Top Aussie Bars for Watching The Ashes

Australian cricket fans can catch all the Ashes action at one of these great bars and pubs. 

Coogee Pavilion, Sydney 

This hip yet casual eatery boasts a theatrette, dedicated pizzeria helmed by chef Vincenzo Biondini and a prime position by one of Sydney’s most recognisable beaches. Catch the game on the big screen or head upstairs to Coogee Pavilion’s buzzy rooftop bar.

169 Dolphin St, Coogee | +61 2 9240 3000

The Sheaf, Sydney 

This beloved eastern suburbs local hotel features TV screens in its downstairs bar and a courtyard bistro. Fuel up before the first ball with Cracker Jack chicken lollipops or ham hock and potato croquettes. Expect big crowds and a great atmosphere on Wednesday and Thursday nights.

429 New South Head Road, Double Bay | +61 2 9327 5877 

The Bridge Hotel, Melbourne 

A cobblestone laneway runs through the centre of this corner pub, leading revellers from an American diner to a lounge bar upstairs. Settle in for the first day’s play (Wednesday, July 8), which also coincides with steak and parma night (Tuesdays and Wednesdays). 

642 Bridge Road, Richmond | +61 3 9429 5734

The Duke of Wellington, Melbourne 

It may be one of Melbourne’s longest-standing pubs, but The Duke of Wellington is anything but old-fashioned. Large screens throughout the venue make it a popular choice for cricket fans. Take your pick from 22 beers on tap or choose from a solid list of whisky.  

146 Flinders Street, Melbourne | +61 3 9810 0066

Public Bar, Canberra 

Arrive here with an appetite. Public’s contemporary lineup of dishes – such as osso bucco fajitas and grilled Yamba prawns – has earned it a loyal following. You’ll want to get in early for a seat by the fireplace – a prime position for cricket-watching.

Corner Flinders Way and Franklin Street, Manuka | + 61 2 6161 8808

Breakfast Creek Hotel, Brisbane 

Breakfast Creek Hotel has long been hailed a Brisbane favourite, with five bars, a Spanish steakhouse and a tropical beer garden. If that wasn’t enough to grab your attention, grab a beer “off the wood” – poured from the pub’s wooden casks, instead of steel kegs – and toast to the Aussies. 

2 Kingsford Smith Drive, Breakfast Creek | +61 7 3262 5988

Stock Exchange Hotel, Brisbane 

Stock Exchange Hotel has been brought back to life with the revamp of its rooftop terrace. The venue now offers a refined bistro menu – think pork belly with rum-baked apple – cocktails and an impressive local wine list. Get in early; its inner-city locale means it’s popular with CBD workers.  

131 Edward Street, Brisbane | +61 7 3229 3522

Woolly Mammoth Alehouse, Brisbane 

Brisbane hot spot Woolly Mammoth Alehouse offers a wide selection of craft beer and late-night grazing menu to get you through the Tests. Try the 16-hour braised beef short ribs or lamb meatball sub. The venue is also a great place to catch local and international live music.

633 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley | +61 7 3257 4439

The Lion Hotel, Adelaide 

This is not your average pub. Nestled on the former Lion Brewery site, which dates back to the 1870s, today you’ll find a sophisticated award-winning bar and restaurant that’s popular with locals and visitors.

161 Melbourne Street, North Adelaide | +61 8 8367 0222

Matisse Beach Club, Perth 

Located in the heart of the Scarborough beach foreshore, Matisse Beach Club offers a fantastic setting for groups watching cricket. There are private cabanas equipped with personal television screens; book ahead to reserve one of these six poolside havens. Elsewhere, floor-to-ceiling windows, striking white furniture and pops of bright colours give the venue a stylish, relaxed vibe that suits its beachside setting. 

148 The Esplanade, Scarborough | +61 8 9245 2000     

Customs House Hotel, Hobart 

Its repute as the chophouse rings true with dishes such as beef ragout pot pie and steak of the day with potato gratin, but there’s plenty more to like about the heritage-listed Customs House Hotel in Hobart. An extensive wine list and open fires inside and out should keep you warm and toasty as you get set for the day’s innings. 

1 Murray Street, Hobart | +61 3 6234 6645

Image: The Bridge Hotel