10 country pubs. one incredible trail
If you want to uncover the stories, characters and local flavour that make this region what it is, start where locals have been gathering for generations: the pub.
Following the path of the former railway line, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is reconnecting these communities once again. When the trail reaches its full 132km length, it will link some of the region’s most iconic country pubs along the way. Here are ten pubs worth adding to your future Rail Trail itinerary. Sounds like the making of the perfect summer tradition to us.
The Imperial Hotel
Already the unofficial clubhouse of the Rail Trail, the Imperial Hotel has been looking after locals and visitors for more than a century. Sitting at the heart of Murwillumbah, it pairs hearty meals, comfortable accommodation and plenty of local character. Tried, tested and proudly pink, it’s a Northern Rivers icon for good reason.
Our highlight: You can’t visit the Impy without snapping a photo or two of its famous pink façade. While you’re there, order the Rail Trail Bowl, created especially for hungry adventurers fresh off the trail.
Victory Hotel, Mooball
After visiting the Victory Hotel, you’ll be left wondering why every country pub doesn’t come with a swimming pool. Serving the community since 1932, this classic local is packed with character and backed by a fiercely loyal following. If your idea of a great pub involves good food, cold drinks and a healthy dose of country hospitality, you’ve found it.
Our highlight: The pool, of course. While the kids make a splash, the grown-ups can settle in nearby and enjoy a well-earned refreshment.
Billinudgel Hotel
If country pubs could talk, the Billinudgel Hotel would have enough stories to fill a library. Welcoming travelers, railway workers and locals since the 1890s, it has survived floods, name changes and more than a century of Northern Rivers history. Today, it remains proudly family-run and every bit as full of character as ever.
Our highlight: The packed entertainment calendar. Time your visit right and you might just score live music with your dinner.
The Middle Pub, Mullumbimby
Right in the heart of town, The Middle Pub has been bringing locals and visitors together since 1904. From live music and piano sessions to raffles and karaoke, there is always something happening. It’s a pub that feels firmly woven into the fabric of Mullumbimby, and all the better for it.
Our highlight: The wraparound balcony, arguably one of the best people-watching spots in town. Don’t miss the vintage lounge-style dining room either, filled with antique artwork, well-worn sofas and character you simply can’t fake.
North Byron Hotel
Part pub, part garden picnic, North Byron Hotel blends tropical greenery, great food and a seriously good cocktail list into one distinctly Byron experience. Between the sunny deck, leafy outdoor spaces and a menu that goes well beyond standard pub fare, it delivers relaxed coastal hospitality at its best.
Highlight: A beer garden that feels more like a botanical garden. This is a seriously pretty setting for your afternoon.
Railway Friendly Bar
Few pubs wear their railway history as proudly as The Rails. Set within Byron Bay’s former railway precinct, it pairs heritage charm with one of the region’s best-loved live music scenes. Add cold beers, stone-baked pizzas and a giant fig tree, and it’s easy to see why generations of locals have made it their local.
Highlights: The heritage railway setting and free live music.
The Bangalow Hotel
Sitting proudly at the top of Bangalow’s historic main street, Bangalow Hotel blends country pub charm with a polished contemporary feel. Local produce features heavily on the menu, while live music keeps the atmosphere buzzing throughout the week.
Our highlight: The wide verandahs overlooking town and the cosy lounge complete with an open fireplace.
The Eltham Hotel
Part country pub, part cowboy saloon, Eltham Hotel has been turning heads for generations. Full of character from the moment you arrive, it’s clear this isn’t your average village pub. It’s the sort of place where timber verandah’s, country hospitality and a strong sense of community come together in all the right ways. A local icon? Absolutely. A Northern Rivers institution? We’d say so.
Our highlight: The accommodation. Think vintage trunks, antique artwork, rich textures and enough frontier-inspired charm to make you feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie set.
Station Hotel, Lismore
Some pubs are landmarks. Station Hotel is a survivor. Brought back to life following the 2022 floods, this South Lismore favourite has become a symbol of community resilience and determination. Pull up a chair and you’ll quickly understand why locals were so excited to see its doors reopen.
Our highlight: The beautifully restored interiors and the story behind them.
Commercial Hotel, Casino
With its grand façade, stylish interiors and healthy sense of fun, Commercial Hotel puts a fresh spin on the classic country pub. From Gloria’s Lobby Bar to its signature teapot cocktails, this Casino favourite is full of pleasant surprises.
Our highlight: Gloria’s Lobby Bar and the famous teapot cocktails.
When the full 132km trail is complete, visitors won’t just travel between towns. They’ll discover the pubs, cafés, stories and characters that give each place its personality.
Because sometimes the highlight of the day isn’t the distance covered or the views along the way. Sometimes it’s the pub lunch, cold drink or good conversation waiting at the end of it.