Perth Pub Crawl

We’re kicking off the list with an establishment that has stood proudly since 1902, the Claremont Hotel, an iconic cornerstone of the Western Suburbs, which has had an extensive rejuvenation. The reimagined space is nothing short of remarkable, with additions like a fresh bistro, a serene courtyard, indoor-outdoor terraces that blur the line between inside and out, play zones for the little ones, a sports bar for the enthusiasts, and a luxuriant rooftop bar that is a treat under starry skies.

The original charm of the hotel’s rich history is seamlessly reflected in the venue’s aesthetics, where lots of greenery complement hints of terrazzo and timber. The pub’s timeless elegance houses the culinary genius of executive chef Telina Menzies and head chef Nick Trezise. The menu boasts reimagined rooster rolls and chicken parms while venturing into more extravagant territory with offerings like caviar bumps and Akoya oysters. Esteemed author and sommelier Matt Skinner has meticulously curated a wine list that boasts affordable excellence, and of course, there are plenty of cold brews to choose from as well.

Perched right on the shore with front-row seats to the beach, the appropriately named Scarborough Beach Bar is one of Perth’s ultimate summer hotspots. The menu is a bit of a standout here, with shared plates, vibrant salads, mouthwatering burgers and pizzas; you can expect mind-benders like caramel miso and ginger salsa, Japanese fried chicken tacos with kewpie wasabi mayo and much more.

If you are, in fact, planning a pub crawl, you might want to consider starting the day with breakfast on the venue’s balcony. Smashed avo and crumpets on the beach before drinks? Quench your thirst with a range of on-tap and tinnie options, a variety of wine and rosé choices and concoctions like spritzes and cocktails. If you love a pub with a view, this one’s for you.

Every good pub-crawl, or at the very least pub-crawl list, needs an Irish Pub. In Perth, our first Irish option (there will be another further down) is The Galway Hooker, where the perfect pint of Guinness or finest of Irish whiskey can be paired with authentic pub food and some good old Irish hospitality.

The menu features some Galway Bay-inspired dishes with some Australian contemporary pub classics. You’ll be able to chow down while watching the game or Perth’s finest live music every weekend. If Guinness isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other local and imported beers to work your way through here while you have a roaring good time.

It’s not Beverly Hills 90210; it’s the Scarborough Esplanade version of The Peach Pit, the locals’ most beloved Sunday session spot. Recognisable by its ivy-green walls, irresistibly charming booths, lofty round tables, vibrant murals, and playful neon accents, you can work your way through the arcade games as you venture through the drinks list.

The cocktail list borders on brilliance, and the burger creations (with brilliant vegan options) are not to be overlooked. Pair one with some mac ‘n’ cheese bites or the indulgent loaded curly fries, and get ready for flavour fun. The Peach Pit is a great beachside rendezvous for a couple of quenchers, so grab Brandon, Dylan, Kelly and the gang and swing on down.

We promised there would be another Irish pub on our list, and Durty Nelly’s is it! Designed and constructed in Ireland, then transported to Shafto Lane, you can’t get much more authentic than this! Try Ireland’s golden beef and Guinness pie or a Sunday roast perfectly paired with a pint of Guinness or cheeky whiskey.

The mouthwatering menu is just one of the many reasons to get down to this pub, which has plenty of live sports from around the world, live music, happy hours and much more. Needless to say, St. Patrick’s Day is almost a supernatural experience here, but every day is a good day at Nelly’s!

Market Grounds can be found within King’s Square as part of the Perth City Link development. This contemporary pub experience boasts a ground-level main Market Bar and a 75-seat restaurant, an intimate landing with plush seating above, and a second-level function space accommodating up to 200 patrons, complete with its own bar.

Crafted by esteemed design firm Woods Bagot, the interior showcases a chic kitsch vibe with pastel accents, distinct wallpapers, comfy leather lounges, and a mix of lime and blue rattan chairs adorning wooden tables. Outside, two alfresco areas sprawl across 220 square meters, garnished with lemon and apple trees and an array of herbs. This nod to its market heritage is underscored by a mobile bar for busier days.

The restaurant menu features share-style plates, with each dish aligning with its respective “vendor” category (baker, fishmonger, butcher), paying homage to the site’s history. The bar offers wood-fired pizzas, upscale versions of traditional pub fare, along with an impressive lineup of beverages, including 18 taps! This is a true upmarket pub experience, pun very much intended.

The Generous Squire can be found at the junction of Murray Street and Shafto Lane in Perth’s CBD, and the perfect spot for a laid-back afternoon weekend sesh or lively after-work social scenario. The Squire effortlessly blends style with a touch of playful charm and is the only full-working brewing operation in the heart of the CBD.

Their first brew creation, Shafto’s Reward, an English Bitter Ale, is a must-try, and there are plenty of other exciting flavours to discover on the beer menu. The captivating interior encompasses dark wood, stone, and stainless steel decor that pays homage to James Squire’s intriguing history as a convict and Australia’s inaugural brewer.

The Upper Lounge and Roof Terrace Bar, the city’s first of its kind, boasts scenic CBD views, and you can also head downstairs to the terraced area, beer garden, and restaurant. Enjoy live, relaxed acoustic melodies during the day and livelier tunes at night, and be sure to explore the diverse menu, catering to both the ravenous and the peckish.

Thanks to its impressive $7 million renovation, the cherished Bassendean Hotel is a must-visit. The revamped venue features inviting courtyards, lush outdoor bars, a cutting-edge sports bar and a playground for full family enjoyment. All of these extras manage to maintain the heritage and character of the 90+-year-old structure as well!

The Bassendean Hotel has six bars to choose from, including the Saloon Bar, decorated with historical imagery overseen by local historian Jennie Carter. The family-friendly courtyard and playground overlook Old Perth Road, and Connelly’s Sports Bar is the spot to catch the game.

You can also head to Daphne’s Snug, an intimate space honouring historical gatherings of women in private pub rooms, and The Club Room, a sprawling lounge for communal hangs.

The bright and stylish Raffles Hotel on the banks of the Swan River in Applecross has an art deco fit-out and riverside beer garden that is a winner with the locals. The diverse menu features pub classics with a modern Italian influence, and pretty much everything coming from the charcoal oven (like the famous Raffles pizzas) is a must-try.

There’s always plenty happening, from happy hours to high teas and more, but above all of the fanfare, this is a great place to sit by the water and sip on something delicious.

With all of these great pubs in Perth, we had to include the Cobblers Tavern, which is known for its friendly team, delicious food and a great atmosphere. There is always some local music, live sports in the sports bar and a communal vibe that pulls in locals and visitors alike.

The menu is full of fresh local produce and is designed for casual dining, quick snacks, and grazing with your crew. If you want to experience the friendliest pub in Perth, this is likely it.