The Rocks Pub Crawl Map: Best Pubs & Bars Guide Sydney

Discover the hidden history of Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood, one pint at a time. This self-guided pub crawl through The Rocks offers a unique blend of history and good times. From convict-era watering holes to modern craft beer havens, you’ll experience a taste of Sydney’s past with every sip. Choose your own adventure – explore all twelve of these pubs, or create a shorter crawl to suit your pace.

This guide will help you navigate The Rocks’ pub scene, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a craft beer lover, or simply looking for a fun night out.

The Rocks Pub Crawl Map

This interactive map shows all 12 historic pubs in The Rocks, with the recommended route marked. Save it to your phone before you head out, or screenshot it for easy reference while you’re exploring.

Best Pubs in The Rocks For:

Harbour Views

• Glenmore Hotel – Rooftop views of the Opera House
• Harbour View Hotel – Best Harbour Bridge views in The Rocks
• Hotel Palisade – 360-degree harbour and city views, perfect for sunset

Live Music

• The Mercantile – Irish music Thursday to Sunday
• The Orient Hotel – Live music seven days a week
• Fortune of War – Regular live music and biggest Anzac Day celebration
• Hero of Waterloo – Jazz, folk, soul and R&B on weekends

Craft Beer

• Australian Heritage Hotel – 140+ Australian craft beers, 20 on tap
• Lord Nelson – On-site brewery with six house-brewed ales
• Harts Pub – 12 rotating craft beer taps

Quick Route Overview:

• Full crawl: 12 pubs, approximately 3-4 hours walking time (plus drinking time!)
• Short crawl: Hit the “Big 3” – Fortune of War, Australian Heritage Hotel, and Lord Nelson (1.5 hours)
• Best for views: Glenmore (Opera House), Harbour View (Harbour Bridge), Palisades (360° harbour views)

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Updated February 2, 2026: While we have updated this content today some details, including opening hours, prices and events, may have changed when you read this. It’s always a good idea to check the pub’s website or social media for the latest information.

History of Pubs in The Rocks in Sydney

The Rocks is Sydney’s oldest European settlement, and it’s always had more than its fair share of pubs. In the 1800s, there was a pub on nearly every corner serving convicts, sailors and merchants who worked the docks.

Many disappeared after the 1900 bubonic plague outbreak, but a dozen historic pubs still stand today. Each one has its own story to tell, from smuggling tunnels to shanghaied sailors.

Before we hit the pubs, let’s answer a few questions:

Which Pub is Actually the Oldest in The Rocks?

The title of “oldest pub in The Rocks” (and Sydney) is hotly debated, with three pubs each claiming the crown. Here’s what each pub says:

The Lord Nelson claims to be Australia’s oldest continuously licensed pub brewery. Built in 1836 and licensed in 1841, it’s been operating in the same location ever since. Their argument: continuous operation in one spot since 1841.

The Fortune of War was licensed in 1830 and has existed in some form since 1823. However, it closed for renovations in the 1920s before reopening on the same site. Their argument: earliest license date.

The Australian Heritage Hotel was originally established on George Street in 1824 but moved to its current Cumberland Street location in 1900 after the bubonic plague outbreak. Their argument: earliest establishment date, even though they relocated.

My take? The Lord Nelson has the strongest claim for continuous operation in one location. But the Fortune of War has the earlier license. Visit all three and decide for yourself!

Why are bars in Australia called pubs?

Before the 1830s, anyone could sell drinks from their home. With the introduction of licensing laws, these establishments became known as “public houses,” required to offer accommodation and meals as well as drinks.

Aussies, being fond of abbreviations, shortened “public house” to “pub.” The “hotel” in many names reflects the original lodging requirement.

Now, let’s plan your Rocks pub crawl adventure!

The Rocks Pub Crawl Route

This pub crawl takes you on a winding journey through The Rocks, starting with the lively Fortune of War and ending at the historic Lord Nelson. The route is designed to be walkable, with estimated walking times between each stop.

