MCG, Melbourne - Your Matchday Guide

One of the most famous sporting arenas in the world, the MCG will host the second test against the Wallabies on July 26. Expect a massive crowd and unforgettable atmosphere in this 100,000-capacity coliseum of sport. The MCG's prime location in Richmond means it's incredibly well-served by Melbourne's renowned pub culture. The surrounding streets are dotted with classic pubs, sports bars, and modern establishments, providing an abundance of choices for fans looking for a pint and a bite before or after the game.

Best Guinness Venues Near The MCG

Duke of Wellington Hotel, Melbourne

If there’s one place that lives and breathes rugby during the Lions Tour, it’s The Duke. Just a short 20 minute walk from the MCG, this is Melbourne’s oldest licensed pub, but don’t let the history fool you. On game day, it’s packed with energy, full pints, and a crowd that seriously knows its sport.

With 17 screens and Guinness flowing like it’s a Test match in Cardiff, The Duke is the kind of place where fans come early and stay well after the final whistle. Whether you're rolling in with your crew pre-game or looking for a lively spot to watch every play, this one's hard to beat. The Lions Tour only comes around every 12 years. Make it count.

Transport Hotel, Melbourne

You can’t get much closer to the action than Transport. Sitting right on Fed Square and just a brisk walk away from the MCG, this place is built for the big moments, and the Lions Tour is about as big as it gets.

With nine screens scattered through the venue, Guinness pouring cold from the taps, and a prime people-watching perch over the square, it’s got the kind of energy that kicks in before kickoff and lasts long after full time. Whether you’re soaking in the crowd pre-match or pulling up a seat to watch every phase play out, Transport brings the atmosphere to match the occasion.

Mitre Tavern, Melbourne

Hidden away down Bank Place, the Mitre is one of Melbourne’s places to grab a Guinness. It’s one of the city’s oldest pubs, full of old-school charm, dark wood, and cosy corners that feel more Dublin than Docklands.

For Lions fans, it’s a must visit before or after the game (or both). Walk through the doors and find a proper pint of Guinness poured with care, and a bar full of legends. If you’re looking to swap the stadium chaos for something a little more laid-back but no less passionate, the Mitre’s where you want to be.

The Irish Times, Melbourne

Walk through the doors and you’re practically in Dublin. The Irish Times is built for moments like the Lions Tour, dark wood interiors, crackling atmosphere, a bar that knows its rugby, and Guinness flowing like it’s Six Nations season. Even better, walk out the door, 20 minutes down the road and there's the 'G where you can watch the action live.

Expect full match coverage on screen, sound on, and a crowd of locals, expats and travelling fans all roaring at the same moments. Whether you’re parked at the bar or tucked into a booth with a round of pints, this is as close as you’ll get to watching the Tour from a proper pub back home.

Elephant & Wheelbarrow, Melbourne

Right in the thick of it in the city, the Elephant & Wheelbarrow has long been a go-to for Brits abroad and local rugby heads alike. During the Lions Tour, It’s full to the brim with fans, pints, and big game energy.

Classic pub grub, cold Guinness, and all the action live on screen, this place does matchdays properly. Whether you're pre-loading before heading 20 minutes to the ‘G or settling in for the whole game with a few mates and a few more rounds, The Elephant is loud, lively, and ready for every try, tackle and turnover.

PJ O'Brien's, Southbank

PJ’s reckons they're the best Irish pub in Melbourne, and honestly, they’ve got a point. Just across the river and 20 minutes from the 'G, this place goes off when the Lions are in town. Guinness? Flowing steady. Crowd? Loud and ready. Screens? Sorted.

Whether you’re piling in after work, fuelling up before the walk to the ‘G, or sticking around to watch the full 80 with a pint in hand, PJ’s has you covered. It’s got that proper pub feel, with just the right amount of chaos. If you’re chasing a bit of home (or just love a cracking matchday atmosphere), this is your Southbank HQ for the Tour.