Adventure brief
Hobart Liquid History Pub Tour
Step into Hobart’s past with Dave’s Liquid History Pub Tour. Trace convict stories and maritime legends while tasting Tasmania’s finest craft beers, ciders, and wines in Australia’s oldest pubs.
Hobart, Tasmania’s capital city, offers more than rugged landscapes and sweeping harbor views. It’s a place steeped in early Australian colonial history, where the echoes of convict pasts and maritime legends still linger in the streets and historic buildings. Dave’s Travel Group invites visitors on the Hobart Liquid History Pub Tour, a spirited 2.5-hour walking journey through Hobart’s waterfront and oldest pubs, blending historical storytelling with a curated tasting of the island’s craft beers, ciders, and wines.
This experience begins at the Hope & Anchor Hotel—Australia’s oldest pub—where guests gather to meet their guide, Dave. From there, the tour winds through historic blocks featuring some of Hobart’s oldest architecture. Along the way, Dave’s engaging narration brings to life tales of early settlers, the convict workforce that shaped the city, and vibrant maritime folklore, all delivered with a warm dose of humor.
Unlike typical history tours, this one pairs knowledge with the sensory delight of sampling locally brewed beverages uniquely crafted in Tasmania’s cool temperate climate. Visitors stop at four different pubs and bars, each adding a new layer to the city’s story, while serving a selection of Tasmanian beer, cider, and wine. This combination of well-crafted tales and local flavors creates a memorable connection to the place beyond its famous wilderness.
Ideal for history enthusiasts and craft beverage lovers alike, the tour offers an accessible way to engage with Hobart’s cultural fabric without leaving the urban core. The walking route covers roughly 1.5 kilometers, navigating some uneven streets but avoiding steep climbs, making it approachable for most visitors. Dave’s Travel Group stands out as a unique operator in Hobart’s outdoor and cultural scene by embracing the city’s historic pubs as both venues and storytelling stages.
This tour is more than just a drink—it's a dynamic way to see Hobart through the eyes of locals who cherish their heritage and brews in equal measure.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear Comfortable Walking Shoesessential
The tour covers about 1.5 kilometers over uneven sidewalks and some cobblestones—sturdy footwear is a must.
- 02Bring a Sense of Humorinfo
The guide’s bad jokes are part of the fun, so come ready to laugh and engage with the stories.
- 03Minimum Age Requirementessential
Participants must be 18+ due to alcohol tastings during the tour.
- 04Consider a Light Meal Beforehandinfo
Food isn’t included, and kitchen hours vary, so eat beforehand if you plan to attend an evening tour.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary for navigating uneven pavements and cobblestones during the walking portions.
EssentialWeather-Appropriate Jacket
A waterproof layer is useful during Tasmania’s occasional spring showers.
springEssentialReusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially during warmer months and while consuming alcohol.
summerEssentialID for Age Verification
Required to confirm you meet the 18+ age requirement for the alcohol tastings.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery – a short walk from the tour route with rich cultural exhibits, Battery Point historic district – nearby neighborhood with colonial architecture and quiet lanes
Local fauna
Black swans on Hobart’s waterfront, Occasional sightings of native possums in urban green spaces
Historic heritage
Hobart was established in 1804 as a penal colony and holds Australia’s oldest pubs and buildings, remnants of its convict-driven origins.
Mindful exploration
Tasmania emphasizes sustainable tourism, encouraging visitors to support local producers and respect historic sites during urban tours like this.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- The frontage of the Hope & Anchor Hotel, Waterfront streets featuring historic sandstone buildings, Inside the oldest pub showcasing rustic interiors
- Subjects
- Historic pub architecture, Tasmanian craft beverages, Cobbled streets and waterfront scenes
- Best times
- Late afternoon golden hour, Early evening, Overcast midday for softer light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What is the minimum age for the tour?
Participants must be at least 18 years old because tastings of alcoholic beverages are included.
How much walking is involved?
The tour covers roughly 1.5 kilometers through city streets, including some uneven surfaces.
Are meals included in the tour?
No, food is not included, so it’s best to eat before the tour, especially for evening departures.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
A wheelchair-friendly version of the tour is available upon request. It’s best to inform Dave’s Travel Group before booking.
What types of beverages will I taste?
Samples include locally brewed craft beers, ciders, and wines made on the island of Tasmania.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is the Hope & Anchor Hotel at 65 Macquarie Street, Hobart.