In our charming capital, there are far few opportunities to engage in the history of post-colonial Australia. Fortunately, The Old Canberra Inn – built in 1857 – provides a beautiful snapshot of life before Canberra even existed.

Once surrounded by sheep paddocks and streams, The Old Canberra Inn is now nestled on the fringes of the city’s inner north. The low-slung roof provides an initial feeling of cosiness and comfort and signals the mood and atmosphere of the much-loved pub inside.

With a warm fireplace, a huge beer garden and a children’s play area, it’s always a good time to drop in for a beer or a glass of wine. Also, the kitchen provides a delicious and high-quality range of pub food. Modern offerings include Buffalo Wings,  pan fried kangaroo and even a vegetarian lasagne,  as well as traditional favourites such as beer-battered fish and a collection of amazing grass fed steaks cooked to perfection.

In keeping with the sense of tradition, the cute little bar has eight beer taps, all of which feature craft brews. Local Capital Brewing beer is available and reinforces the pub as part of the Canberra community.

The pub offers a variety of $15.00 lunches and a weekday Happy Hour from 4.00pm – 6.00pm. Take the edge of a working day with $5.00 schooners of Capital Trail Pale Ale and half a kilo of free-range Buffalo Wings for $7.00. There’s no doubt that the Old Canberra Inn is considered a local by many, and those sort of prices ensure that it’s easy to drop in a few times a week without breaking the budget.