Country Pubs Trail

Step back in time with a visit to an authentic country pub on the Queensland Country Pub Tasting Trail. There are 25 pubs within easy travelling distance from Brisbane and Toowoomba. Time has almost stood still here, and you’ll find history in every footstep. From iconic authors to gold rush prospectors, hear tall tales and true stories around every bar. There’s a warm welcome for visitors matched with a cold beer that perfectly complements that premium local steak. If you are used to barista coffee and organic veggies, we’ve got you covered too! An overnight stay is easy, with plenty of pubs offering authentic in-house accommodation.

Explore Itinerary

1. Bull and Barley Inn, Cambooya

This classic country pub is the real deal, with two stories of 1902 charm and wide verandahs waiting to be discovered. It is no wonder the Bull and Barley Inn is one of Australia’s most photographed pubs. There is everything you need for a country drive with destination dining or an authentic stay right here. Grab a bevy, watch the sun sink behind the silhouetted silos from the verandah, or play a game of pool while waiting for the meat tray raffle to be drawn. Sink your teeth in fresh barramundi, a huge local steak, or South African Bunny Chow. Perch on a high stool at the bar and chat to the friendly locals or chill out while you check the cedar 1930s ice chest that’s now a bar fridge. With a children’s playground within close viewing distance, life is easy. Cambooya is a tiny town that’s famous as the home of author Steele Rudd (Arthur Hoey Davis).

Guru Tip
Book ahead for this busy pub.

Insta Moment
Snap a front shot of this beautifully restored, authentic 1902 pub.

2. Club Hotel Chinchilla, Chinchilla

Behind the classic exterior of the oldest pub in town, Chinchilla’s pride and joy, the Club Hotel is all modern. You’ll find the locals in the public bar, while families prefer the beer garden with its child-friendly playground. Pop in on Friday and Saturday nights for live entertainment or musical bingo on Wednesdays. Their grill sizzles with local grass-fed and grain-fed beef. Stay next door in modern motel units. Chinchilla’s bi-annual Watermelon Festival is the perfect time to visit.

Guru Tip
Go hungry. The servings here are generous.

Insta Moment
Proof of eating a 700g rump steak with a pint of ale.

3. Condamine Hotel, Condamine

Located in the heart of Western Queensland’s cattle territory, the Condamine Hotel is all about meat! So, if you love local steak and lamb, playing darts with friendly locals, and a good yarn, this is your stop. There are just 500 people in the small town of Condamine, but you won’t be short of a warm country welcome here. Run by Andrew Smith, who is also Mayor of Western Downs Regional Council, for 30 years the hotel is full of imposing timber beams, corrugated iron, and rustic charm. Nearby, Caliguel Lagoon is a popular RV-friendly stopping spot for visitors.

Guru Tip
Locals say there’s good fishing in the Condamine River.

Insta Moment
Prove you got this far Outback with a selfie at the front.

4. The Royal Hotel, Goondiwindi

Run by the O’Shea family for nearly 50 years, The Royal Hotel is known for its friendly country atmosphere and good quality bistro food at reasonable prices. You’ll need to walk inside to discover the history here. Take your chance with the meat tray raffle on Fridays and come back on Sunday morning for breakfast. Conveniently located in the main street, this welcoming pub with great service makes a perfect base for exploring the town.

Guru Tip
Must try – Premium Yardstick beef from the local Mungindi.

Insta Moment
Indulge in some plate fantasy with a mouth-watering steak.

5. Darling Downs Hotel (aka Sandy Creek Pub), Allan

Some call it the Darling Downs Hotel however locals know it as the Sandy Creek Pub. Opened in 1866, it was positioned to capture gold fossickers on the route from Warwick to the Taigai Reef Diggings. It was also home to the British sport of pidgeon shooting in 1869. Pull up at this true-blue historic country hotel just outside Warwick. Have a chat with publicans Kevin and Kayleen Kiley or their daughters who you will see in behind the bar or in the kitchen. Then cue up the balls on the pool table with a cracking shot or try your skills next door on the go-cart track. The pub rocks with live music and monthly pig on a spit. Find your spot to relax on the verandah or in the beer garden. Camp out the back for free.

Guru Tip
The annual pig races every March draw huge crowds.

Insta Moment
A sunset shot with a classic car parked against the heritage facade.