Feel free to adjust the order or skip some based on your interests and stamina.

Stop 1: The Fortune of War (137 George St)

• Why it’s special: A local favorite and Anzac Day hotspot, with a lively atmosphere and regular live music. Claims to be the oldest pub in The Rocks, licensed since 1830.
• Must-try: the Marinated Olives and Hummus is a good way make sure you don’t head off on an empty tummy! Check their menu for more options.
• Atmosphere: Welcoming, historic.
• Estimated time to next stop: 2 minutes.

Stop 2: The Orient Hotel (87-89 George Street)

• Why it’s special: A Rocks landmark with a grand Victorian facade and live music seven days a week.
• Must-try: Cocktails and share plates at Mrs. Jones terrace bar, or a classic pub meal in the downstairs bar. (Check their current menu for the latest offerings.)
• Atmosphere: Lively, historic, with a touch of elegance.
• Estimated time to next stop: 1 minute.

Stop 3: The Observer Hotel (69 George Street)

• Why it’s special: A stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture. Sadly closed at the moment, but worth admiring from the outside.
• Estimated time to next stop: 1 minute.

Stop 4: The Mercantile Hotel (25 George St)

• Why it’s special: Australia’s (self-proclaimed) longest running Irish pub has been trading since 1915. Known for its live Irish music, and a great selection of Irish beers and food. Currently undergoing major renovations.
• Must-try: A pint of Guinness and some traditional Irish stew.
• Atmosphere: Warm, friendly, a bit of craic.
• Estimated time to next stop: 3 minutes.

Stop 5: Harbour View Hotel (18 Lower Fort St)

• Why it’s special: A beautifully restored pub with stunning rooftop views of the Harbour Bridge, plus bridge memorabilia and a cocktail bar.
• Must-try: A cocktail on the rooftop with a view of the bridge.
• Atmosphere: Stylish, modern, with a touch of history.
• Estimated time to next stop: 5 minutes.

Stop 6: Hero of Waterloo (81 Lower Fort Street)

• Why it’s special: A historic pub with a fascinating (and slightly spooky) past, featuring hidden tunnels and convict cells. Live music on weekends.
• Must-try: Ask the staff about the history and see if they’ll show you the cells!
• Atmosphere: Historic, atmospheric, a bit of a hidden treasure.
• Estimated time to next stop: 2 minutes.

Stop 7: Glenmore Hotel (96-98 Cumberland Street)

• Why it’s special: A classic Aussie pub with a popular rooftop bar offering excellent views of the Opera House.
• Must-try: A cold beer on the rooftop while enjoying the view of the Opera House.
• Atmosphere: Lively, friendly, a good mix of locals and tourists.
• Estimated time to next stop: 5 minutes.

Stop 8: Australian Heritage Hotel (100 Cumberland St)

• Why it’s special: A celebration of Australian beer, with over 140 craft brews from around the country – they even have a beer passport!
• Must-try: Sample the coat of arms pizza – half emu & half pepper kangaroo!
• Atmosphere: Lively, patriotic, a great place to taste new brews.
• Estimated time to next stop: 7 minutes.

Stop 9: Lord Nelson (19 Kent St)

• Why it’s special: Australia’s oldest continually licensed pub brewery, with historic ales brewed on-site. A great conclusion to your historical pub crawl!
• Must-try: A sampler paddle of their house-brewed ales and the grilled halloumi cobb salad.
• Atmosphere: Historic, cozy, a genuine taste of old Sydney.

Create Your Own Shorter Pub Crawl

Don’t have time for all 12? Here are three themed routes:

• History Lovers (3 pubs, 1.5 hour): Fortune of War → Hero of Waterloo → Lord Nelson
• View Chasers (3 pubs, 2.5 hours): Harbour View → Glenmore → Palisades
• Craft Beer Trail (4 pubs, 4 hours): Australian Heritage Hotel → Harts Pub → Lord Nelson → Captain Cook.

