There’s something pretty magical about the Adelaide Hills in winter: crisp air, flowing creeks, and the perfect excuse to rug up in beanies and puffer jackets. Add a steaming plate of gnocchi, a roaring fireplace, and a crackling creek-side backdrop, and you’ve got a day out that ticks all the family-friendly boxes. Welcome back to The Bridgewater Inn.
This local favourite has had a bit of a glow-up recently, and it’s looking better than ever. The new all-weather pavilion, upgraded beer garden and revamped balcony have brought a fresh vibe to this historic pub without losing any of the charm that’s made it so popular over the years. The addition of a lift and new bathrooms has also made it more accessible, which is always a win.
We visited on a cool winter’s day and loved every second. The fire was going, the creek was flowing, and the whole place had that relaxed, cosy feel. We tucked into the beef ragu with handmade gnocchi (a standout), the nasi goreng (packed with flavour), and the Bridgey Burger, which came highly recommended. Our eight-year-old, who eats like a grown man, gave it a massive thumbs up and polished off the lot. It’s huge.
The kids’ menu has something for everyone, with eight great options including chicken nuggets, fish and chips, a grazing plate and even a vegan schnitzel. You can grab a main on its own or upgrade to the meal deal for an extra five bucks to include a drink, ice cream and activity pack. Great value and guaranteed to keep little ones happy. And yes, the sticky date pudding is worth it.
If the kids aren’t quite ready to head home, there is a beautiful adventure to be had following the creek for a little walk and the Bridgewater Mill playground next door is always a hit. Just one more reason to stretch the day out a little longer.
There’s something about the Bridgewater Inn that works in every season. In summer, it’s shady and cool beside the water. In winter, it’s warm and welcoming by the fire. The new pavilion, with its insulated roof, gas fireplaces and outdoor blinds, means you can enjoy that fresh-air feeling no matter what the weather is doing. Whether you’re walking the Heysen Trail, catching up with friends, or just craving a really good pub lunch in a beautiful setting, this one’s well worth the trip. So grab your phone and send round that ‘Bridgewater Inn?’ text to plan your next family/ friend Sunday catch up here!
Bridgewater Inn
Open 7 days a week from 10am – Late
Weekday meals from 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm and 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Saturday meals from 11:30 am – 9:00 pm
Sunday meals from 11:30 am – 8 pm
Location: 387 Mt Barker Rd, Bridgewater
You can find them on Facebook or Instagram
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Find it at: Mount Barker Rd, Bridgewater This stunning playground is just about everything we love about a day out in our beautiful Adelaide Hills. Coffee, stunning scenery and a fab playground for all ages. Located just below the Bridgewater Mill, the playground is fenced along the road and edges but NOT on the creek bed, which in my opinion is great because it allows kids to take there shoes off and go for a good explore in the creek bed. When we were there it was only about ankle deep with some deeper sections under the bridge, so you'll need to use your discretion based on your kids abilities and what's happening in the creek the day you visit. During winter and after a big rain, the creek can get quite deep and fast, so it will change during the year. We had a great time crossing the stone path, splashing in the water and saying hello to the resident ducks. The playground itself is not shaded, but there are lots of little nooks and crannies to sit under the shade of either the trees that surround the park or the undercover area. There is also a BBQ area…
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OK yes we are all original Adelaide Hills girls so we MAY be just a little bit bias BUT if you haven’t been up the hill for a while we definitely think you should put it on the “to do” list.
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