31 of the Top Newcastle Pubs, Bars and Breweries

Newcastle pubs, bars and breweries have come of age – let’s raise a glass.

Newcastle pubs are a dime a dozen. From gritty pubs that are all blue-collar cool to others that feature potted palm trees and DJs. A few decades ago, the option for knock-off drinks in Newcastle was limited to a few full-strength schooners at the pub on a Friday arvo. But oh, how the Steel City has evolved. In addition to its old-school pubs, Newcastle now has everything from ambitious bars to clubby waterfront hangs and atmospheric breweries. Here are a few of Newcastle’s best pubs, bars and breweries.

The best bars in Newcastle

1. Coal & Cedar

Coal & Cedar in Newcastle, NSW — Slip into this dimly-lit speakeasy for a tipple or two. (Image: Destination NSW)

Text a special code to a number on the wall outside this hidden gem to gain entry to Coal & Cedar , a dimly lit speakeasy-style whisky bar with scuffed-up walls and dark timber tones. Here, the drinks are made with attention to detail and the customers look like they’ve all filed in from The Lincoln Room Barbershop & Shaving Parlour next door.

Address: 380 Hunter St, Newcastle

2. Granddad’s Jacks Bar

people chitchatting and drinking inside Granddad’s Bar, Newcastle — Hit up Granddad’s Bar to sip on signature cocktails.

If Granddad’s Jacks Bar looks like it has been decorated with heirlooms donated by a beloved family member, that’s because it has been. The bar only crafts cocktails with spirits made at its Gold Coast craft distillery, Granddad Jack’s. Both the bar and the distillery pay tribute to founder David Ridden’s whisky-loving grandfather, Jack. Toast to the old man and his penchant for artful excess with one of the bar’s expertly made cocktails.

Address: 515 Hunter Street, Newcastle

3. The Koutetsu

a glass of drink at The Koutetsu — The Koutetsu is a small speakeasy that’s big on vibes. (Image: Jordan Reynolds @PhoenixMediaProductions)

The Koutetsu is a small speakeasy bar located on a ho-hum section of Hunter St. Koutetsu means ‘steel’ in Japanese and is a nod to both the bar’s decor and the city’s history as a site for steelworks. Look for the neon sign that whispers ‘TK’ to passers-by and head in past the original window filled with junk and ephemera that celebrates the building’s past as a pawnbroker.

Address: 555 Hunter St, Newcastle West

4. Market St Basement

Step inside Market St Basement and you will feel like you have fallen into one of your nonna’s sepia-toned photographs from life back in Rome. Located in Newcastle’s hip and happening East End, Market St Basement is all framed photographs and hanging greenery. Bunker down in the basement bar for pizza and a glass of wine.

Address: 1/2 Market Street, Newcastle

5. Earp Distilling Co.

Earp Distilling Co. in Newcastle, NSW — Earp’s facade is a nod to its tile-making history. (Image: Destination NSW)

Earp Distilling Co . is a destination unto itself. It’s the kind of place you go to spend a lazy afternoon taking a distillery tour or geeking out at spirit school. The distillery bar is in harbourside Carrington, known colloquially as Carrodise. Take a selfie in front of the botanic-themed mosaic tile facade, which winks back to the Earp family business, one of the oldest tile manufacturers in Australia.

Address: 41 Darling Street, Carrington

6. The Falcon

the interior of The Falcon, Newcastle — A vibrant atmosphere meets Southern US-inspired cuisine at this hot spot.

The Falcon has landed. And it’s via Florida in the US, where co-owner and chef Brendhan Bennison hails from. Create a Venn diagram of all that The Falcon offers and you’ll find common elements such as food, drinks and vibes intersecting in the circles. The popular Newcastle East haunt has a sister venue, Ship Inn , which is also a top spot to sink a few cold ones.

