Alison and the Convoy pull into one of the NT’s most iconic pubs.

Three words are all it takes to bring back memories, just three simple words–Daly Waters Pub. If you have been there, the smiles come, then, “Do you remember when?”

If you haven’t been there the words are different: “It’s on my bucket list, one day for sure”

Well, our one day arrived back in April 2021 on our big trip around this country of ours. The Daly Waters Pub was a must for all six of us, you simply cannot come to that part of NT without calling in, even if all you want is one beer, or even an excellent lemon lime and bitters.

…Ordered Chaos?

We arrived in Daly Waters and were met by chaos, no other way to describe it but this chaos had a slightly ordered feel to it.

The entrance to the caravan park tells you not to come in because you have to go to the pub first to register. Okay, that means you drive past the entrance and then what? Well, just get out, leave your car and van in the street, it’s a dead end anyway.

Go to the pub and register for a night or two. We waited while three or four others registered and then it was our turn. Three vans, “We would like one night and be next to each other”. It was no problem. Honestly, they have it all organised. It did look like chaos, but it was an orderly chaos.

By the time we had paid our money the vans in front of us had disappeared and we found it was simple to turn around and head for the entrance to the caravan park. We were met there and shown to a site. Peter and I went to one spot, Rob and Jayne another while Tony and Majella had to back in. Without turning a hair, we were all on site, all together.

Fine Collections 

The ‘decor’ of the pub is amazing. There isn’t much space left to add more things, but room will always be found for another bra (suitably written on), money, business cards, hats, things, coins, it seems there is no end to the things that can be used to decorate a pub. I did feel a little sorry for the moose wearing a range of caps on his antlers.

Obviously, it had been a bit of a drive, so lunch was in order. We went to the bar and ordered lunch. Don’t take forever about this, the kitchen is closed from 2pm to around 6pm. Cool drinks were needed and I have one of the best lemon, lime and bitters ever. The food was excellent, possibly the bacon and egg sandwich winning the lunch orders.

We hung around and had an easy time of lunch, then crossed the road to Tim’s Junk Yard. What a place, jammed packed with old things, a gold coin donation, and signs telling you what will happen if you touch the displays. We didn’t.

Beaut Barra!

After an afternoon nap, it was time to go back and get ready for dinner. The biggest issue is: Do you go with the signature meal of beef and Barra or order from the menu? Majella and Tony went with beef and Barra (verdict–the best ever Barra and the steak was perfect), Rob and Jayne went with Barra (verdict–absolutely delicious, and a huge serve too). Peter and I went with Barra bites (verdict–perfect, that’s all there is to say). We all made use of the salad bar which was excellent.

In all honesty the food was exceptional, they have a very good kitchen in Daly Waters Pub, and it deserves the reputation it has.

A Bustling Oasis 

There was some entertainment on, which was very pleasant and became easy listening background music. The place was really busy, but the food and drinks were managed really well. People were collecting glasses and plates, plenty of staff doing what good staff do.

We had an exceptional time, slept very well indeed. The park was packed but it wasn’t noisy. When we pulled out the next morning the park was emptying out. As we drove the highway to Mataranka you could see the next lucky people on their way to discover that Daly Waters Pub are three of the best words you can know.