From micro-breweries to well established brewhouses – enjoy a cold one straight from the source at New South Wales best craft beer breweries!
Craft beer, cider and more. There’s nothing that these breweries in New South Wales can’t do when it comes to the world of beer.
Whether you’re planning an upcoming road trip or you’re just wanting to find a new spot for you and your mates, we’ve found some of the most iconic Australian craft brewers for you to try.
Tucked inside Sydney’s CBD, travelling up to Newcastle and finishing in Byron Bay; to celebrate all things beer, we’ve found the best New South Wales breweries you must visit in 2023!
Photographed by Ken Leanfore. Image via Destination NSW.
Batch Brewing Company
Despite Marrickville being the home to some of the Best Vietnamese Restaurants and Eateries in Sydney, it’s also the home to Batch Brewing Company. And, these guys aren’t shy when it comes to testing out new flavours. In the past they’ve served up everything from coffee-infused milk stouts to Christmas pudding flavoured porters. Originally established in America as pale ale masters, nowadays they are more experimental when it comes to craft beer brews. The previous panel-beaters shop now turned brewery features most of its original decor that ties in with a mix of sunken-in couches, coffee tables and growlers for those on the go.
Photographed by Alan Benson. Image via Destination NSW.
FogHorn Brewhouse
If you’re looking for a brewery in Newcastle, we’ve found the perfect spot. Opening their doors in April of 2015, FogHorn Brewhouse was originally an abandoned building. Featuring an 1800 litre brewery and four 1800 litre serving tanks, FogHorn is also home to a mouthwatering American inspired restaurant. Guests will be amazed by the quality at FogHorn Brewhouse, serving beer directly from the tank to your glass.
Photographed by Bence Boros. Image via Unsplash.
The Grifter Brewing Co.
Sitting across from Enmore Park in Sydney’s inner west suburb of Marrickville is The Grifter Brewing Co. Since 2012, three home brewers moved their famed recipes to be produced into a fully functional brewery. Since then, the team use high quality ingredients paired with traditional brewing methods to create a range of craft beer Sydneysiders love. With over 10 beers on tap, The Grifter Brewing Co. is also home to various food trucks for you to eat your way through.
Photographed by James Horan. Image via Destination NSW.
The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel
Found within the 1836 heritage listed building in The Rocks, Australia’s oldest pub brewery, The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel, features exposed internal walls and original chisel markings on the quarried stone. Upon entry guests will feel like they’ve travelled back in time. And, to no surprise, it’s one of the most iconic buildings in Sydney and it’s the oldest, most continually licensed hotel. In the heart of Sydney’s many landmarks, The Lord Nelson is ‘world renowned for its architecture, ambience and ales.’ A must visit in 2023!
Photographed by Jem Cresswell. Image via Destination NSW.
Modus Brewing
First established over 10 years ago, this craft beer brewery can be found on the outskirts of the CBD in the Northern Beaches suburb of Mona Vale. Living by their motto of “beer first, no shortcuts,” there’s no denying that consistency of the highest quality can be found within each brew. Upon your visit to Modus Operandi, pair your craft beer with some of their delectable treats including Halloumi Fries, tacos, wings, burgers, pizza and much more.
Photographed by Jonas Jacobsson. Image via Unsplash.
Murray’s Craft Brewing Co
Nestled between Tilligerry Creek and Worimi National Park is Murray’s Craft Brewing Co. Originally found over an hour south-west of Coffs Harbour in Taylors Arm, today the venue is located within the Nelson Bay precinct. Since 2006, Murray’s Craft Brewing Co have created a range of tap and bottle naturally crafted beers. Pair your visit to Murray’s with a feed at Murray’s Bar & Kitchen, Agnes High Tea Pavilion, Restaurant William or Boglione & Sons Bakery. One of the best breweries in regional NSW!
Photographed by James Horan. Image via Destination NSW.
Stone and Wood, Byron Bay
Nine hours from Sydney, sitting along a side street from Byron Bay Beach is Stone and Wood brewery. Since 2008, this 100 per cent independent regional brewery has created a range of beers for the likings of its locals. Stone and Wood take inspiration from the colourful community and the natural beauty of its surrounds to create the legendary Stone and Wood taste. Brewing for locals, friends and those who simply appreciate good beer. A must-try craft brewery in NSW!
Photographed by Ken Leanfore. Image via Destination NSW.
Wayward Brewing Co.
Tucked in a backstreet off Pyrmont Bridge Road – between Camperdown and Annandale – is Wayward Brewing Co., a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Since their beginnings in early 2012, Founder Peter Philip and head brewer Shaun Blissett have created a craft beer brewery empire in Sydney’s Inner West. Here you can hop on over for a guided tour, tasting or, just a relaxed time with friends. Living by their mantra ‘Wayward in our approach but meticulous when it comes to brewing,’ this brewery is a must-visit for any Sydneysider.
Photographed by Anna Kucera. Image via Destination NSW.
Young Henrys Brewery
Tucked behind Enmore Road in Newtown, you’ll find Young Henrys brewing everything from lager to cider, IPA, ale and even gin. Since March of 2012, Young Henrys grew enormously in less than a blink of an eye. Originally with the intention to brew solely for the local community, Young Henrys is now a beckoning brewery for any malt and hop lover out there. With a tasting bar and brewery tour available on site, it comes to no surprise as why they’ve made our list of the best New South Wales breweries.
Photographed by Ken Leanfore. Image via Destination NSW.
4 Pines Brewpub Manly
Overlooking Cabbage Tree Bay and with Manly Beach to its back, the iconic 4 Pines Brewpub Manly is where this famed brewery originated 15 years ago. Despite time and taste changing, the original microbrewery remains on site and, as it comes to no surprise, it still brews some of the finest craft beers in Sydney. With the entire core range on tap, 4 Pines Brewpub Manly also offers brewery tours and a wide range of mouthwatering food to wash down all of that ale!
Looking for something new to try? Go booze-free with this list of the 10 Best Non-Alcoholic Australian Made Beers. Or, shake things up with these 3 Easy Beer Cocktail Recipes.