Address: 10 Pacific St, Newcastle

7. Bar Mellow

Bar Mellow is set in a handsome 1920s building known as Bank Corner, notable for its ornate facade and dramatic timber doors. Step inside the intimate bar to find leather booths, murals and an old bank vault. There’s also an enticing menu of snacks such as olives, cheese plates and charcuterie. Bar Mellow is, as the name suggests, a good place to chill. But it’s also where the action happens. Don’t worry, what happens in Bar Mellow stays in the vault.

Address: 744 Hunter St, Newcastle

8. Lock’s Paddock

dinner at Lock’s Paddock, Newcastle — Dine on excellent European fare.

Lock’s Paddock is a beloved local haunt that contains a lot of the Steel City’s history. The go-it-alone bar is named after a nearby plot of land that was known as ‘Lock’s Paddock’. Drink to the town’s history and the story that has been passed down, literally, from paddock to plate. The style of cooking in the homey dining room, which features a collection of hats and a painting of a horse, is seasonally driven European fare.

Address: 16 Watt Street, Newcastle

9. Merewether Surfhouse

an al fresco dining setting at Merewether Surfhouse Bar, Newcastle — Snag a spot under colourful orange beach umbrellas.

Make your way to Merewether Surfhouse after hitting the beach for a surf, walk or swim. The bar has one of the best ocean views in Newcastle and is a great example of how the city is morphing to accommodate a whole new demographic. Order spritzers with a side of pizza then watch the sunset over one of Newcastle’s most beautiful beaches.

Address: 5 Henderson Parade, Merewether

The best pubs in Newcastle

10. The Lucky Hotel

Behind the faithfully restored facade of this once hidden-away CBD pub built in the 1800s, is a cosy enclosed courtyard festooned with lights and greenery. The Lucky , which was previously The Lucky Country Hotel, is full of quirky design touches, from brothel-red velvet banquettes to drum-kit chandeliers. The cocktail menu is plenty of fun.

Address: 237 Hunter St, Newcastle

11. The Beach Hotel

the light-filled interior of The Beach Hotel pub in Newcastle — The pub features a light-filled space with a laid-back style.

The Beach Hotel is an Art Deco pub that was given a makeover influenced by its sun-drenched location opposite Merewether Beach. The coastal venue offers big-sky views over Merewether, Dixon Park and Bar beaches: sit and sip on Aperol spritzes with hearty fare such as meatballs with woodfired bread or steak sangas. Time your visit with a gig from the venue’s rotating roster of local acts.

Address: 99 Frederick St, Merewether

12. The Young Street Hotel

The Young Street Hotel is much-loved by locals and gets top billing for its beer garden. Formerly known as Carrington Place, the Young Street Hotel is run by local Luke Tilse, who also heads the Happy Wombat . The regular roster of entertainment – from trivia to uno and live music – fills the pub, which has a 20-tap tower and large-screen TVs.

Address: 132 Young St, Carrington

13. Customs House Hotel

crowds of people outside Customs House Hotel — Soak up the atmosphere at Customs House Hotel. (Image: Daina Marie Photography)

An architecture geek’s guide to Newcastle would surely include a pint and a plate of oysters at Customs House Hotel . Designed in 1877, the Customs House building now houses a bar, restaurant and function centre. Tap into the landmark attraction’s 150+ years in Newcastle over a schooey and burger with the lot.

Address: 1 Bond St, Newcastle

14. The Grand Hotel

lunch at The Grand Hotel, Newcastle — The Grand Hotel offers hearty meals such as steaks, seafood, and various share platters.

You’ll always find a few English expats quaffing lagers in this grand old dame in the heart of Newcastle. This pokies-free pub looks very much the part with comfy couches, a checkerboard floor and a well-stocked bar. But the pièce de résistance at The Grand is the fireplace. Want a change of scene? Head downstairs to The Underground , the pub’s late-night speakeasy.

Address: 32 Church St, Newcastle

15. The Greenroof

Look out for the pots of cascading greenery outside The Greenroof Hotel in Hamilton, an old-timer’s pub that has had a mini makeover extending to its menu. The Greeny is a favourite place for off-duty bartenders to unite on hospo nights. And it’s just as a pub should be in the front room on a Friday – a friendly and unpretentious place for a gatho.

