An Entertaining Night Exploring Sydney’s Haunted Pubs

If you’re fascinated by stories of ghosts, mysterious disappearances, and historic pubs, the Sydney Haunted Pub Tour & Cellar Visit offers a unique evening of storytelling wrapped in a lively pub crawl. For just $26.31 per person, you’ll spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes wandering through some of Sydney’s most haunted historic pubs, listening to tales of sailor vanishings, the Woman In Black, and spirits lurking in the shadows. Led by friendly guides, the tour starts at 143 George St in The Rocks at 7:30 pm — a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. What makes this experience appealing? First, the authentic stories and atmospheric pubs that make history feel alive (and a little spooky). Second, the chance to visit an original cellar at The Waterloo Hotel—an atmospheric spot said to host some restless spirits.
That said, a possible consideration is the tour’s modest duration—it’s short and fast-paced, so if you’re looking for a deep dive into Sydney’s ghost lore or a leisurely evening, you might find it quick. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, local lore, and a bit of fun with their nightlife. It’s especially ideal for those interested in Australia’s maritime past and the darker corners of Sydney’s oldest neighborhoods.
Key Points
- Authentic Haunted Stories: Hear tales of sailors, the Woman In Black, and other local legends.
- Historic Pubs: Visit three pubs with genuine history and haunted reputations.
- Visit the Cellar: Access to the original cellar at The Waterloo Hotel, known for its ghostly activity.
- Affordable Price: Great value for a guided, atmospheric experience.
- Short & Engaging: Perfect for a quick evening activity, especially if you’re in Sydney for a few days.
- Small Group: Max 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and interactive tour.
For more beverage-focused experiences, here's what we've covered in Sydney
A Deep Dive into Sydney’s Haunted Pubs & Cellars

Setting the Scene in The Rocks
We loved the way the tour kicks off at 143 George St in The Rocks, one of Sydney’s oldest and most storied neighborhoods. The area’s history as the city’s first seaport gives it a naturally haunted vibe. As we meet our guide, Emma, she instantly sets the tone with stories of seedy underworld characters and sailors who mysteriously vanished. The atmosphere here is lively yet tinged with a sense of the past—crackling with ghostly whispers that seem to echo through the cobblestone streets.
Visiting the Most Haunted Pubs
The tour includes stops at three historic pubs, each with its own spooky reputation. Our first was a pub haunted by a pianist—a cozy, dimly lit spot where, according to stories, a spectral musician still plays haunting melodies late at night. We learned that some patrons have felt cold spots or seen fleeting shadows that suggest ghostly presence.
Next, we moved on to a drinking den at the center of an epidemic—an eerie place where tragic events once unfolded. Guides share tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained noises, giving you a tangible sense of the dark history that hangs over these establishments.
The third pub is a murder hotspot, where stories of violent deaths and restless spirits abound. We appreciated how the guide balanced storytelling with historical facts, making it clear that these aren’t just tales for thrills but window into Sydney’s gritty past.
The Cellar at The Waterloo Hotel
The real highlight was a visit to the original cellar at The Waterloo Hotel. This underground space is renowned for its haunted reputation. As we descended into the cool darkness, the guide explained that the cellar has seen its fair share of ghostly activity—cold spots, unexplained sounds, and perhaps the lingering presence of former patrons. We felt a shiver when she mentioned recent reports of unexplainable footsteps and shadowy figures. This part of the tour is especially immersive, offering a tangible connection to Sydney’s spectral past.
- Bondi Beach and Beyond private tour
- #1 Blue Mountains Tour Scenic World Waterfalls Wildlife Park
- Blue Mountain: Small-Group Tour with Lunch & Scenic World
- 14-Day Sydney to Cairns, Fraser, Whitsundays Comfort Tour
- 1/2 day Sydney Sightseeing and Bondi Beach Tour
- 30-minute Private Sydney Harbour Helicopter Tour for 2
Practical Details and Tour Experience
The entire journey is short, sweet, and packed with stories. The tour’s price of just over $26 offers excellent value, especially considering the access to these historic pubs and the cellar. The tour is run by Lantern Ghost Tours, a reputable provider, and is limited to 20 travelers, which helps foster a friendly, engaging environment.
The tour is accessible for those with moderate physical fitness because it involves walking between venues. It’s mostly on level streets and inside pubs, so it’s manageable even in cooler evening weather. Since the tour ends back at the starting point, you can easily continue exploring or grab a late drink at one of the pubs if you wish.
What Travelers Say
As this tour currently has no reviews, we rely on its detailed description and similar ghost tour experiences. The emphasis on authentic, historic pubs and the access to an original cellar suggests a genuine atmosphere. The focus on local legends like the Woman In Black and sailors makes it appealing for those interested in maritime and colonial history.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and nightlife lovers who want a laid-back, atmospheric evening. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy storytelling and local lore but don’t want a long or physically demanding outing. Families with older children or adults looking for a fun, spooky night out will find it a charming addition to their Sydney itinerary.
It’s less ideal if you’re seeking a comprehensive haunted history or a ghost-hunting adventure—this is more about storytelling in a lively pub setting with a touch of the supernatural.
Final Thoughts
The Sydney Haunted Pub Tour & Cellar Visit offers an engaging way to explore the city’s darker side without taking yourself too seriously. It’s a well-balanced mix of history, local legend, and atmospheric pub hopping—all for an accessible price. The visit to the cellar adds an extra layer of authenticity, making it stand out among ghost tours.
You’ll love the way the stories connect to Sydney’s maritime past and the historic pubs, creating a vivid picture of the city’s colorful, sometimes spooky, history. The small group size makes it intimate and lively, and the overall tone keeps things fun rather than frightening, perfect for an evening of lighthearted ghostly tales.
This tour is best suited for those wanting a quick, authentic glimpse into Sydney’s haunted taverns, especially if you enjoy a good story and a drink in historic surroundings. If you’re after a memorable, spirited night that combines local history with a touch of the supernatural, this is a fine choice.
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, it’s generally aimed at adults interested in ghost stories and historic pubs. Children or sensitive travelers might find some stories a bit spooky.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.
Are the pubs accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking between venues, mostly on level streets, so it should be manageable for those with moderate physical fitness but might not be suitable for anyone with significant mobility challenges.
What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.
Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there an age limit for this tour?
The information doesn’t specify an age limit, but it’s generally designed for adult audiences interested in ghost stories and pubs.
To sum it up, the Sydney Haunted Pub Tour & Cellar Visit offers a fun, accessible, and atmospheric glimpse into Sydney’s spooky side. Whether you’re a history lover, a fan of ghost stories, or simply seeking a lively evening, this tour balances storytelling and spirit in a way that’s memorable, authentic, and worth the modest price.
More Drinking Tours in Sydney
More Tours in Sydney
More Tour Reviews in Sydney
More Sydney experiences we've covered
- Gems of Sydney Private Walking Tour
- Explore Bondi Beach In A Series Of Cryptic Clues
- Explore The Rocks Sydney In A Series Of Fun Cryptic Clues
- Private Luxury Tour: Tastes of the Hunter Valley
- Blue Mountains Luxury Tour from Sydney
- Private Sydney City and Bondi Beach Half Day Tour
- Sydney’s Hidden Gems Self Guided City Tour
- Journey Beyond Sydney Harbour Dining Cruise
- Hunter Valley Boutique Wine Tour with 3 Tastings | From Sydney
- Hunter Valley Escape A Day of Wine Art and Aussie Countryside
- Sydney Icons & Bondi Half Day Private Tour
- Blue Mountains Small Group Tour with Lunch, Zoo and Scenic World
