There’s something pretty magical about the Adelaide Hills in Spring: the air smells sweet, the creek is still flowing, and the mild days become balmy delivering the perfect excuse to book a table creekside. Add a delicious menu (including some all day offerings), 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 last year, 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 crisp spring day and loved every second. The heaters were on but the sun was out, and we were greeted by the most adorable family of ducks, complete with fluffy baby ducklings! The whole place had that relaxed, summer is coming, vibe. We tucked into croquets, buratta, gourmet pizza, a classic parmi and the most delicious noodles. Our 11 year-old, who eats like a grown olympian, gave the kids mels a run and gave them a massive thumbs up and polished off the ice cream as well as a serve of sticky date pudding!
Honestly the kids’ menu has something for everyone, with a handful of great options including the classic chicken nuggets and cheese burger for those less adventurous.
We happily road tested some magnificent new mocktails, perfect for the current season. Don’t worry, if an espresso martini is more your style, we can also personally vouch for their exceptional quality too. Lets just say it was long lunch. We based our selves here for a good few hours and had a couple of different lots of ‘hills friend’s’ drop in for a catch up. All the while, kids playing happily in sight.
If the kids haven’t exhausted themselves playing by the creek and you are in no hurry 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 which 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. In winter, it’s warm and welcoming by the fire. The new pavilion, with its insulated roof, gas fireplaces, fans 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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