The Southern Highlands are the perfect destination for any beer-lover, with an abundance of local breweries and pubs that can pour a pint worthy of the pickiest beer lover. Bowral is less than two hours from Sydney, making it the perfect weekend getaway, and with stunning scenery and a brilliant foodie scene, it’s nothing short of epic. Regardless of whether you’re after a cheeky tasting paddle, or want to spend the whole day exploring the region’s tastiest pubs and breweries, we’ve got you sorted with this list of the best Southern Highlands breweries and Bowral pubs.
What makes the Southern Highlands Breweries and pubs so special?
With a passion for good quality, delicious beer and a reputation for excellent food and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder breweries in Bowral and surroundings are beginning to draw a crowd.
The Southern Highlands pubs and breweries take pride in their craftsmanship, using traditional brewing techniques and high-quality ingredients to produce their beers. This combination of love and dedication has resulted in the well-crafted, flavourful beers the region is known for.
Like true local legends, many Southern Highlands breweries love experimenting with different styles and flavours to keep you on your toes with new interesting flavours. However, if wine’s more your speed, never fear! Check out our list of the best Southern Highlands wineries, or join one of our much-loved Southern Highlands Wine Tours.
Why not make the most of this beautiful part of the world and take your workmates along for the perfect team building experience? The Southern Highlands are not just known for their artisanal breweries or wineries, from cosy cafés to waterfall hikes, there are plenty of fun activities to do to soak up everything the region has to offer. Take a look at the 12 best things to do in Bowral!
Here are our favourite Southern Highland breweries and pubs. Want to see them all? We do too! Tick off the hottest spots in the region with an Urban Legends Wine and brewery tour (where you can also choose to only hit the local breweries or distilleries).
Our favourite Southern Highlands breweries and pubs in Bowral and surrounds
THE TAPHOUSE MOSS VALE
Boasting beer cuisine at its best and most delicious, The Taphouse Moss Vale won’t disappoint. This spot has a relaxed vibe and quality brews, making it popular with both locals and visitors. It features local beers crafted by Southern Highlands Brewing Co., a brewery formed by two friends with a love for craft beer.
Where? 490-494 Argyle St, Moss Vale NSW 2577
Opening Hours: Wednesday and Thursday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Friday to Sunday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Come here for: A delicious range of craft beers on tap! Enjoy a tasty seasonal menu using the freshest ingredients supplied wherever possible by local producers. French brasserie favourites such as Confit of Duck and Pinnacle Grass-Fed T-Bone with Café de Paris Butter make the perfect accompaniments for crafted beers. A vegetarian menu is also on offer, along with a great bar menu for all-day dining, share plates and kid-friendly dishes. If you’re wanting a break from beer, there’s also an extensive wine list.
The Taphouse Moss Vale Photo By The Fold
EDEN BREWERY
Eden Brewery is built on the foundation of doing good and being a positive influence on the community – both the local community and world at large.That is why they donate 10% of their profits to Oxfam as a means of providing clean drinking water to those in need. The brewery also uses 100% green renewable energy, ensuring they are environmentally responsible.
Where? 1/19 Cavendish Street, Mittagong NSW 2575
Opening Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Friday: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Come here for: Eden Brewery is known for its range of handcrafted beers, including pale ales, lagers, stouts, and seasonal brews. They regularly host events and tastings so visitors can sample their beers and learn more about the brewing process. Eden Brewery is an uncomplicated and relaxed space where people are encouraged to chill and relax, talk, share life and bond over a good beer.
THE IMPERIAL HOTEL
The award-winning Bistro at The Imperial Hotel is a firmly established favourite for locals and visitors alike. The modern menu features local produce, perfectly grilled steaks and seafood. Imperial Pizza is one of a handful of pizzerias in Australia serving truly authentic, wood fired, Neapolitan style pizzas.
Where? 228/234 Bong Bong St, Bowral NSW 2576
Opening Hours: Open daily from 12:00 PM until late.
Come here for: If you're a fan of craft beer or local wine, The Imperial Hotel offers a huge range of drinks from nearby breweries and wineries. Sample some of the best brews and wines that the Southern Highlands region has to offer, sit by the roaring fire and enjoy a delicious meal.
WYADRA BREWING
Wyandra Brewing is a small, boutique craft brewery is operated out of a property owned by a local couple. With beer made in small batches using fresh rainwater and quality ingredients, it doesn’t get more local and authentic than Wyandra Brewing!
Where? 209 Old Wingello Road, Tallong NSW 2579
Opening Hours: Varied.
Come here for: Regular tasting events with live music, delicious food and of course good quality, delicious beer. Make sure to give them a ring before you visit because they open by appointment, or check the Wyadra Brewing Facebook page for updates on their open days.
MERRIGANGS IN THE MILL
Merrigangs is a popular distillery known for its brilliant locally produced gin, as well as its selection of beer, wine, and cider from all across the Southern Highlands. It’s situated in the historic Mill complex, a site originally built in 1885 that has recently been glammed up and turned into a hotspot for foodies and beer lovers alike.
Where? Shop 9/210-224 Bong Bong St, Bowral NSW 2576
Opening Hours: Friday and Saturday 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Come here for: Delicious Vietnamese and vegetarian food, high quality artisan gin, beer, and wine. Merrigangs also offers distillery tours and cocktail-making classes, perfect for a fun day out!