Historic Pubs & Modern Breweries: A St. John’s Pub Crawl
St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador, boasts a vibrant pub and brewery scene that reflects the city’s rich history and contemporary spirit. Whether you're a history buff, a craft beer enthusiast, or someone looking to experience local culture, this pub crawl through the downtown core of St. John's offers the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Here's your guide to exploring some of the city's best historic pubs and modern breweries:
The Duke of Duckworth | Image from dukeofduckworth.com
The Duke of Duckworth
https://www.dukeofduckworth.com/
Start your journey at The Duke of Duckworth, one of our city's most beloved pubs, found tucked away on McMurdo's Lane. With its cozy atmosphere, traditional pub fare, and an impressive selection of local beers, The Duke has been a staple of St. John's nightlife for decades. This pub offers a quintessential St. John's experience, complete with friendly locals, live music, and the perfect pint of Guinness. Local tip — try the Fish & Chips; you won’t regret it!
O'Reillys Irish Newfoundland Pub | Image from Google
O'Reilly's Irish Newfoundland Pub
Next, head over to O'Reilly's on George Street, the hub of St. John's nightlife. This lively pub is famous for its nightly live music, featuring local and Irish tunes that will have you tapping your feet all night long. O'Reilly's is also known for its selection of traditional Newfoundland food, such as fish and chips and cod tongues, making it an ideal stop for both food and drink.
YellowBelly Brewery & Public House | Photo credit: Russell Lynch Photography (2018)
Yellowbelly Brewery & Public House
https://www.yellowbellybrewery.com/
Just a short walk away, you'll find YellowBelly Brewery & Public House on Water Street, housed in one of the oldest buildings in the city, dating back to 1725. This historic five-story building has been beautifully restored, combining old-world charm with a modern brewery vibe. YellowBelly offers a fantastic range of craft beers brewed on-site, including their popular Wexford Wheat Ale and Fightin’ Irish Red Ale. Be sure to explore the different levels of the building, each offering a unique atmosphere, from the rustic cellar pub to the rooftop patio with stunning views of the harbour.
Wooden Walls Distillery | Image from woodenwalls.ca
Wooden Walls Distilling
Further along Harbour Drive, visit Wooden Walls Distilling, St. John's first craft distillery. This modern distillery prides itself on small-batch spirits that capture the essence of Newfoundland. In their welcoming tasting room, you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails made from their own vodka and gin, such as the Southside Citrus Gin. The space is designed with an old-timey feel that echoes the spirit of St. John's, making it a unique and memorable stop on your pub crawl.
Quidi Vidi Brewery | Image from Google
Quidi Vidi Brewery
A short drive (by Taxi or Uber of course) from downtown brings you to the picturesque fishing village of Quidi Vidi, home to Quidi Vidi Brewery. Nestled by the water, this brewery offers a quintessential Newfoundland experience, combining stunning views with a range of craft beers that have become local favorites. Try their famous Iceberg Beer, brewed using water from 20,000-year-old icebergs, or sample their seasonal offerings in the cozy taproom. Quidi Vidi Brewery is not just about the beer; it's about the community, the history, and the breathtaking scenery that makes this brewery a must-visit on your St. John's pub crawl
Bannerman Brewing Co.
https://www.bannermanbrewing.com/
Your final stop is Bannerman Brewing Co. Located on Duckworth Street in a beautifully repurposed fire station, Bannerman is a modern craft brewery that has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With a rotating selection of innovative brews, from IPAs to stouts, there’s always something new to try on tap. The brewery’s spacious taproom is the perfect place to unwind, and if you’re hungry, their kitchen offers a menu of creative, Thai-inspired dishes from Namjim. Bannerman also features an outdoor deck, ideal for enjoying a pint on a sunny Summer day.
Bannerman Brewing Co. | Image from Google
The St. John's pub scene is a delightful mix of the old and new, where historic taverns meet contemporary craft breweries. This pub crawl offers a taste of the city's storied past and its exciting present, all within the vibrant downtown core. And this is just to name a few — well-known George Street, the heart of St. John's nightlife, features over two dozen pubs, clubs, bars, and restaurants, all on one street. Whether you're a seasoned beer lover or a curious traveler, the pubs and breweries of St. John's are sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab your friends, book your stay at Dvele Inn, then raise a glass, and enjoy a night out in one of Canada's most charming cities!