Bathurst Pub Tour

Bathurst, a quaint town located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, may be small in size but it is big on charm. In addition to its historical landmarks and natural beauty, Bathurst is known for its lively pub scene. These establishments have not only stood the test of time, but they have also become an integral part of the community’s social fabric. Let’s take a closer look at the rich history, top-rated pubs, social significance, pub food scene, and the relationship between Bathurst’s pubs and local breweries.

As one of South Africa’s oldest towns, Bathurst has a colorful history dating back to the early 1800s. Pubs, or “public houses,” have played a significant role in the town’s development and have served as gathering places for locals and visitors alike. These establishments have witnessed the town’s growth and have their own fascinating stories to tell.

The Pub Tour : The Map

Click here for directions to all the establishments below.

1. The Porcupine – SummerHill Farm
The Porcupine is a longstanding pub and restaurant in Bathurst. Recently refurbished and relaunched the place has quickly become a favorite drinking spot with the locals. Weekly events like darts on Wednesday and karaoke on Fridays, The Porcupine serves a range of local beers and spirits. The restaurant can seat up to 100 people and delicious bar foods are served.

• Local SAB Quartz
• Pool table and foosball
• Excellent Bar Food
• Smoking bar
• 50 seater restaurant and conference area

2. The Pig and Whistle
The oldest licensed bar in South Africa, the Pig and Whistle is in the centre of Bathurst and hosts weekly events like steak night on Mondays and Toasty Tuesdays. The Pig is well known to have have live music over the weekend that many visitors and locals enjoy. They serve local craft beer and gin and have a huge range of beers and spirits in bottles.

• Craft Beer on Tap
• Gin on Tap
• Whiskey Bar
• Pool table
• Non smoking
• WIFI in bar area
• Great bar food and snacks

3. The Bathurst Arms
The Bathurst Arms has been running for decades and is a well known haunt for many locals for its live music and support of local talent in the Village Green. The pub grub served up Zee Delicious is as the name says, delicious, and is affordable on the pocket. Sit outside in the gardens and walk around the beautiful Village Green garden while sipping a beer or two.

• Good selection of local beer
• Smoking section
• Board and card games
• Excellent pub grub

4. The Ploughman Pub
Situated just outside Bathurst on the way to Grahamstown, The Ploughman pub is a great bar for a quick drink after seeing all the historic artifacts of agricultural in the Bathurst Museum. The pub has been around for 15 years and hosts functions like the Bathurst Dog Show and Friends of Waters Meeting monthly talks.

5. Emzini LifeStyle Centre
Based on the fringes of Bathurst in Nolukhanyo, Emzini boasts the biggest sound system in Bathurst. A wide range of imported beers and spirits Emzini hosts regular music events, comedy shows and the like for top talent and local artists. it serves delicious local foods in their restaurant and the views of the sunsetting cannot be beat.

Pubs as Community Gathering Spots

Bathurst’s pubs are more than just places to grab a drink or enjoy a meal – they are integral to the town’s social scene. These establishments serve as meeting points for friends, neighbors, and even tourists, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

Locals often gather at their favorite pubs to catch up on the latest happenings, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. It’s not uncommon to see familiar faces exchanging warm greetings and to hear laughter echoing through the pub walls.

As the evening sets in, the pubs come alive with vibrant conversations and lively debates. Groups of friends huddle around wooden tables, discussing everything from politics to sports, and even the latest gossip. The atmosphere is electric, with the clinking of glasses and the clatter of cutlery adding to the symphony of voices.

These pubs also serve as a haven for weary travelers, providing them with a place to unwind and connect with fellow explorers. Strangers become friends over a pint, sharing travel stories and exchanging tips on the best places to visit in the area. The pubs become a melting pot of cultures, where people from all walks of life come together, united by their love for good company and a welcoming atmosphere.