Amidst the picturesque landscapes of Victoria’s Yarra Valley, a haven of Yarra Valley pubs awaits, each embracing the region’s unique blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary excellence. Beyond the renowned vineyards and sweeping vistas, the Yarra Valley boasts an inviting array of pubs, some even dog-friendly. These Yarra Valley pubs are more than mere establishments; they are chapters in the region’s story, offering convivial gatherings, delectable fare, and panoramic views that stretch to the horizon.
If you’ve been to the Yarra Valley before, or at the very least have done your research, you’d well and truly know that Victoria’s Yarra Valley is known for one thing—wine.
But don’t let what it says on the box fool you. While the Yarra Valley’s rolling hills and climate make it ideal for growing grapes, it’s also stocked with beautiful towns and villages that are home to some of the best pubs in Victoria.
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The Yarra Valley is just an hour’s drive from the big smoke of Melbourne. The Valley, carved out over thousands of years by the Yarra River (Birr-arrung), is home to more than eighty wineries, known especially for chardonnay, and pinot noir. The largest towns you’ll find in the region are Healesville, Yarra Glen, and Warburton—with plenty of other great places to stop along the way. Along with most of the length of the Yarra River, the Yarra Valley and Ranges were home to the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation.
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Healesville Hotel
Healesville
The Healesville Hotel dates back to 1912, and in 2023 saw months of careful restorations take place unveiling a fresh interior and a menu. Publicans Matt Vero and Scott Connolly—co-owners of The Orrong Hotel in Armadale—lovingly restored this cherished gem, paying respect to its past as well as making sure it still fit the needs of the Healesville community.
Punters can expect an array of experiences, from the homely bistro dining room to the welcoming public bar and iconic beer garden, now with a kids’ play area to enhance its family-friendly appeal. Accompanying this rejuvenation is chef Ella Stevens, who has curated a bistro and pub menu infused with an elevated Italian twist, celebrating seasonality and local produce.
You’ll find a local-leaning wine list, regional beers, and spirits. With 10 cosy rooms available year-round, Healesville Hotel is not just a place to dine but also a destination for those seeking a culinary escape or a base for exploring the wonders of the Yarra Valley.
Find out more about Healesville Hotel here.
Yarra Valley Grand Hotel
Yarra Glen
The Yarra Valley Grand Hotel stands as a testament to history and hospitality. Built in 1888, this iconic landmark exudes charm and serves as a welcoming retreat for travellers and locals alike.
With 10 guest rooms, a multi-level tower suite, and the Manager’s House and pool, it caters to a variety of preferences. The kitchen and bar, dish out modern Australian cuisine emphasising local produce. And if you fancy a bit of sun on the top of your head, the Beer Garden offers a perfect setting for people-watching or even a game of lawn bowls.
Find out more about the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel here.
Coldstream Brewery
Coldstream
Coldstream Brewery is a craft beer and local legend. In my opinion, Coldstream Brewery pours the best apple cider in Victoria.
Established in 2007 by lifelong best friends Rohan Peters and Mike Bassett, the brewery delivers a ripping array of beers, including Pale Ales, IPAs, Stouts, and Porters, as well as a range of ciders, all brewed with locally sourced ingredients.
While in the taproom, you can embark on a tasting adventure featuring the brewery’s diverse brews or savour a meal prepared with an emphasis on regional produce at the on-site restaurant.
Find out more about Coldstream Brewery here.
Launching Place Home Hotel
Set up beside the Yarra River in Launching Place, the Launching Place Home Hotel was constructed in 1899, and has remained under the stewardship of a single devoted family for more than half a century.
Whether you’re after a casual drink, a hearty lunch, or a dinner with friends and family, the Home Hotel is a great spot to take a load off. The bistro menu blends classic pub favourites with modern dishes, and the bar has a great selection of beers on tap, wines, and spirits. Outside you’ll find a spacious beer garden and the pub is situated on the Warburton Rail Trail which makes it the perfect spot to chill out after a hard day on two wheels.
Find out more about the Launching Place Home Hotel here.
Warburton Hotel
Wesburn
The Warburton Hotel—aka the Sam Knott Hotel—is a historic gem, dating back to 1863, and listed as a heritage site. Originally known as the Wesburn Hotel, it took on its current name in 1910.
This two-story establishment, adorned with a distinctive verandah, has seen several expansions over the years, evolving to include a bistro, a friendly bar, and a spacious beer garden. The pub is allegedly the location of the famous Carlton and United Brewery poster with the phrase ‘I allus has wan at eleven’ uttered by local man Sam Knott.
Find out more about the Warburton Hotel here.
The Watering Hole Tavern
Monbulk
The Watering Hole Tavern offers a wide selection of beers on tap, complemented by a choice of wines and spirits. Its bistro menu boasts a blend of classic pub favourites and contemporary dishes to satisfy every palate.
For those who prefer to enjoy a can outdoors, there’s plenty of space in the beer garden.
The Watering Hole Tavern offers an incredible menu with an ever-changing specials menu. It covers everything from pasta, to wood-fired pizzas and pub classics.
Find out more about The Watering Hole Tavern.
Cunninghams Hotel
Yarra Junction
Cunninghams Hotel is a historic pub that has had many lives—previously being a boarding house, wine saloon, and a fine dining restaurant. Over the years, the hotel has grown to accommodate the needs of both locals and tourists, expanding to include a bistro, bar, and an inviting beer garden.
Cunninghams Hotel is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and delectable pub cuisine, which artfully combines classic favourites with a modern twist. The hotel is also a hub for live music and is located opposite the Yarra Valley Rail Trail.
Find out more about Cunninghams Hotel here.
