Ghost Stories and Gun Fights at the Daly Waters Pub

The Daly Waters Pub is set just outside of Darwin and offers the perfect pit stop if you’re exploring the red heart of Australia.

Not only can you knock back some local craft beer and tuck into seasonal produce, but you can leave a piece of yourself there, too.

Ever since the 80s, patrons of the pub have left behind their mark, an item of clothing or a little souvenir they’ve picked up along the way. It began with a drinking bet between a coach driver and his bus load of female passengers. After losing a bet on how much they could drink, the ladies took off their bras and hung them from the bar. Today, women still leave their bras behind. However, they aren’t the only sort of treasure that’s plastered on the walls of this pub.

The History of the Daly Waters Pub

The history of the pub is a gem, too. Dating back to 1930, it was originally built by Bill and Henrietta Pierce. Since then it has been the backdrop for numerous shootings, murders, and cattle stampedes.

Station owners have threatened to burn the place down and many a brawl has taken place behind closed doors. And on the dusty streets outside!

Today, there are no longer any shootouts or murders that take place there. Instead, gun fights have been exchanged for ghost stories thanks to the unusual goings-on at night. It is thought there is a ghost called Sarah who was murdered by her husband after having an affair with the gardener – so keep your eyes and ears peeled.

Food at the Daly Waters Pub

The treasures extend to the kitchen at the Daly Waters Pub. Here the talented chefs serve up all sorts of local, seasonal dishes to fill your belly. The menu is expansive, featuring a little something for everyone. Whether you fancy trying kangaroo loin, a crocodile slider, or a chicken schnitzel you’ll be happy.

Hundreds of travellers stop off here for a hearty meal before going on to Darwin or Alice Springs. Try the beef ‘n’ barra barbie, which is a local favourite every night in the winter months. Here, you can tuck into local tender steaks served with Barramundi that’s caught in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Don’t forget to try the pub’s speciality either – the fresh, warm damper bread, which makes the perfect side to any dish.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.