Let’s face it, a country pub just hits different.
They’re a lingering reminder of days gone by - when the beer was always Tooheys, the schnitzels were always cheap, and every hour was happy hour.
The Mudgee Region’s pubs blend this ye olde charm with contemporary service - think extensive cocktail lists and modern menus, set amid heritage buildings and rustic bar mats.
Our pubs are places where locals say g’day to the friendly bar staff each week. Where the meat tray raffle and the joker draw are must-attend events. Where seriously good wine lists mix with the roast of the day, for a pub that’s a perfect blend of old and new.
Here’s our pick of the region’s pubs - we’ll meet you at the bar…
The Prince of Wales Hotel Gulgong: Quaint, quirky and quick with a hello — it’s easy to love the Princes of Wales Hotel in Gulgong. Expect next-level pub food, good vibes and country hospitality at its finest.
Gold & Fleece Hotel Windeyer: A quintessential country pub with all the trimmings. History-packed bar? Check. Locals and visitors mingling over the pool table? Check. Live music nights that turn into crowd karaoke? Check. This Windeyer icon is a must-visit.
Cooyal Hotel: A little off the beaten track, but definitely worth the drive. Snag a seat on the deck and enjoy the rural views, or head out the back where the kids can explore and you can drink your wine in peace! We love the food here — the kids’ menu is home to dishes like “I don’t care” (nuggets and chips) and “whatever” (beef sausage and chips). LOL. Try the chef’s selection with wine pairing suggestions, or just grab a beer and take it all in.
Lue Hotel: This regional icon has been serving great tap beer for over 120 years — and it shows, in the very best way. Add classic pub fare and the charm of this picturesque village, and you’ve got a winning country pub. Pull up a stool at the bar or claim a spot on the front verandah to watch the sun dip behind the hills.
Kandos Hotel: Located in the town’s oldest commercial building, this century-old gem is truly the heart of the town. With new owners and a revamp, its newly renovated kitchen is home to pub food packed with local produce, while the event line-up features pool comps, trivia nights, live music and raffles.
The Globe Hotel Rylstone: Located in the heart of Rylstone, the Globe is the perfect place for a pit stop. Soak in the sunshine with a beer out the front, or settle in front of the fire with a glass of local red. You’ll find plenty of locals to chat with too — and a delicious menu to sample.
Paragon Hotel: Mudgee’s boutique corner pub. Located just a short walk from the town centre, the Paragon is one of the locals’ favourite watering holes. Soak in the pub’s history as you sip on a glass of local wine or beer. Their menu is a celebration of pub classics — yes, chicken schnitzel, yes! - with a free milkshake/soft drink and activity book for the kids #living
Oriental Hotel: The Ori to the locals! This iconic CBD hotel is home to a stellar local wine list, cold beer on tap and a pub menu that punches above its weight. Visit for their signature slow-cooked lamb, stay for the chicken club sandwich. Kids will love the playroom, complete with chocolate machine (bring your gold coins!) while parents will love the alfresco dining area, gin bar and daily food specials.
Woolpack Hotel: When you look up ‘country pub’ in the dictionary, the Woolpack is what you’ll find. Snag a spot out the front and watch the world go by, or enjoy one of their famous espresso martinis in the sunny beer garden. A meal at the Chinese-fusion restaurant, Jumbucks, is a must; as is a boogie on the dance floor…
