There’s something extra special about a country pub, don’t you think?
I s it the warmth? The character? The wholesome sense of community? Or perhaps it’s just that friendly nod from a local as you walk in the door. Whatever it is, they certainly have their own unique charm. Be it a historic watering hole serving no-fuss pub fare or a modern establishment offering top-tier food and wine, the South East is home to some of the best in the biz. If you’re planning a road trip through the region, these five pubs deserve a spot on your itinerary…
Swanport Hotel
A local favourite with something for everyone.
Just outside Murray Bridge, the Swanport Hotel strikes the perfect balance between country charm and modern hospitality. The bistro offers classic pub food with a contemporary twist, while the front bar is the ideal spot for a laid-back beer, a round of pool and a yarn with the locals. Their all-South Australian wine list lets you sip your way through some of the state’s best drops. And if you’re keen on a midweek feed, the rotating nightly specials make it an easy choice. Plus, for those on the go, their takeaway menu has you covered.
Address :: 3166 Jervois Road, Murray Bridge
Image Credit :: Swanport Hotel
Woolshed Inn
Where history and hospitality unite.
Dating back to 1852, the Woolshed Inn isn’t just a pub — it’s part of Bordertown’s history! With comfortable country-style accommodation, it’s the ideal place to stop, stay and play. The bar serves up tasty eats, great tunes and weekly cocktail specials, best enjoyed over a game of pool or while kicking back on the new beer deck. Meanwhile, the expansive dining room dishes out everything from classic pub grub to expertly-crafted local lamb and beef specialties. Whether you’re after a hearty meal, a pizza in the beer garden or a cosy overnight stay, the Woolshed Inn delivers genuine country hospitality at its best.
Address :: 101 Woolshed Street, Bordertown
Image Credit :: Woolshed Inn
Royal Oak
A wine lover’s dream
Set in the heart of the Coonawarra Wine Region, the Royal Oak Penola is a must-visit for food and wine lovers. Its award-winning seasonal menu highlights the best of fresh, local produce, and with winemakers often choosing to dine here, you can bet the wine list is something special! While Coonawarra’s finest drops take centre stage, there are plenty of interstate and international options to explore as well. Their Tuesday curry night is a standout — pair it with a glass of red in the revamped, heated beer garden, perfect for those cosy winter nights. And if you find your favourite drop in the bottleshop next door, a small corkage fee allows you to enjoy it with your meal.
Address :: 31 Church Street, Penola
Image Credit :: Royal Oak
Bushman’s Arms Hotel
A true blue country classic.
Ask a local where to go in Naracoorte and they’ll likely point you to ‘Bushie’s’. The Bushman’s Arms Hotel has been a community staple for over 160 years, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu that hits the spot. The main bar is stocked with wines that showcase the Coonawarra region and the front sports bar is a prime spot to catch a game over a cold beer. With a wellstocked bottle shop next door and live entertainment lighting up Saturday nights, Bushie’s is proof that some pubs just get better with age!
Address :: 20 Robertsons Street, Naracoorte
Image Credit :: Bushman’s Arms Hotel
Prince of Wales Hotel-Motel
Classic pub fare done right.
Affectionately known as the ‘POW’, the Prince of Wales is another Penola pub serving high-quality pub food in a relaxed, welcoming setting. The menu caters for every palate, from juicy steaks and schnitzels to crispy duck spring rolls and fresh house-made pizzas. There’s even a dedicated plant-based selection, making it a great choice for vegetarians and anyone after a lighter option. Families will love the kid-friendly menu, which comes with a drink and ice cream while sports fans can catch all the action on seven big-screen TVs. In a hurry? Their delicious takeaway menu is perfect for a quick feed. And with a carefully curated wine list that goes beyond the usual pub selection, the POW is an easy choice for a great meal and a quality drop.
Address :: 58 Church Street, Penola
Image Credit :: Prince of Wales Hotel-Motel
From historic icons to new-age favourites, these country pubs all bring something special to the table. If you want to experience award-winning food, impressive wine lists, or just some good old-fashioned pub grub, the South East has a pub to satisfy. Next time you’re in the region, stop in, pull up a chair and embrace the warmth of true country hospitality.
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