6. Rudds Pub, Nobby

Australian history comes alive in Rudds Pub, renowned as the place where author Steele Rudd penned his famous Dad & Dave stories. Established in 1893, this pub has retained its classic style with rustic charm and an original fireplace. When you’ve finished browsing the walls, sit down for some home-cooked food made using local produce. People come back for the lamb shanks prepared with love. Nobby is also known as the home of Sister Elizabeth Kenny, who pioneered the treatment of infantile paralysis.

Guru Tip
Dad’s Mighty Mixed Grill or Dave’s Terrific T-Bone are must-tries.

Insta Moment
You are spoilt for choice when it comes to Instagramable memorabilia.

7. The Bun Pub, Kaimkillenbun

It’s the town with the longest name in Queensland, so it’s no surprise that the Kaimkillenbun Hotel became the Bun Pub! Stop here for some of the best coffee on the Downs and stay for the feedlot to fork beef and a bevy from the ever-changing tap list of craft beers. There’s a children’s playground next to the pub and a dog-friendly camping ground close by. History is everywhere in this pub, especially on the wall where young soldiers signed their names before going to war in 1914.

Guru Tip
Recreate scenes from the 1980s mini-series Chase Through The Night starring Nicole Kidman, which was filmed in the town.

Insta Moment
Share a perfectly plated plate, any plate and enjoy the food envy.

8. Maryvale Crown Hotel, Maryvale

It’s classic on the outside of this 100-year-old pub, but inside the Maryvale Crown Hotel, you’ll find all the modern comforts. Enjoy the locally sourced ingredients in their home-cooked meals in the rustic bar or relax in front of the lounge fireplace. The Crown is known for its excellent homemade pies and rissoles. You might have seen it featured on the popular Netflix show “Travels with my father” with Jack Whitehall and his dad.

Guru Tip
Last Saturday of the month is their top value Pig on a Spit with live music.

Insta Moment
A super selfie with friends in the rustic outdoor bar.

9. Windsor Hotel, Miles

The art deco-themed Windsor Hotel is an urban-style gastropub with meals made from scratch and an extensive craft beer and cider range. Work your way through the impressive steak menu with a choice of local 400gm wagyu steak, Diamantina 350gm rump, and 500gm tail-on T-Bone. Check the bar back wall to see works from local artists. This 100-year-old traditional country pub will take you back to your British Irish roots with its timeless décor, cosy fireplaces, pressed metal ceilings, and gorgeous tiffany light shades. There’s comfortable street seating outside and an attractive streetscape to explore.

Guru Tip
They take food seriously here and are renowned for their pork ribs rack and yardstick striploin.

Insta Moment
Pick a plate, any plate.

10. Victoria Hotel, Goondiwindi

The Victoria Hotel’s public bar has seen it all, from horsemen riding in and lassoing bottles straight from the shelves to boats cruising through during the 1956 floods. Located in the heart of the home of champion horse Gunsynd, this pub shows its 1920s roots with a jazzy Victoriana style. So, grab a seat in front of the open fire and enjoy their old-fashioned hospitality. If you are staying nearby, there’s also a courtesy bus to the town and showgrounds campsite.

Guru Tip
You’ll eat well here with a menu inspired by local suppliers.

Insta Moment
Head outside for a stunning night façade photo.

11. The Mill Inn Tavern, Millmerran

They don’t get much more child friendly than the Mill Inn Tavern. Set amidst park-like grounds, fourth-generation publicans Nat and Josh Volz have created a pub with warm vibes and genuine country hospitality. Let the kids run around in the playground or teach them how to play pool inside. It’s all designed so families have a fantastic time say the owners. Millmerran is the gateway to the Outback and pioneer country.

Guru Tip
Hunt through your old money for a note to leave on the wall behind the bar.

Insta Moment
Parmi's as big as your head.

12. Dulacca Hotel, Dulacca

Known as the pink pub on the hill, the 100+ year old Dulacca Hotel is a much-loved local meeting point with a warm welcome for travellers. Publicans Danny and Natalie Botany have 11 beers on tap complemented by an extensive cocktail and wine list. Danny’s grandparents bought the run-down pub back in 1979 and it has been heavily renovated to its current pink glory. Grab a barista coffee at the café or settle in for an MSA grade local steak with an organic lettuce salad and house-made relish. The deck is the perfect spot on a summer afternoon, while cool winter days will see you toasty around the potbelly stove. Play pool inside or lawn bowls and pickleball near the beer garden and camp nearby.

Guru Tip
Good country hospitality with city-style pub food here.

Insta Moment
Catch the pink pub at sunset.