Still Thirsty? Try these Optional Extras

• Hotel Palisade (35 Bettington St): A stylishly restored pub with a rooftop bar offering harbour views.
• Captain Cook Hotel (33-35 Kent St): A classic local pub with a friendly atmosphere and good pub grub.
• Harts Pub (Corner of Essex & Gloucester Streets): A craft beer haven with a rotating selection of local brews.

Now that you’ve got your route, get ready to explore The Rocks’ pub scene. Each has a story to tell, from hidden tunnels to convict cells, adding a layer of intrigue to your pub crawl adventure.

A History of The Rocks, One Pub at a Time

The Fortune of War: Anzac Day Hotspot

Built in 1828 by Samuel Terry, a former convict who arrived in Sydney with nothing but a sentence for stealing stockings, the Fortune of War is a reflection of the resilience and ambition of early settlers.

A popular Anzac Day gathering spot, the Fortune of War sees veterans congregate after the annual march. If you’re in Sydney on Anzac Day, join the crowds for a tribute and a taste of Aussie camaraderie.

It’s also popular with locals being the closest pub to the ferry wharves, ideal for last-minute drinks.

Enjoy casual dining on the street or head to the “Lock Up” for a more upscale meal.

Where: 137 George St, The Rocks
When: 9 am till midnight most days (can be later on weekends)
More info: Check their website for the menu and what’s on the calendar

Orient Hotel – Victorian Grandeur

The Orient Hotel sits in a grand Victorian building that started life as a butcher shop in 1844. It became a pub in 1851 and went through several name changes (including the Marine Hotel) before settling on the Orient in 1884. The name references the grand steamships that once sailed between Sydney and Asia.

The Orient is one of The Rocks’ most recognisable pubs, mainly because of its size and prime corner position on George Street. It’s also one of the few pubs offering live music seven days a week.

Where: 87-89 George Street
When: 10 am to 3.30 am Friday and Saturday and midnight weekdays
More info: Check the website for more details on events.

Observer Hotel – Art Nouveau Beauty

While now permanently closed, The Observer Hotel building, listed on the NSW Heritage Register, remains a striking example of Art Nouveau architecture and is well worth a quick stop on your pub crawl.

Originally opened as the Observer Tavern in 1844, the current building dates back to 1909. Its distinctive Art Nouveau facade, with its flowing lines, intricate ornamentation and stained-glass windows, is a testament to the architectural trends of the early 20th century. Take a moment to appreciate this beautiful piece of Sydney’s history, even if you can’t step inside for a pint.

Where: 69 George Street, The Rocks

The Mercantile Hotel: A Touch of Ireland

Currently closed for renovation until mid 2026, trading at Four Doors Down until then.

The Mercantile, a Federation Free Style building opened in 1915, claims the title of Australia’s oldest Irish pub. Its tile work and gorgeous wooden bar are worth a visit once renovations are complete.

While the renovation is underway head to “4 Doors Down” which is literally four doors away for all the favourite Merc meals and drinks, including Shamrock Pies and creamy pints of Guinness.

Tip: Monday to Friday, 5-7pm: $10 Pints (Guinness / Stone & Wood / Superdry), $8 select wines, $12 Aperol Spritz

The pub has also been voted Australia’s best Irish pub twice. If you’re craving a Guinness, this is the place to go. They also serve Irish classics like Guinness pie, Irish stew and a full Irish breakfast. Live (mainly Irish) music features from Thursday to Sunday and reasonably priced meals make this a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Where: 25 George St The Rocks
When: 11 am to midnight on weekdays, 10 am opening on weekends.
More info: Check renovation updates here

Harbour View Hotel – Bridge views and Rooftop Breezes

Built in 1922, the Harbour View Hotel, an Inter-war Free Classical style building, quickly became a popular spot for workers on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the city circle railway tunnels. Interestingly, an earlier Harbour View Hotel existed in the 1840s on the site of the current bridge pylon. It was demolished to make way for the bridge’s construction.

