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Best Pub Crawl Balmain
Balmain, a historic harbor village nestled within the Inner West of Sydney, is renowned for its captivating 19th century heritage pubs. From the iconic Paramount to the Peacock Hotel, Balmain’s pub crawl offers a captivating journey of local history, vibrant nightlife and famous beer. Ever wondered why the inns in Balmain have distinctive maritime names? How about the local artisan’s curated drinks menu? Discover more iconic establishments with this ultimate guide to the best Balmain pub crawl.
What is a Pub Crawl?
Pub crawling, or pubbing, is a recreational activity involving travelling from one pub to another for the purpose of drinking. It has become increasingly popular with tourists and locals alike in the thriving harbor village of Balmain. Unlike other nightlife venues, pub crawls offer a unique insight into the village’s culture and charm while unwinding with friends.
The concept of pub crawls began in London centuries ago. As long distance travel became easier, pubs became convenient meeting places to socialize and exchange knowledge. In Balmain, the pubs are decorated with memorable memorabilia that reflect the long-standing traditions of the village.
Benefits of Pub Crawling in Balmain
There are many benefits to pub crawling in Balmain:
- Discover local entertainment- pubs are well-known for lounging, pool tables and karaoke
- Experience local musicians- check out live music from resident DJs, musicians and bands
- Sample delicious local cuisine- pubs often serve signature dishes, as well as tasty bar snacks
- Try out local beers and wines- take advantage of the curated drinks selection from local brewers and wineries
- Take part in interesting conversations- enjoy the conversations between local residents and tourists over a pint
- Explore a unique atmosphere- pubs vary in size and shape, offering an intimate vibe or a cool hangout spot
Balmain Historic Pub Walking Tour with Beer or Wine
Are you looking for an organised tour to explore Balmain’s top pubs? The Balmain Historic Pub Walking Tour with Beer or Wine is an excellent option to experience Balmain’s thriving nightlife culture. This memorable tour offers satisfying insider knowledge, live music sessions and exclusive beer or wine tastings.
The tour is designed to explore Balmain’s captivating 19th century inns, from friendly pubs along Darling Street to hidden gems in the historical laneways of Balmain. The knowledgeable guides on this tour can answer questions about colonial pubs and the beer or wine you are sampling.
The tour includes three complimentary beer or wine tastings and an optional snack break, if you’d like to enjoy something substantial throughout the 2-hours experience. The tastings are served at each pub and restaurant along the way, including cafe stops with coffee and delicious bar snacks. To end your night in style,you can enjoy a selection of craft beers from celebrated local breweries.
Popular Pubs in Balmain
As one of Sydney’s most delightful neighborhoods, it comes as no surprise that there are plenty of popular pubs in the area to try out. Here we list some of the top pubs in Balmain for you to explore either solo or on a pub crawl.
The Paragon
This charming 19th century pub is located on Darling Street, not too far from Dalley Street wharf. It is one of the oldest pubs near Sydney Harbor, featuring atmospheric wooden floors, cozy leather sofas and an outdoor beer garden. With a selection of beer on tap and an excellent wine list available, this pub is worth exploring during your visit.
The Exchange Hotel
Situated opposite The Paragon Hotel at the end of Darling Street awaits The Exchange Hotel; another historic 19th century inn nestled among boutique shops, cafes and art galleries. This popular hotel offers classic pub items such as parmas and classic chips, as well as modern pizzas and salads for those looking for something lighter without compromising deliciousness. What’s more, The Exchange Hotel has a roof terrace with scenic harbor views.
The Peacock Hotel
The Peacock Hotel is positioned as one of Sydney’s most beautiful heritage buildings with a bar that was originally built in 1895. Enjoy its amazing terrace with views of White Bay from the sun deck or have a seat inside its well-preserved wood hall that still retains some of its original features such as ceiling roses and heritage fireplaces. With mesmerizing interiors and plenty of beers on tap, this hotel is one of the city’s most enchanting breweries.
Other Things to Do in Balmain
If you’re looking for other things to do apart from pub crawling during your stay in Balmain, we recommend exploring some of these activities.
Adventures at Balmain Water Sports
Put your water skills to test with paddle boards or kayaks at Balmain Water Sports. Embrace the beautiful scenery while getting active at this watersports centre which offers beginner courses at all levels from customers aged 12 years old and up. If you’re lucky, you may even spot dolphins near Sydney Harbor during your journey!
Gorilla Circus Classes at Pop Up Playground
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Unleash your playful spirit at Pop Up Playground – a weekly circus class led by circus arts professionals for all ages. Gorilla Circus Classes focuses on creating engaging games and fun-filled activities indoors and outdoors such as clowning around, acrobatics and more.
Gourmet Pizza & Wine Tour at Balmain Wine Co.
Get ready to indulge your taste buds! This tour by Balmain Wine Co. will allow you to savor all sorts of flavors while exploring locally crafted wines paired with premium gourmet pizzas. During the two hour experience, professional guides will engage customers on an interactive culinary adventure through social tastings held in select pubs around Balmain.
Heritage Walks: Working-Class History of Balmain
Discover centuries worth of captivating stories during this Heritage Walk by Balmain Association Town Hall Audio Limited (BATHA). Led by experienced historians dressed as Victorian men or women ready to answer any questions about old Alexandria Town Hall or Balmain’s graveyard, this walk takes place at locations within reach from Parramatta Road towards Iron Cove Bay.
Experience top pubs around Balmain with an organised pub tour that offers an epic journey into maritime history! The Balmain Historic Pub Walking Tour with Beer or Wine, hosted by professional guides, embraces all aspects of Balmain’s traditional culture including alcohol samples in renowned pubs, live music sessions and plenty of insightful stories into this bustling harbor village.