13. The Royal Hotel, Leyburn

The oldest continually licensed establishment in Queensland, and we are talking 1863, The Royal is a heritage icon. You can see parts of the 150-year-old premises inside where the walls are lined with old photos. Sit beside the log fire and try some of the great value local Barkers Creek pork or grain-fed beef. The snittys and parmis are very generous. Children have their own menu and television room at this family-friendly pub. The Leyburn Sprints race is popular with petrol heads every August.

Guru Tip
Want to sound like a local? Say LEE-burn. Not LAY-burn!

Insta Moment
Capture that heritage charm and share!

14. Queensland National Hotel, Laidley

Take a road trip to the Lockey Valley and pull up at the QN Hotel for a family-friendly stop with classic country pub atmosphere. Try one of the well-priced craft beers on tap and tuck into a locally sourced value for money meal while the children play in the lushly landscaped beer garden. The pretty town of Laidley makes a perfect weekend road trip city escape, especially if you want to explore nearby Forest Hill.

Guru Tip
Love a steak sandwich? This is your place!

Insta Moment
Plenty of classic pub vibes to capture.

15. Stockman Hotel, Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas, they say, including the massive wall-mounted slingshot that’s a bar talking point. The iconic Stockman Hotel is a country pub with charm. They love local food and suppliers here and strongly support the local community. It’s also a motorcycle-friendly hotel with riding maps and cleaning kits available. Bikers can claim an opening drink of choice at the bar on their first visit to the town. Regional highlights include fishing and camping at Glenlyon Dam, Texas Heritage Centre, and the Tobacco Museum.

Guru Tip
In the cooler months, sample their mulled wine by the fireplace.

Insta Moment
The Jackelope - a rabbit’s head with antelope horns

16. The Railway Hotel, Allora

Freshly renovated, The Railway Hotel wears its history with pride. Pull up a seat at the bar here and chat with the friendly locals or chill in the beer garden. The menu is full of country favourites, and there’s often a live band to enjoy and a raffle to win on Friday nights. They call Allora the best little town on the Downs, and it gains extra fame as the childhood home of Mary Poppins author, PL Travers. Grab a nearby camping spot beside Dalrymple Creek.

Guru Tip
Classic country lambs fry and bacon or lamb chops on the menu here.

Insta Moment
Put some of that renovated heritage charm on your screen.

17. Farmers Arms, Cabarlah

The Farmers Arms, or as the locals call it, The Stump, serves up one of the best Guinness pies around. Eat it beside the crackling wood fireplace with a pint in hand. Located just north of Toowoomba, the pub dates from 1863 and calls itself the oldest continually established licensed pub in Queensland. Thursday is trivia night, but you’ll always enjoy plenty of idle chat with the friendly staff while your children explore the playground.

Guru Tip
The Cabarlah Markets are held just a one-minute walk down the street from the pub on the last Sunday of the month (except December when it’s the 2nd Sunday).

Insta Moment
A crackling fire or a knife skewered burger with chips? It just depends on how hungry you are.

18. The Lockyer Hotel, Forest Hill

Blooming with antique shops and unfound treasures, country towns don’t get much cuter than heritage-filled Forrest Hill. The Lockyer Hotel is the belle of the town with plenty of 1906 charm backed by a relaxed pub atmosphere and a wrap-around verandah. The country-style meals are generous and authentic. You won’t leave hungry! Follow the Cobb & Co Royal Mail route through the town. Just over an hour’s drive from Brisbane, this pub makes a great day trip.

Guru Tip
Lamb shanks, lamb shanks, and more lamb shanks!

Insta Moment
Dripping with wrought-iron lace, this pub is a perfect sunset star.

19. Mulgowie Hotel, Mulgowie, Lockyer Valley

Rocking those classic country vibes, the Mulga in the tiny town of Mulgowie is known for its tasty house-made pub meals and the twice-yearly Mulga Bull Ride. Their meals make good use of the Lockyer Valley’s premium farm-fresh produce. The timber deck is the place to bend an elbow and enjoy a chat with the friendly publican. You can camp nearby.

Guru Tip
Pop in here on a Pterodactyl Helicopters pub crawl

Insta Moment
Have a giggle and share the classic A-Frame funnies

20. Meringandan Hotel, Meringandan

It’s hard to know where to look at this pub with camels in the back paddock, goats at the window ordering a beer, and steaks so big they take up the whole plate. One of Toowoomba’s best-known country pubs, the Meringandan Hotel serves cold beer and massive meals from 10 am daily. The paddock full of goats, lambs, chickens, and camels will keep the kids amused while you polish off some of the biggest meals across the Darling Downs region. Big smiles and a friendly welcome, it doesn’t get more country than this.