Today, the Harbour View Hotel offers stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge from its rooftop bar, an ideal spot to appreciate this iconic landmark.

Bit of trivia – my favourite local 1980s film, Starstruck featured the Harbour View.

Where: 18 Lower Fort St, Dawes Point
When: 11 am- till late
More info: Check the website for menus and events.

The Hero of Waterloo – Convicts, Tunnels and Tall Tales

Built in 1844 by stonemason George Paton (who also built the nearby Garrison Church), the Hero of Waterloo is named after the Duke of Wellington’s famous victory. The sandstone walls are rumoured to have come from the Argyle Cut.

From the start, this was a popular spot for soldiers from the Garrison Church and sailors from the docks at Millers Point. Lower Fort Street is one of the most beautiful streets in The Rocks.

Beneath the pub sits a network of tunnels, rumoured to have been used for smuggling rum and shanghaiing drunks. The story goes that unwary patrons would be locked in basement cells overnight, then wake up press-ganged onto a ship heading overseas.

These days, the Hero is known for its live music in a neighbourhood where quiet pubs are becoming rare. You can catch jazz, folk, soul and R&B performances, usually starting in the afternoon on weekends.

Where: 81 Lower Fort Street, The Rocks
When: Mon-Sat: 11am – 11pm and Sun: Noon – 10pm
More info: Check the website for the full story and music schedule

Glenmore Hotel – Rooftop Views and Local Vibes

Built in 1921 by Tooth and Co. (Brewing), The Glenmore originally stood on the opposite side of the street. It was moved brick by brick to make way for the southern approaches to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Inter-War Georgian Revival building still has many original features, including fireplaces and ornate ceilings restored in 2016.

Today, the Glenmore is a classic Aussie pub with a busy atmosphere, especially Thursday and Friday nights when locals celebrate the end of the work week. The rooftop bar is the main attraction, with views of the Sydney Opera House.

There are some good meal deals here mid week. Currently on offer are $1 wings on Wednesdays and $20 steaks on Thursdays.

Where: 96-98 Cumberland Street, The Rocks
When: 11 am-midnight (1am on Fridays)
More info: Check the website for menu and event information

The Australian Heritage Hotel: A Celebration of Aussie Brews

The Australian Heritage Hotel has been around since 1824 when it first opened on George Street near the Museum of Contemporary Art. It moved to its current Cumberland Street address after the 1900 bubonic plague outbreak, which is why the “oldest pub” debate continues.

Some argue that moving locations disqualifies it. Others say the original establishment date is what counts. What do you think?

If you want to sample Australian beer, this is your spot. They’re serious about Aussie brews, with over 140 craft beers from around the country, including 20 on tap. They even offer a “beer passport” to document your journey through Australian craft brewing.

Tip: For an authentic Aussie food experience, try the crocodile spring rolls or the iconic Coat of Arms pizza, featuring kangaroo and emu.

Experience another classic Aussie tradition – the Friday night pub meat raffle! It’s a fun and social way to support the local community and maybe even take home a prize. Tickets on sale from 5:30pm.

The Edwardian architecture is in excellent condition, with most of the original design and fittings intact. Weekends are busy, especially the outdoor seats with front-row Harbour Bridge views. You can book a room here if you’re planning a big night.

Where: 100 Cumberland St, The Rocks
When: Mon-Sat: 11 am – 11 pm and Sun: Noon – 10pm
More info: Check their website for more information

The Lord Nelson: Australia’s Oldest Pub Brewery

Where: 19 Kent Street The Rocks
When: Mon-Sat: 11 am – 11 pm and Sun: Noon – 10pm
More info: visit the website for details of the menu and brewery.

