January 29, 2026

20 Venues to Have a Drink in Newcastle

Step outside and make the most of the warmer weather at some of these iconic venues perfect for springtime catch-ups.

Number One

THE BENNETT HOTEL, HAMILTON

With its expansive gazebo and leafy beer garden, The Bennett is made for long lunches, sunlit after-work catch-ups and weekend sessions that stretch late into the evening.

Number Two

THE COMMONWEALTH HOTEL, COOKS HILL

Lovingly nicknamed “the Commy,” this neighbourhood favourite blends sport, live

entertainment and a family-friendly feel in classic pub style.

Number Three

THE PRINCE OF MEREWETHER, MEREWETHER

Whether you’re chasing atmosphere or a laid-back pint, The Prince delivers with street-front views and a crowd that always feels like locals.

Number Four

THE CLARENDON HOTEL, NEWCASTLE

Next to the Civic Theatre, The Clarendon’s leafy courtyard is a natural stop for a pre-show glass of wine or a post-performance nightcap

Number Five

THE HAMILTON STATION HOTEL, HAMILTON

Known to regulars as “the Hamo,” this spacious beer garden offers plenty of room to settle in, perfect for a quiet schooner or a big night with friends.

Number Six

LAMBTON PARK HOTEL, LAMBTON

Steps from the green expanse of Lambton Park, Lambton Park Hotel is all about easy afternoons, hearty pub fare and a relaxed drink with friends. It’s a true local’s local.

Number Seven

QUEENS WHARF HOTEL, NEWCASTLE

For a sun-soaked afternoon by the water, Queens Wharf is hard to beat. Cold beers, harbour breezes, and a Newcastle institution at its best.

Number Eight

WICKHAM PARK HOTEL, ISLINGTON

With its leafy beer garden and vibrant atmosphere, “the Wicko,” is a go-to for spring afternoons that turn into lively nights.

Number Nine

THE HONEYSUCKLE HOTEL, NEWCASTLE

With the best harbourside view in Newcastle, The Honeysuckle Hotel has a wide selection of delicious cocktails and beers to quench your thirst by the water.

Number Ten

MODUS MEREWETHER, MEREWETHER

Modus is where sun-drenched afternoons meet small-batch brews, best enjoyed in their airy, contemporary space.

Number Eleven

CUSTOMS HOUSE HOTEL, NEWCASTLE

A grand landmark on the foreshore, Customs offer old-world charm alongside modern hospitality, an elegant backdrop for a casual drink.

Number Twelve

THE LUCKY HOTEL, NEWCASTLE

With its buzzing beer garden and live music lineup, The Lucky is local staple where the drinks flow as freely as the conversation.

Number Thirteen

THE TORONTO HOTEL, TORONTO

Lake Macquarie stretches before you at The Toronto Hotel, where waterfront views, relaxed tunes and a cold beer make for an idyllic escape.

Number Fourteen

MEREWETHER SURF HOUSE, MEREWETHER

Few places rival Merewether Surf house’s rooftop for ocean views — best enjoyed with a sea breeze, good company, and a refreshing cocktail in hand.

Number Fifteen

ROOFTOP AT QT, NEWCASTLE

Chic, polished and undeniably cool, QT’s rooftop bar pairs inventive cocktails with sweeping city skyline views, making it Newcastle’s most stylish sip spot.

Number Sixteen

CHARLIE’S ROOFTOP BAR

Hidden on Hunter Street, Charlie’s Rooftop is a lush oasis with coastal-inspired interiors and a cocktail list that’s as vibrant as the space itself.

Number Seventeen

GINGER MEGS, NEWCASTLE

Bold and playful, Ginger Megs mixes Asian-fusion eats with creative cocktails in a space splashed with colour and personality.

Number Eighteen

GRANDDAD’S BAR, NEWCASTLE

Grandad’s Bar is a cosy speakeasy-style hideaway, offering expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, retro-inspired setting.

Number Nineteen

THE ROGUE SCHOLAR, NEWCASTLE WEST

A haven for craft beer lovers, Rogue Scholar offers rotating taps, quirky character and a laid-back vibe.

Number Twenty

SON OF A GUN, HAMILTON

Son of a Gun transforms from café by day to moody bar by night, offering an inventive drinks menu in the heart of Beaumont Street.

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