There's something about a country pub that just feels right. And in Kilmore, that place is the Red Lion.
After sitting quiet for nearly five years, the doors have opened again. Whether you're a local or visiting the region, it's time to pull up a chair.
Back and better than ever
The Red Lion on Sydney Street has always been a landmark, not just for its location, but for the way it brings people together. After a major refurbishment and a lot of care, the pub is open once more and already buzzing.
From the newly refreshed beer garden, named 1856 after the year the Red Lion was built, to the updated dining spaces featuring artwork from the Kilmore Art Society, everything feels familiar yet renewed. It's clean, cosy, full of character, and ready to be your local again.
What's new (and what's back)
Kim and her team have led this revival, keeping the heart of the pub intact while giving it the polish it needed. Some of the changes include:
- updated interiors that preserve the charm
- a revamped beer garden with a large screen for summer days - and it's dog-friendly, so families with pets are welcome
- a modern kitchen led by Chef Andy, serving classics (the pork belly comes highly recommended)
- a focus on community, events and local talent, including kids' movie nights during school holidays and live music
And for those who remember the legendary "Parma o'Clock" nights - they're back too. Arrive at 6:45 pm and enjoy a quality parma for $18.45. It's a little game, a lot of fun, and a very good deal.
More than just a pub
The Red Lion's reopening isn't only about food and drinks, it's about reconnecting people. This vision has always been central to venue manager Kim: making the Red Lion a place where everyone feels welcome.
Whether you're a Mitchell local stopping in for a drink, a Melbourne day-tripper looking for an authentic country pub, a family wanting a relaxed and warm dining experience, or someone who simply enjoys the classic pub atmosphere, this is your place.
Why visit
Kilmore is just over an hour from Melbourne, close enough for a day trip, yet far enough to feel like an escape. With the Red Lion open again, it's the perfect start, stop, or end point for a regional adventure.
Come for a parma and a pint, stay for the atmosphere. Enjoy the fireplace in winter or relax under the trees in 1856 on a summer day. With live music, The Big Red local beer on tap, and a welcoming environment, it's an experience that feels genuine.
Plan your visit
The Red Lion isn't just open - it's alive again.
If you've been waiting for a reason to visit Kilmore, or simply want to rediscover your new favourite pub, this is it. Drop in, say g'day, and stay a while.