Hotel Palisade: History and Views

The Hotel Palisade is a five-storey Federation building with history dating back to 1880 when a pub of the same name stood on this corner. The Sydney Harbour Trust built the current structure in 1915, and it became popular with wharfies working in Walsh Bay. It was also known as a good place to pick up some bargain goods.

After being closed for seven years, the hotel had a $5 million restoration and reopened in 2015.

The downstairs Public House bar has kept its original character and is a great spot for lunch after walking around Barangaroo Reserve. Prices are reasonable, with main course salads at $18-20 and burgers at similar prices.

Tip: Happy Hour between 4-6pm Tuesday to Friday

If you are looking for a bed with a view, the rooms at the Palisades are lovely – check the photos here.

Where: 35 Bettington St, Millers Point
When: 12pm–10pm Sun, Tues & Wed, 12pm-11pm Thurs, 12am Fri-Sat. Closed Mondays
More info: Check the hotel’s website for details of the various bars.

The Captain Cook Hotel: A Local Treasure in Millers Point

When The Captain Cook Hotel opened in 1874, it was one of 18 pubs serving Millers Point. By 1928, only six remained, and today just three originals survive: The Lord Nelson, The Hero of Waterloo and The Captain Cook.

Step inside and you’ll likely find yourself chatting with friendly locals—it’s got that neighbourhood pub feel. Local favourites like Young Henrys and Four Pines are usually on tap.

The kitchen is open all day serving burgers and other pub classics. Young Henry’s and Hawkes Lager are on tap.

Tip: If you’re a local or planning an extended stay, check out the pub’s fishing club – a great way to connect with fellow anglers and experience Sydney Harbour from a different perspective.

Where: 33-35 Kent St Millers Point
When:Monday – Saturday: 8am – 11pm, Sunday: 8am – 9:30pm

Harts Pub: Craft Brews and Courtyard Vibes

Harts Pub occupies what was once a grand private estate made up of three two-storey terraces. These buildings survived the demolitions that hit plague-affected areas of The Rocks in 1900.

Harts has an impressive selection of craft beers, with 12 rotating taps showcasing local and Australian breweries. You’ll always find something new to try, from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs.

Tuesday night trivia is popular, and big sports events play on screens around the pub, keeping local workers around after knock-off time.

Tip: Happy hour Monday to Thursday 4.30pm-6.30pm and weekends 3:30pm-5:30pm

The menu features all the pub favourites along with a large selection of share plates.

Where: Corner of Essex & Gloucester Streets The Rocks
When: Sun-Wed: 12pm-12am, Thurs-Sat: 12pm-1am
More info: Check their website for deals and events.

Quick Reference: Best Rocks Pubs by Interest

Best live music pubs in The Rocks The Mercantile (Irish music), The Orient (7 days a week), Fortune of War and Hero of Waterloo all offer regular live music.

Best pubs for Australian craft beer Australian Heritage Hotel (140+ beers), Lord Nelson (on-site brewery) and Harts Pub (rotating taps) have the best selection.

Best pubs in The Rocks with harbour views Glenmore rooftop for Opera House views, Harbour View for Harbour Bridge views, and Palisades for 360-degree sunset views.

Rocks Pub Crawl: Your Questions Answered

Before you head out, here are answers to the most common questions about pub crawling in The Rocks.

Take a Rocks Pub Tour

If you like the idea of getting your general Rocks history with a side of beer, then one of these tours might be just what you are after. They are also great if you travel solo and don’t enjoy drinking alone.

The Rocks Pub Walk

This 2.5-hour walking tour will visit four heritage-listed pubs, including the haunted cellar at the Hero of Waterloo. Taste a local brew at each stop and hear stories of the people and places that will bring the Rocks to life.

The tour is offered three times a day and begins at Hart’s Pub. Get details and prices here.

Plan Your Own Rocks Pub Crawl Adventure

The Rocks has more historic pubs per block than anywhere else in Sydney. Use this guide as a starting point, pick your favourites, and create your own pub crawl. Cheers!