The Best Pubs in Launceston to Relax in This Weekend

Launceston’s friendly nature and easy-going charm have ensured that good cheer and hearty food are never in short supply. Not least at the cosy, convivial pubs serving up a slice of true Tassie hospitality and plain old fashioned fun.

From classic boozers and craft brew favourites, to rejuvenated haunts serving up fantastic live music and destination pubs more than worth the 20-minute drive out of the city; these are the best pubs in Launceston for easing into the weekend.

Pool stick in one hand, preferred drink in the other. Let's pub. 

The Royal Oak Hotel

For fantastic live music and some of the best pub food in the city, pay a visit to the City Park-adjacent Royal Oak Hotel. A reinvigorated boozer paying homage to its roots, this is one of the best pubs in Launceston for a splash of Tasmanian character and warm hospitality. Go for the seasonal bistro-style menu and vibey band room dedicated to supporting local and Aussie musical talent in an atmosphere of heritage, soul and wit; stay for the sundown cocktails atop the rooftop bar and community feel.

 14 Brisbane Street, Launceston

Saint John Craft Beer 

If craft beer is your thing, then this pub-like bar will be your happy place. With 17 local (and beyond) beers on tap, and over 100 in bottles in cans, you’d best take your keen decision-making skills along to Saint John Craft Beer Bar. Non-beer drinkers needn’t worry, with a very solid selection of craft cider, wines and cocktails also on offer. Beer’s best friends – a good burger or taco – are on hand to provide a tasty accompaniment, or opt for a Tasmanian cheese plate, full of the state’s finest.

133 St John Street, Launceston

Brady's Tavern at Penny Royal

Amongst a beautiful setting of greenery and Penny Royal’s trademark waterfall, Brady’s Tavern is where to take a seat to enjoy wood-fired pizzas, pasta, parmis and pints aplenty. One of the most scenic pubs in Launceston, this is a unique albeit relaxed dining experience every Launnie local and traveller will enjoy. The relaxed atmosphere, historic surrounds and menu of Tasmanian craft beer, cider, wines and spirits don't hurt either. 

Penny Royal Adventures, 5/1 Bridge Road, Launceston

The Clarendon Arms

Look to The Clarendon Arms for relaxed drinking and dining you’ll long to return to time and again. Just twenty minutes outside of Launceston in quaint, historic Evandale, this is one of the best pubs in northern Tasmania, not just for its craft beer menu and simple, produce-driven Modern Australian cuisine, but the impressively leafy beer garden. It's made for lazy, sun-dappled afternoons sipping on local IPA and feasting on grazing boards, free range chicken, leek and Scottsdale bacon pies, rustic cassoulets and Caesar salad. 

11 Russell Street, Evandale

Three Steps on George 

What was once the Launceston Church Grammar School Gymnasium has been tastefully redesigned into a traditional British pub-style restaurant attached to The Colonial Hotel. Three Steps on George is relaxed and atmospheric; a place to settle in for the night with a drink out in the tranquil garden or by the log fire indoors, and indulge in a menu inspired by traditional British cuisine. It's hard to look past their fish and chips and traditional sticky date and walnut pudding.

Looking for a unique date night? You can arrange an intimate dinner on their second storey mezzanine, offering a birds eye view of the restaurant below.

At Three Steps, you'll also have the opportunity to play a serious game of eight ball or to sit back and watch the news or live sports on the big screen TV. 

158 George Street, Launceston

Rosevears Hotel

A little over twenty minutes up the Tamar Highway you'll come to find this historic pub with a modern twist. Sitting pretty on the western banks of the Tamar River, the iconic Rosevears Hotel is one of the best pubs in Launceston (well, just outside of Launceston; it still counts). At Rosevears, a passion for local and seasonal produce shines through, with a diverse menu reflective of the amazing producers in the Tamar Valley. A fusion of old and new pub fare, expect the likes of Tassie Pacific oysters, a half shell scallop Mornay and plenty of pizzas alongside heartier mains such as Tamar Valley porterhouse steak with crunchy chips and salad, wild mushroom risotto and Cassalinga spicy sausages, served up with creamy mash and peperonata. 

This scenic pub also provides a great kids menu that goes beyond your typical nuggets and chips, ensuring everyone is bound for a delicious time. 

215 Rosevears Drive, Rosevears

The Park on Invermay

Since the 1850's, The Park on Invermay is a must stop place for excellent service, local beer, a fun sports bar atmosphere and the award-winning Tramms Family Bistro. The onsite restaurant offers great value dining for the whole family, with a range of delicious bistro and pub classics, from Cape Grim Kansas beef ribs to Boags battered fish. If you can, scoop a spot out front and enjoy your meal in the sunshine. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, it is easy to see why The Park on Invermay is a favourite of locals and visitors alike. 

Suite 2/43-45 Invermay Road, Invermay

Du Cane Brewery & Dining Hall

Launceston's newest brewpub and dining hall is designed for locals, families, bushwalkers and outdoor adventurers alike, to gather and celebrate the character and culture of Tasmania's outdoors tradition.

The food at Du Cane Brewing is delicious, with a kitchen rolling and dolling out big Italian woodfired pizzas to the hungry hordes that swing past for a quick bite and bevvy, or settle in for a relaxed afternoon of pints and perfect pies. 

It's all about the beer here though. 100% totally Tasmanian (brewed by Launnie’s very own Will Horan), do yourself a favour and order up a tasting paddle to sample a few different styles. For a classic pint though, don't look past their 'Resting at Pinestone Creek' mid. 

All of this, plus a layered environment full of fun and playful spaces that provide a real sense of communion, much like being together in the bush. We reckon you're going to love Du Cane, one of the best 'quite like a' pubs in Launceston. 

60/64 Elizabeth Street, Launceston

If you enjoyed our guide to the best pubs in Launceston and surrounds, make yourself comfortable and read on to discover the best bars and restaurants in this charming city.