath

Nestled by Blackheath’s more traditional Gardner’s Inn, you’ll find the cool and calm Side B Vinyl Bar . And although they’re right next door to each other, the two drinking dens are worlds apart.

Side B Vinyl Bar in Blackheath, Blue Mountains — The cocktails at Side B Vinyl Bar go down a treat.

Record store by day, cocktail bar by night, Side B is truly the place to be in Blackheath. With its dim lighting, wooden accents and plush red lounges, you’ll enter a whole new world just by walking through the front door.

Spend the afternoon browsing through vinyl then settle in for a cocktail, beer or wine come evening. You’ll be whisked away by the bar’s warm buzz, which mixes perfectly with indistinct chatter and local live music.

14. Frankie & Mo’s, Blackheath

Unfortunately, you’ve reached your final stop on this epic Blue Mountains pub crawl. But, lucky for you, it’s ending with an absolute bang. Just off the main road and nestled into a row of residential homes, you’ll find Frankie and Mo’s .

Frankie & Mo's in Blackheath, Blue Mountains — Choose from a well-curated range of delicious local wine.

The triple threat – combining a restaurant, natural wine bar and bottle shop into one – is sure to delight. The cosy drinking den is warm and welcoming, specialising in organic, ethically farmed natural wine. The best part? If you find a bottle you love, you can take it home with you.

Time your trip to align with Frankie & Mo’s opening hours so you don’t miss out. The cellar door is open on weekends; the kitchen and bottle shop Thursday through Sunday, with hours varying. Want to extend your trip? Book into one of Blackheath’s stunning retreats to really get the lay of the land.

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

The greatest Blue Mountains pub crawl