Right in the centre of town at the intersection of Windsor and East Market Streets, ‘The Royal’ at Richmond is another well-known historic watering hole and has held a continuous licence since 1865. The land was granted to build an Inn as part of the Macquarie Towns development in 1811, however the land remained undeveloped for some time, the building was not completed until 1848. The structure, one of the oldest in Richmond still standing, remained original until 1957 when substantial renovations modernised the building. Now in 2020, under new ownership the hotel has undergone a major transformation. The first stage completed in September boasted a new front bar area, a VIP space and a sunny courtyard beer garden. With major works complete, and charm retained it is definitely worth calling in check out the makeover of this honoured ‘local’. Open 7 days with all day dining from 11am until late, the new menu will evolve and celebrate local Hawkesbury produce.

The Wisemans Inn Hotel began it is life as Cobham Hall originally a residential house built in 1826 by convict labourers as a home for Solomon Wiseman, the convict ,merchant and enterprising ferryman who the township Wiseman’s Ferry is named after. Most of the original building is still intact today is constructed of…yep you guessed it, hand-hewn Hawkesbury sandstone. Unique and interesting features of the building are the red gum rafters that can be still seen throughout the roof and the crushed, oyster shells in the mortar of the walls. The Hotel is open 7 days with a family friendly bistro and large open air deck making it a popular destination any day of the week, or pit stop for those out exploring the Hawkesbury River, Wisemans Ferry and beyond. The deck has lovely scenic views and there is plenty of space for the kids to entertain themselves in ‘the backyard’.

The Bird in Hand Inn at Pitt Town (also known as The Maid of Australia for a time) was established to create a supplementary income source a farmer, Daniel Smallwood in 1825. This was a common trend of many resourceful farmers and merchants in the era. The Inn started out on a block of land opposite its current location, but was relocated. Now a landmark right in the centre of town, the existing heritage listed building was built sometime in the 1840’s. It operated as an Inn until the late 1890’s and then became Pitt Town’s General Store for some years. The building was restored in 1986, and reopened as an Inn with its original name. Open from 7 days from 10am until late, the pub is renowned for its friendly country atmosphere, generous traditional pub style meals, including a raved about chicken schnitzel.

If you want to immerse yourself in the European History of the area we have a number of resources to help you explore including driving and walking trails.

If it’s more the establishments, great food and drink options and live music you are in search of, check out our full list of Hawkesbury pubs.