Don't Miss These Top Mudgee Pubs & Breweries

Hopheads and food-lovers alike will be well-watered at these Mudgee pubs and breweries.

From craft beer bars that promise deliciously charred house-smoked barbecue to Irish pubs with vast, eclectically styled balconies and an array of cocktails on offer, the pub and brewery offering in Mudgee is wider than you might think. These country pubs are also top spots for a bountiful counter meal or courtyard session once you’ve made it through Mudgee’s top restaurants. Here’s our round-up of Mudgee’s best pubs and breweries.

1. Three Tails Brewery

Best for: Smoky meats and hoppy treats

Opening its doors in early 2021, this Mudgee brewery very quickly amassed a strong local following – and has become a firm favourite with city visitors – for its holy trinity of great beer, rustic ambience and deliciously robust food.

pub meals with a drink on the table at Three Tails Brewery, Mudgee — Find Tapas-style fare and house-smoked barbecue on the menu. (Image: Amber Creative)

There’s a raft of great hoppy pales (mid- to full-strength) and IPAs on tap, and the 21-strong line-up includes both guest beers and those brewed in-house at Three Tails Brewery . Indecisive drinkers can sample four at once with the tasting paddle.

a look inside Three Tails Brewery in Mudgee — The brewery is adorned with ceiling-mounted bicycles. (Image: Amber Creative)

The brewery is big on celebrating independent producers, with all the guest beers sourced from small craft brewers across the globe. The focus on indies extends to the wine, snack and soft drink offering, too: all wines are exclusively sourced from Mudgee, cider and seltzers come from NZ’s Zeffer, and even the jerky comes from Canberra. Three Tails is also an inclusive space for sober and spirit drinkers with a number of tempting non-alcoholic options on offer, in addition to gin and whisky flights.

an overflowing glass of beer on tap at Three Tails Brewery, Mudgee — Take your pick from the 21 IPAs available on tap. (Image: Amber Creative)

If you need to fortify your fermented tipples with some dinner, there’s the wildly moreish house-smoked barbecue from Smokin Bro & Co or a concise selection of tapas-style fare from Lewis Street Kitchen, both handily located onsite.

Address: 13 Lewis Street, Mudgee

2. Kelly’s Irish Pub

Best for: Taking the kids and the dog out

Once known as the Sydney Hotel, there’s been a pub at this site since the early 1870s, while the building’s foundations date back to the early 1860s. Kelly’s Irish Pub features a suntrap of a balcony bar festooned with string lights, and a dog-friendly beer garden with a kid’s playground – arguably its two major draws.

the exterior of Kelly’s Irish Pub in Mudgee — The wraparound balcony and do-friendly beer garden draw the crowds to this Mudgee pub.

When it comes to food, Kelly’s Balcony Bar prides itself on the house burgers, from classic southern fried chicken burgers to pulled pork and southern fried chicken, perfect with a side of popcorn pork. And on the drinks front, expect classic cocktails with a little twist (hello butterscotch espresso martini and passionfruit mojito). There’s also live music every weekend.

a dinner spread on the table near the fireplace at Kelly’s Irish Pub, Mudgee — Kelly’s has all the hallmarks of a great pub: a cosy fireplace, delicious comfort food, and drinks to suit all occasions.

Address: 49 Church Street, Mudgee

3. Oriental Hotel

Best for: Sipping on gin

Endearingly known as The Ori, this Mudgee pub is a great all-rounder. Light pours in through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the two-storey hotel, which houses a gin bar and a restaurant. There’s an array of classic pub grub dishes on offer (think schnitties and chips, burgers, nachos, steaks and more) and plenty of lunch and midweek specials too.

the exterior of Oriental Hotel at sunset — The two-storey hotel features a gin bar and restaurant.

After a long day of sightseeing, quench your thirst with one of the pub’s more than a dozen gins, then pick from the wild array of mixers, and finally select your garnish to create the perfect custom drink.

a person holding a plate of food at the Oriental Hotel — The menu features all the classics with a collection of mid-week and lunch specials to mix things up.

