Glenmore Hotel
pubgreat for groupsgreat entertainment
A heritage-listed Rocks pub with harbour views from its rooftop terrace, serving pub classics and cocktails since 1921.
4.3
(4,905 reviews)$$GoogleHappy Hour Deals
Best For
PubRooftopViewsLive MusicOutdoor SeatingTakes ReservationsHarboursideBarBrewery
96 Cumberland Street, The Rocks 2000
View on Google MapsOpening Hours
MondayToday11am – 12am
Tuesday11am – 12am
Wednesday11am – 12am
Thursday11am – 12am
Friday11am – 1am
Saturday11am – 1am
Sunday11am – 12am
The Vibe
- Three levels of atmosphere: The ground floor public bar keeps things traditional, while the first floor houses a cocktail lounge, grand dining room and pool tables. The rooftop terrace is where most people gravitate - timber benches and red industrial chairs under a retractable roof that shields drinkers from sun and rain.
- Harbour views that deliver: The 180-degree vista takes in the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, clearest from the rooftop level. It's boisterous and loud up here, especially on weekends, but that's part of the appeal.
- Heritage restoration with modern touches: The 1921 building maintains its Victorian character - restored fireplaces, original paint shades in the function rooms, snazzy tiles instead of sticky carpets. It's moved away from the tourist-trap aesthetic without losing the old-world pub feel that defines The Rocks drinking scene.
What People Love
- Rooftop positioning: The terrace consistently gets mentioned as one of Sydney's best harbour-view drinking spots. The retractable roof means it works year-round and the rustic wooden furniture suits the setting.
- Pub classics done well: The chicken parmigiana draws repeat orders, alongside shared plates like grilled octopus, polenta chips and prawn toast. The menu balances familiar pub grub with more refined options.
- Cocktail range: The first-floor lounge pours signature drinks like the Santi Muerto - tequila, limoncello, watermelon juice and bitter lemon soda. There's also a compact wine list and beers on tap for those wanting something simpler.
- Function flexibility: Multiple rooms across three levels make it popular for private events, from intimate gatherings in the Victorian side rooms to larger celebrations on the rooftop.
The Neighbourhood
- Cumberland Street position: Sitting at 96 Cumberland Street, the pub anchors this stretch of The Rocks between Circular Quay and the Harbour Bridge approaches. It's a five-minute walk from Circular Quay station and the ferry terminals.
- Tourist strip reality: The Rocks draws heavy foot traffic, especially weekends, but the Glenmore has evolved beyond the typical tourist-trap pub formula. While many heritage venues in the area lean heavily into the colonial theme, this one balances authenticity with contemporary comfort.
- Rocks dining context: The pub sits among The Rocks' mix of heritage buildings, weekend markets and harbour-front restaurants. Unlike some neighbours that cater primarily to day-trippers, the Glenmore draws a mix of tourists, CBD workers after hours and locals who appreciate the harbour views without the Circular Quay tourist premium.
Nearby in The Rocks
Ratings from Google