The Watering Hole Tavern

The Watering Hole Tavern is a family-friendly country pub on Olinda-Monbulk Road, recently revitalised under new management, and dogs on lead are welcome throughout its outdoor dining areas and heated courtyard.

The dog setup. Well-behaved dogs are permitted in the outdoor dining spaces and the heated courtyard, on lead and at your table. There is no fee for bringing your dog. Assistance dogs have full access to the venue including indoors. Staff will often bring out a water bowl on request, but pack your own to be sure, and bring your own treats.

Known for. Hearty pub meals, a large temporary sports bar screening AFL and major sporting events, and weekend live music. It is the kind of pub where you settle in for a while, which suits a dog who is happy to lie under the table.

Getting there and parking. The tavern sits on the Olinda-Monbulk Road (C416), a short drive from the rest of the Dandenong Ranges. On-site parking is available, with additional street parking nearby. Local bus routes stop near the Monbulk town centre.

Nearby with the dogs. The shopping strip is about 250 metres away, close enough to walk with your dog to the cafes and bakeries there. Monbulk Recreation Reserve is a short stroll for a leg-stretch before or after your meal, and Puffing Billy at Belgrave is a worthwhile drive if you want to make a full day of it.

Weekday afternoons are the calmest time to visit. If there is a big game on, expect the courtyard to fill fast, so arrive early or book ahead if you want a guaranteed spot for you and the dog.

Sources

• The Watering Hole Tavern · thewateringholetavern.com.au
• The Watering Hole Tavern - assistance dog visit · facebook.com
• The Watering Hole Tavern - sports bar · facebook.com
• The Watering Hole Tavern - new chapter · instagram.com

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.