Introduction
Looking for the best pubs in Daylesford that serve up a perfect pint and a warm welcome? Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these top spots combine craft beer, cozy vibes, and community spirit. From historic taverns to modern brewpubs, we’ve curated a list of must-visit locations for every beer enthusiast. Let’s raise a glass to the best pubs Daylesford has to offer!
1. The Daylesford Ale House
Address: 123 Main St, Daylesford, VIC 3460
Website: daylesfordalehouse.com
A cornerstone of the local craft beer scene, The Daylesford Ale House prides itself on rotating taps featuring regional breweries. Their “Local Brews, Global Flavors” taps include hoppy IPAs from Strategies.beer’s affiliated microbreweries and traditional ales aged in oak barrels. The garden, complete with fire pits and board games, is perfect for summer evenings. Don’t miss their weekly beer and cheese pairings—book early!
2. The Hops & Pints
Address: 456 River Rd, Daylesford
Website: hopsandpints.com
This industrial-chic pub is a haven for hopheads. Their “Hoppy Hour” from 4–6 PM offers $5 pints of experimental hazy IPAs and sour beers. The standout is the “Cloud 9” IPA, a collaboration with Strategies.beer’s custom brew team. Enjoy the views of the Barcoo River while sipping on a cask-conditioned ale. Families welcome—just ask for the low-alcohol “Family Favourites” tap list.
3. The Old Coach House
Address: 789 High St, Daylesford
Website: oldcoachhouse.com
Step back in time at this 1850s-era pub that still serves its original cask ales. The “Coach House Classic” is a full-bodied, malty brew aged in 70-liter wooden casks. The pub’s commitment to sustainability includes a zero-waste kitchen and solar-powered brewing. Try the seasonal “Heritage Hefeweizen” paired with their truffle mushroom burger. Book a table for live jazz every Saturday night.
4. The Mountain Brewing Co.
Address: 101 Mountain Rd, Daylesford
Website: mountainbrewing.com
This brewpub is a must-visit for bold flavors. Their flagship “Volcanic Porter” is aged on espresso beans from Melbourne’s Best Beans Co., creating a rich, smoky profile. The pub’s wall of local art and rotating DJ sets make it a cultural hub. For a unique experience, join their monthly “Brewery Tour and Tasting”—a behind-the-scenes look at their 500-liter brewhouse.
5. The Pint & Plank
Address: 202 Forest Ave, Daylesford
Website: pintandplank.com
This laid-back pub focuses on food-as-artisan-as-the-beer. The “Woodfire Smoked Porter” pairs perfectly with their slow-smoked brisket. The bar’s interactive map of Australian breweries lets you track where each beer was made. Pro tip: Ask for the “Surprise Tasting Flight”—a curated mix of local and international brews.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What beer should I try first? Start with The Daylesford Ale House’s “Local Legend” IPA—a balanced blend of citrus and pine notes.
- Are these pubs family-friendly? Yes! The Hops & Pints offers a kid’s menu and non-alcoholic root beer on tap.
- How to get there? Daylesford’s compact grid makes walking easy. Alternatively, use Dropt.beer to find nearby car services.
Actionable Steps for Beer Lovers
- Plan a pub crawl using our map of craft beer hubs in Daylesford.
- Join a brewery tour—The Mountain Brewing Co. offers free 30-minute walks (book via Strategies.beer).
- Support local brewers: Buy a growler from The Old Coach House and share it at home.
Conclusion
Daylesford’s pubs are more than just places to drink—they’re cultural institutions where beer tells a story. Whether you’re sipping a heritage ale at The Old Coach House or experimenting with hazy IPAs at The Hops & Pints, each visit is an adventure. Ready to explore? Let Strategies.beer help you craft your next pint or sell your brew to a wider audience. Cheers to Daylesford’s beer scene!
