Castle Hill Tavern

Castle Hill Tavern is a big, busy local on Victoria Avenue near Home Hub, running four bars, a bistro and regular live music from 10am into the early hours. For dog owners the deal is simple: dogs are welcome in the outdoor beer garden, and that is the spot to aim for.

The dog setup

The beer garden and courtyard have plenty of seating under large market umbrellas, and staff will often bring out a water bowl, though carrying your own is the safe play. Only assistance animals are permitted inside the bistro and bars. It is a large, lively venue, so check with staff on arrival that the garden is not packed out for your dog's temperament.

The vibe

The kitchen leans on pub classics: schnitzels, burgers, nachos and steak sandwiches, with a daily happy hour from 4 to 6pm. The garden regularly hosts live music and big-screen sport, which is great fun for people and worth weighing up if your dog is noise shy.

Max: time your visit to the start of happy hour on a weekday. You get the garden at its calmest, and the kitchen is in full swing.

Getting there and parking

The address is 25 Victoria Avenue. There is a free on-site car park plus street parking on Victoria Avenue and free undercover parking at neighbouring Home Hub. Castle Hill Metro Station is about a fifteen to twenty minute walk.

Pair it with

Burn off lunch first at Coolong Reserve Fenced Dog Park, a fully fenced off-lead run a few minutes away, or take the on-lead option through Bidjigal Reserve. The lower dog arenas at Castle Hill Showground are also open when no events are on.

More options are on the NSW dog friendly pubs guide and the Castle Hill destination page.