Address: 71 Tudor St, Hamilton

16. The Prince of Merewether

a close-up shot of food at The Prince of Merewether, Newcastle — The Prince of Merewether serves a mix of traditional pub fare and modern Australian cuisine.

Pubs are as ubiquitous as salty-haired surfers in Newcastle. But they’re not all created equal. The Prince of Merewether , or The Prince as it’s known among locals, has been a much-loved alehouse since 1876. Sink a few schooners on the breezy balcony of the pub while watching much of Merewether go by. The beach is a beautiful backdrop.

Address: 1 Morgan St, Merewether

17. The Great Northern Hotel

No guide to Newcastle’s pubs would be complete without a mention of The Great Northern Hotel . Despite being built in 1864, renovated in 1906 and rebuilt in the 1920s, the Art Deco-style pub has stood its ground. It is a smart space that serves classic pub grub such as beer-battered barra and chips, plus a varied selection of beers, wines and spirits. Lovers of live music are also well-catered for.

Address: 83-89 Scott St, Newcastle

18. The Bennett

a group of men drinking at the al fresco spot in The Bennett Hotel, Newcastle — Spend a sunny afternoon enjoying drinks in the courtyard.

Colourful yellow beach umbrellas, shady picnic benches, breeze blocks, communal tables and potted olive plants are just a few of the reasons to plonk yourself down in the courtyard at The Bennett . The renovated pub stocks a selection of locally brewed beers and Hunter Valley wines. Love your sports? The outdoor projector makes this one of the best pubs in Newcastle for watching sport.

Address: 146 Denison St, Hamilton

19. The Cricketers Arms

In addition to its large, wrap-around bar, The Cricketers Arms in Cooks Hill has one of the best beer gardens in Newcastle. And the cricket-themed menu knocks it out of the park with offerings like proper fish and chips or bangers and bash. Pair lunch with a premium selection of beer and other beverages.

Address: 61 Bruce St, Cooks Hill

20. The Grain Store

The Grain Store bar in Newcastle, NSW — The Grain Store is popular among locals and tourists alike. (Image: Destination NSW)

Corey and Kristy Crooks are credited with kicking off the craft beer revolution in Newcastle. After transforming The Albion into Australia’s first 100 per cent craft beer venue, the husband-and-wife team built The Grain Store , which has been feeding and watering Novocastrians since 2013. All up, there are over 20 independently owned Aussie craft beers and ciders on tap.

Address: 64-66 Scott St, Newcastle East

21. The Exchange

the pub interior of The Exchange with black and white striped chairs — Expect pub-style cuisine, live music, and a lively social scene at this haunt.

Thirsty to find the best pub in Newcastle? We recommend The Exchange , a character-filled pub established in 1880. Hear about the pub’s history over the past 145 years while chatting to locals on the balcony overlooking Beaumont Street. Come for the good food and extensive beverage list, stay for the trivia, live DJs and musical bingo.

Address: 125 Denison St, Hamilton

22. Commonwealth Hotel

lunch at Commonwealth Hotel, Newcastle — Enjoy plant-based dining and vegetarian meals at the Commonwealth Hotel. (Image: Daniele Massacci)

The Commy is the sort of old-school pub where you can choose your own adventure. Buy a few raffle tickets for a meat tray. Gather with your mates to watch the footy. Or enjoy a few ales in the courtyard on a sunny day. The Cooks Hill local is heaven for pub classics: think chicken wings, beef burgers and crumbed lamb cutlets.

Address: 35 Union St, Cooks Hill

23. The Hamilton Station Hotel

the building exterior of The Hamilton Station Hotel — The classic pub is housed in a heritage building.

It’s difficult to separate the tatted and moustachioed bartenders from the patrons at The Hamilton Station Hotel in the hip hood of Islington. What stands out about this place is not just its Art Deco facade and plethora of plaid-clad punters. It’s the dedication to live music five nights a week. The meat trays, good beer and motley collection of gig-goers make the Hamo one of the best pubs in Newcastle.

