The Hero of Waterloo Hotel

The Hero of Waterloo Hotel sits on Lower Fort Street at Millers Point, near The Rocks on the edge of Sydney Harbour. One of the city's oldest and most historic pubs — dating back to the 1840s — it's a genuine piece of Sydney's heritage, combining a wonderfully characterful old-pub atmosphere with good drinks, hearty food, live music and a warm, welcoming feel, complete with its famous old sandstone cellars.

The appeal is that combination of genuine history, a great old-pub atmosphere and a prime heritage location: there's something special about raising a glass in one of the city's oldest watering holes, with its convict-era cellars, live folk and jazz music and timeless charm. It's a beloved fixture for locals and a must for visitors exploring the harbourside heritage area.

With a 4.4 rating from more than 1,500 reviews, it's clearly a much-loved institution. Menus, drinks lists, opening hours and any live music vary, so it's worth checking current details before you go — though for a drink steeped in history, it's often just a matter of dropping in and soaking up the heritage charm at the Hero of Waterloo.