Guru Tip
Book well in advance and take your appetite.

Insta Moment
Their mammoth 1kg steak, which takes up an entire plate.

21. Exchange Hotel, Jandowae

Exchange Hotel publican Rooster says this hotel doesn’t stand on pretension. Instead, it’s all about tasty, hearty fare in a beautiful old pub with original features and simple rooms. That’s what makes visitors return to this family-friendly pub every year to be welcomed back by the locals. The must-try dish is the Outback Parmi combined with a drink from the wide selection of cold beers. Give Oboe the dog a pat while you are there.

Guru Tip
Pull up a stool at the bar for simple, tasty country food and generous serves.

Insta Moment
Head to the park to take a winning shot of that heritage pub exterior.

22. Porters Plainland Hotel, Plainland

Three generations of the Porter family have ensured this 1905 landmark pub continues in the tradition of service with a smile and good old country hospitality. Even a road realignment couldn’t dampen this pub. They just picked it up and moved it over a bit. What people driving past on the busy Warrego Highway don’t know is that this pub serves up delicious food using Lockyer Valley veggies and locally sourced beef. There is a child-friendly menu for little ones too! Make it a weekend with a visit to the local farmers market held every third Sunday. It’s also a good base for treasure hunting in Marburg and Forest Hill.

Guru Tip
Check out the cake cabinet filled with house-made treats!

Insta Moment
The windmill instantly says country pub.

23. Forest Hill Hotel, Forest Hill

This hidden gem is a full-on heritage pub with a big twist. Step inside for some of the best Thai/Vietnamese fusion food in the region, all made with premium Lockyer Valley produce by Viet Kitchen just next door. The heritage-listed pub dates from 1898 and is a drawcard for Forest Hill’s picturesque village. It’s a great stop when travelling the Cobb & Co route.

Guru Tip
Have a drink and the bar while waiting for your dinner and enjoy a gelato over the road for dessert

Insta Moment
Take a photo of this top Thai food in an authentic Aussie pub

24. Grand Old Crow Hotel, Crows Nest

Crows Nest is one of Southeast Queensland’s new foodie hot spots, and the meals at Grand Old Crow do not disappoint. Tuck into a Guinness pie or a steak from local suppliers and finish the night in front of their crackling open fireplace. Behind the classic country pub exterior is a modern pub with traditional hotel-style rooms and plenty of country hospitality. It is a perfect spot to stay for the annual Hampton Food and Wine Festival.

Guru Tip
A great stop on the way to the Bunya Mountains.

Insta Moment
They’ll be drooling over your Guinness pie and mash

25. Killarney Hotel, Killarney

The pace is slower at Killarney Hotel, and the experience is rich with local flavour. Expect old-style country charm and a focus on local food with Killarney beef and Stanthorpe wines around the dining room fireplace in winter. Open in 1867, this pub is a perfect stop on the Queen Mary Falls route. Sunset from the top verandah, beer in hand, is one of life’s special moments. It’s popular so book ahead if you want to eat or stay here. A perfect choice for Killarney’s Bonfire night or Warwick’s Jumpers and Jazz in July.

Guru Tip
Spend a weekend living like a worker from the old days with basic amenities, a corner sink in your room, and a hot meal downstairs.

Insta Moment
Capture the postcard-perfect pub façade but look around the street too.

26. The Queensland Hotel, Goondiwindi

The Queensland Hotel, a warm-hearted country pub owned and run by a family, is fondly referred to by locals as the QL. During lockdown, brothers Tony and Jeff and their spouses, Vicki and Chris, grabbed the chance to purchase the pub. Renovations have brought new life to the pub and the owners are continuing to update and add finishing touches for customers to enjoy. In the Beer Garden, a vintage van, high and low tables, and comfortable lounges create the perfect environment to eat, drink, play and party. The QL also boasts new ensuite QL Quarters accommodation and a menu full of delicious offerings, such as char-grilled steak with toppers, salads, and spaghetti, plus the pub’s renowned parmis. The QL is also dog-friendly.

Guru Tip
In 2023, the Queensland Hotel and Queensland’s iconic beer, XXXX, marked their 145th birthdays.

Insta Moment
Take your pick from the just-crumbed chicken parmi menu for a juicy post.