Address: 6 Lewis Street, Mudgee

4. Mudgee Brewing Company

Best for: Entertainment any night of the week

Going strong since 2007, Mudgee Brewing Compan y bears all the hallmarks of a good time: live music on Fridays and Sundays, a beer garden, open fires to cosy up next to come winter, and, of course, some excellent beers. Chief among the offerings is the taproom’s signature Mudgee Mud, an imperial stout with notes of aniseed and liquorice, that was inspired by an eponymous brew from one of the town’s original breweries, The Federal, which was founded in 1883 but shut up shop in 1956.

getting beer on tap at Mudgee Brewing Company — You can taste the history poured into the taproom’s signature Mudgee Mud.

The family-owned microbrewery-cum-restaurant dishes up bistro-style meals, with a strong focus on gluten-free options. Swing by for one of the Sunday sessions, open mic night on Thursdays, trivia on Wednesdays and to kick back under its corrugated roof and timber rafters. Buy a growler of one of the dozen brews on offer to savour back at home.

Address: 4 Church Street, Mudgee

5. Woolpack Hotel

Best for: Not your usual pub grub

Tearing away from tradition, Mudgee’s Woolpack Hotel is host to a Chinese fusion restaurant, Jumbucks, which dishes up everything from deep-fried duck in plum sauce to prawn dumplings and sweet and sour fish fritters. But those who only have eyes for Aussie classics don’t have to miss out, as there’s a smattering of more familiar dishes on the menu, such as T-bone steak and chicken parmi. This smart local, featuring modern interiors, is popular with the younger crowd, and features a beer garden. Should the night carry on longer than anticipated, you can even book a stay upstairs in one of the boutique-style rooms.

the pub exterior of Woolpack Hotel in Mudgee — The Woolpack Hotel sits in the heart of Mudgee. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 67 Market Street, Mudgee

6. The Prince of Wales Hotel, Gulgong

Best for: Country pub nostalgia

If you’re after a country pub with plenty of personality, then you’ve come to the right place. Although technically not ‘in’ Mudgee, this historic pub is just a 30-minute drive away and still part of the wider Mudgee region (we highly recommend you explore more of the region with our 7-day road trip itinerary).

the beer garden with a fireplace at The Prince of Wales Hotel — Make a beeline for a spot near the stone fireplace in the beer garden on sunny winter days.

You can expect cold beer and warm hospitality at The Prince of Wales Hotel, which has been in the same family since 1976. It’s awash with antique curios and memorabilia, plus two open fireplaces – one in the cosy, carpeted interior and one stone fireplace in the beer garden.

the bar at The Prince of Wales Hotel, Gulgong — The Prince of Wales Hotel delivers a hit of nostalgia at the historic pub.

Address: 97 Mayne Street, Gulgong

7. Paragon Hotel

Best for: That beer garden

This corner pub was built back in 1857, just as the rush for gold turned from trickle to stampede, and has been pouring frosty pints ever since. Through a procession of publicans, one of whom rather unfortunately died from an insect bite in 1890, the good times have carried on for a century plus 64 years. History and heritage sprawl across two levels, out onto a sun-filled balcony and into a bright courtyard, where convivial cosiness keeps revellers both relaxed and entertained.

Food at the Bushman’s Table keeps things on an even keel without re-inventing the wheel. Tuck into the usual suspects, such as schnitzel, an Aussie burger, a steak sandwich and fish and chips or tuck into a pizza or a Bushman’s share board. There’s an array of spritzers and cocktails to keep the party going and, should it need to end, there are 13 well-styled rooms upstairs.

Address: 38 Perry Street, Mudgee

8. The Centennial Hotel

Best for: Living la vida local

No one can accuse the ‘Cenny’ for harbouring any pretension. This local pub, complete with bar barnacles that infuse the place with wonderful character, has been welcoming patrons for longer than any hotel in Gulgong. Built in 1872, the Cenny even featured on Australia’s first $10 note and has since kept its legendary reputation afloat with a raft of interesting characters spending time within its walls, from drifters to musicians and jockeys.

the pub exterior of Centennial Hotel, Mudgee — Expect a warm welcome at the Centennial Hotel. (Image: Destination NSW)

It’s rustic and welcoming with regular live entertainment, happy hour on Friday and Saturday nights, sports and meat raffles. The bistro plates up comforting, home-style fare with a rotation of rib-sticking specials on the board and basic rooms out back are on offer, should you feel like lingering longer than planned.

Address: 141–143 Mayne Street, Gulgong

Updates written by Lara Picone

For more travel tips and expert advice, read our Mudgee travel guide.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

8 Mudgee pubs and brewpubs to visit