Address: 6 Beaumont St, Islington

24. The Maryville Tavern

a meal on the table at The Maryville Tavern, Newcastle — Dine on hearty meals and craft ales.

Newcastle has no shortage of great pubs and the Maryville Tavern is a mainstay. Despite having a nip and tuck a few years back, this 1930s Newcastle pub still does a great job of attracting rusted-on locals. The convivial venue now has a dedicated outdoor bar draped in greenery, which serves great cocktails too. Regular Djs and quiz nights contribute to the lively atmosphere.

Address: 71 Lewis St, Maryville

The best breweries and brewpubs in Newcastle

25. Foghorn Brewery

Foghorn Brewery in Newcastle, NSW — Foghorn is housed in a renovated warehouse. (Image: Destination NSW)

Foghorn Brewery is the contemporary equivalent of an alehouse, serving a selection of craft beers from its restored factory floor that travels straight from the gleaming 1800-litre tanks. Embark on a brewery tour around the Art Deco warehouse to learn about the grain-to-glass brewing process at this Newcastle stalwart.

Address: 218 King St, Newcastle

26. The Rogue Scholar

rooftop drinks at Rogue Scholar Brewing, Newcastle — Enjoy live music and craft beers on the rooftop.

Step inside the dimly lit Rogue Scholar and you’ll find it’s as much about the music and open-mic nights as the beer at this Newcastle brewpub. Grab a pie and an amber ale at the swillhouse in Newcastle West, where the walls are plastered with a hotch-potch of faded posters. There are 12 taps and four handpumps on rotation, plus a great cocktail and wine list too.

Address: 4-6 Union St, Newcastle West

27. Thirsty Messiah

The Steel City continues to attract people with ideas, enthusiasm and perseverance. Why waddle to a corporate job in Sydney dressed like a penguin when you can do something you love and have a better work-life balance in Newcastle? We prophesise you will be spending a lot of time at the Thirsty Messiah , heaven on Earth for those who love an amber ale. Enjoy great beers brewed onsite along with handmade sourdough pizza.

Address: 140 Lambton Rd, Broadmeadow

28. Modus

friends enjoying beer at Modus Brewing, Newcastle — There are plenty of craft beer taps on offer at Modus. (Image: Destination NSW)

You will soak up a sense of what Newcastle is all about when you mingle with Newcastle’s craft-beer community at Modus Operandi . The best place to try one of the Modus beers is at its Merewether brewery, which has a strong focus on sustainability. Enjoy everything from zero-carb lagers to pale ales and porters, alongside comforting brewpub grub.

Address: 20 Merewether St, Merewether

29. Method Brewing

Method Brewing knows the way to Novocastrians’ hearts: have ‘Independent Bar & Brewery’ as part of your signage. This brewpub is the favourite local in Islington. While the beers on tap are constantly on rotation, the crowd changes on the regular as word gets out about the brewery that began life as a home-brew shop. There’s a Method to the madness.

Address: 18 Maitland Rd, Islington

30. Grainfed Brewing

the brewery at Grainfed Brewing, Newcastle — Grainfed Brewing has a craft brewery on-site.

Don’t miss the family-run Grainfed Brewing , which has been 10 years in the making. It takes a lot to succeed in a thirsty city like Newcastle, but the MacBeans have taken their time to get the formula right, believing beer and community are ingrained in the Steel City. As well as all-day pale ales, the taphouse offers IPAs, porters, lagers, pilsners and more. Rock-solid toasties and pizzas are also made to order.

Address: 1/52 Young Rd, Lambton

31. Shout Brewing

Bring your mate with short hands and long pockets to Shout Brewing in the hope he gets the hint it’s his turn to buy a round. If he’s feeling uncharacteristically generous, he might even plump for a gorgonzilla pizza. The small-batch brewery is dog and family-friendly, inclusive to everyone from hardened hopheads to budding craft-beer connoisseurs.

Address: 22 Clyde St, Islington

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .