Western Australia’s regional towns are filled with hidden gems, and it isn’t just bakeries and op shops – breweries also dot the map. Here are three of our favourites, with beautifully brewed beers and satiating pub feeds.

Breweries are a much-loved asset for many Western Australian towns – even the smallest. Although many lack the name recognition of bigger city spots, they’re important hubs for locals to socialise, and integral to the local economy. Breweries are scattered throughout the small towns in WA’s south-west – some off the beaten track, but definitely worth a detour.

Nannup Brewing Co

Nannup Brewing Co is a young brewery in an old, character-filled town. Immersed in history, the local brewery was built within the town’s original garage. Original materials, like exposed roof timbers, lighting and tin dominate the aesthetic, while vintage signage and photos adorn the walls, giving the space an antiquated feel.

Never miss a Perth moment. Make sure you're subscribed to our newsletter today.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Six tap beers include house-made efforts and a few select local beers, while food is comforting and approachable. Settle in by the fire with a board game or, if the weather permits, relax out on the grass and enjoy the views.

Pop in for curry night to sample curries like lamb rogan josh or butter chicken, or try one of the weekly specials which have included slow-cooked beef cheeks in red wine sauce, coq au vin, and pork spareribs. Best enjoyed with a stout in hand while sitting on the couch by the open fire.

Tall Timbers Manjimup

Manjimup is famed for its world-class truffles, and the funky fungi are responsible for bringing tourism to the small regional town. For the locals – many of whom work in the truffle industry – it’s all about the trusty local pub, and Tall Timbers over-delivers with a menu that celebrates local produce and a range of freshly tapped (or canned, for takeaway) beers made on-site.

Menu-wise, while there are options aplenty to suit just about every palate, crispy fried parmesan truffled gnocchi jumps out as a hearty option that uses local spuds and a mascarpone, orange and saffron glaze. Topped with asparagus, rainbow chard and golden beets, this robust dish will satisfy more than the vegos.

Cowaramup Brewing Co

Just 15 minutes’ drive outside of Margaret River is the small but bustling town of Cowaramup. Situated among dairy farms and rolling hills, “Cowie” is a stone’s throw from world-class beaches and wineries, as well as home to Cowaramup Brewing Co, a beloved local spot that opened in 2006.

Close to winding roads and untouched native landscapes, the brewery has a reputation for well-made classic styles, drawing inspiration from Euro beers like hefeweizen and pilsner, plus London’s famed porter. All easily rival any of their city-slicker counterparts, with the bonus of being served in a tranquil setting.

A succinct, globetrotting menu includes pizzas and a range of small plates, but the real hero is the pub classic: fish’n’chips. Crispy, glistening pilsner batter encases perfectly cooked hake alongside beer-battered chips, house-made tartare and salad. Pairing this with a fresh, crisp pilsner is a must.

This article was originally published on May 23, 2023. It has been updated to reflect new information and remove out-of-date details.