Want to escape the hustle and bustle? The best pubs outside the CBD

Commonly referred to as ‘The Lass’, is one of Newcastle’s oldest, dating back to 1877. The Lass is known for its laid back vibe and original music. Although on the small side, the Lass boasts an enormous beer garden and a quirky charm. Drop in for a beer, some local music and say hello to the resident cat.

Located in beachside Merewether, this old corner pub has recently undergone a makeover. While still retaining a comfortable vibe, the Burwood is now up to date and feeling younger than ever. With an updated restaurant and Friday night happy hour with $8 cocktails, this venue is perfect for a relaxed night out with friends.

Established in 1875, The Bennett Hotel has not broken its Hotel License since! Although not the trendiest of pubs, The Bennett offers a large range of beers on tap. The Oriental Kitchen offers cuisine including Chinese, Thai, Indonesian and Malaysian or if you’re after that real Australian pub feel, The Bennett provides a BBQ facility in the beer garden where you can BYO food. For an authentic suburban pub feel, The Bennett Hotel certainly provides.

The Albion Hotel is for the serious beer and food lover, boasting an impressive nine page beer list, the Albion has craft beers from all over the world, including America, Italy, Norway and Scotland. Aside from its substantial beer list, The Albion has won countless awards for their pub cuisine and offers courses in beer education tasting sessions. The Albion is certainly a pub that leaves you spoiled for choice!

Another local favourite is The Oriental Hotel in Cooks Hill, located just behind the hustle and bustle of Darby Street, the ‘Ori’ provides a comfortable place to relax and enjoy a coldie. The Ori supports local comedians through Newcastle Comedy, a non profit organisation that is focused on supporting and maintaining stand up comedy in Newcastle. Not bothered to compete with the many eateries on Darby Street, The Ori only provides light meals but compensates through their low priced, delicious beers. A great place to visit after a meal, grab a beer and have a laugh.

Ok, so technically not a pub, but it has bars located inside to constitute about five venues! If you live within the area you will need to become a member (or have one sign you in) but almost every transaction carries a 10% discount for members, so you can very quickly compensate your losses. Wests has too many different bars to count; including the Chocolate Bar, Irish Bar and the chic Marble Bar, along with this huge selection of beverages comes an equally impressive selection of foods. Enjoy a great Chinese meal at the Emerald Gardens, or indulge in some fine dining at Hobarts. If you are after something low key, you can always grab a meal in the Bistro, or if you are feeling particularly adventurist, why not take on the ‘Big Ass Burrito’ challenge and add your photo to the wall of fame!

For those looking for a relaxed meal and drinks, why not try The Shaft Tavern, located in Elermore Vale. The Shaft is one of those classic suburban pubs, boasting TAB facilities, pool tables and a bistro offering contemporary Australian meals. Why not try a beer and a $10 chicken schnitzel on Thursday nights, now what could be more Australian than that?