Historic Pub Crawl: Discover Victoria’s Oldest & Most Unique Bars

📍 1022 Government Street
🚶 10-minute walk from the Oswego Hotel
🐶  Dog-friendly patio

This gold rush-era building dates back to 1885 and once housed a bank – hence the name. Today, it’s one of Victoria’s most iconic pubs, offering live music, a grand interior full of stained glass and carved wood, and an extensive whisky list. It’s easy to imagine a young bard reciting poetry here with a pint.

Try this: The Steak & Guiness Stew with a Victoria-brewed craft ale.

Photo credit: @bardandbanker on Instagram

📍 1200 Government Street
🚶 12-minute walk from the Oswego Hotel
🐶  Dog-friendly patio

Set in a heritage building from the 1890s, the Irish Times offers two levels of old-world charm, live Irish music, and hearty pub fare. It’s a multiple winner of “Irish Pub of the Year” in North America – for good reason! The woodwork, stained glass, and brass finishes make it feel like a slice of Dublin tucked into downtown Victoria. Call ahead to try and reserve the ‘McCarthy Snug’ – located within a beautiful stained glass and ornate wooden space.

Try this: A classic Guinness pour and some Bangers & Mash.

Photo credit: @irishtimespub on Instagram

📍 308 Catherine Street
🚗 6-minute drive / 20-minute walk from Oswego Hotel
🐶 Dog-friendly patio

Canada’s first brewpub, Spinnakers has been serving house-made craft beer since 1984 in a historic waterfront house dating back to 1884. Their rotating tap list, ocean views, and commitment to local ingredients make this a must-visit. Grab a seat on the patio for a sunset view, or cozy up inside near the fireplace.

Want to learn more about this historic spot? Check out our article on the top distilleries and breweries in downtown Victoria!

Try this: Their award-winning Blue Bridge Double IPA and a locally sourced charcuterie board.

Photo credit: @spinnakersbrewpub on Instagram

📍 1140 Government Street
🚶 12-minute walk from the Oswego Hotel

While not the oldest bar in Victoria, The Churchill makes the list for its unique blend of modern beer selection in a heritage setting. It’s nestled in a historic brick building and features more than 50 craft taps with an emphasis on BC breweries. The vibe? Warm, welcoming, and just the right amount of rustic.

Try this: A flight of West Coast IPAs and their crispy Brussels sprouts.

Note: While The Churchill doesn’t have a patio, Garrick’s Head Pub is just around the corner and has a dog-friendly patio with a similar level of history!

Photo credit: @thechurchillvic on Instagram

📍 506 Pandora Avenue
🚶 15-minute walk from the Oswego Hotel

Housed in a 1913 grain warehouse, Swans is a character-rich brewpub that showcases bold local beers and quirky, art-filled interiors. It’s part brewery, gallery, heritage hotel – and all good vibes. Whether you stop in for a lager or linger for a meal, it’s a memorable stop on your crawl.

For a more in-depth look at Swans, check out our post on the best breweries in Victoria!

Try this: Their Raspberry Ale with a side of house-cut fries.

Photo credit: @swansvictoria on Instagram

📍 512 Simcoe Street (James Bay)
🚶 5-minute walk from the Oswego Hotel
🐶 Dog-friendly patio

The Bent Mast is a local gem just a stone’s throw from your suite at the Oswego Hotel. Located in a converted Victorian house, this cozy neighbourhood pub offers hearty food, local beers, and a warm welcome. It’s got creaky floors, vintage charm, and a back patio that’s a secret summertime haven.

Try this: The Bent Mast Burger and Hoyne Brewing’s Dark Matter Pilsner.

Photo credit: @thebentmast on Instagram

The Bent Mast Pub

Raise a Glass to the Past

Whether you’re a history buff, a craft beer enthusiast, or just looking for a night out with ambiance, Victoria’s pub scene has something timeless to offer. Each stop on this crawl delivers its own dose of charm, from maritime heritage to gold rush glamour.

And when you’re ready to wind down? Your cozy, stylish suite at the Oswego Hotel is just a short walk away. Cheers to good taste – past and present! 🍻