Carlton Brewhouse

The basics

Located in central Melbourne’s Abbotsford neighborhood, the Carlton Brewhouse is Australia’s largest brewery, which can pump out up to 40,000 gallons (150,000 liters) of beer daily. The Brewhouse is as popular with locals as it is with tourists. The brewery has been making beer for around 150 years, and visitors can learn all about this on a guided tour, followed by a drink in the Brewhouse. Many travelers visit Carlton Brewhouse independently, but it is also a fixture on some food and drink-themed tours of Melbourne.

Things to know before you go

• Bookings are advisable if you want to eat at the Brewhouse and are traveling independently. Bookings can be made via the website.

• Dogs are welcome at the outdoor beer garden at the Brewhouse.

• Fun beer-themed merchandise is available at the store at the Brewhouse.

• The Brewhouse serves an extensive menu with items to suit many dietary preferences and has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options alongside the typical meat-heavy Aussie pub classics.

How to get there

The Carlton Brewhouse is located in Abbotsford, a central–eastern Melbourne suburb just south of the Yarra Bend Park. It’s easy to reach by public transport–the closest tram stop is McKay Street/Victoria Street (stop #22), just a 2-minute walk from the Brewhouse.

When to get there

The Carlton Brewhouse is closed on Mondays. From Wednesday until Saturday, it’s open from midday until late, while on Sunday, it closes earlier in the evening. Come during lunch or dinner time to enjoy a meal. The Brewhouse often hosts happy hours and live music on certain days, so check their schedule for current events. Trivia night is hosted on Wednesday evenings.

Hit up Melbourne’s craft beer scene

The Carlton Brewhouse is a fun destination serving popular, mass-produced beers. To sample something a bit different–and more niche–visit one of Melbourne’s many craft breweries. Visitors can take a craft beer-themed guided tour of several venues across the city or curate their own independent tour. Some good options include Fixation Brewing, Bonehead Brewing, Moon Dog Craft Brewery, and West Side Ale Works, all in the central Melbourne area.