Guest Tributes:
If you’re looking for a good old-fashioned beach holiday, just like Byron used to be, take a 15 minute drive to the North, to Brunswick Heads.
Bruns, as the locals call it, is everything that nearby Byron is not and all the better for it. You won’t find tarffic jams in Brunswick Heads, nor will you find chain stores or parking meters. Just like Byron Bay, you will find some great surfing beaches, as well as gorgeous coastal scenery, some fantastic restaurants and cafes and even a couple of places where you can get your tea leaves read or your fortune told.
Brunswick Heads has plenty that Byron doesn’t like a broad river running through the heart of town that’s perfect for fishing, kayaking and toddler-friendly splashing about. And a genuine, laid-back, come-as-you-are, we’re-all-equal-in-Speedos kind of holiday vibe, and where the pub is still the towns meeting place and the caravan parks have the best views.
A holiday in Bruns is all about the simple pleasures, something the local chamber has cottoned on to, appropriating the concept as it’s tourism slogan.
It’s the type of place where children can ride their bikes anywhere they want with new-found friends, old blokes chat with fishing buddies as they cast a line into the river from fold-up chairs, mothers and toddlers paddle in the shallows as a tinny or two drifts by, and teenagers completely ignore the “no diving from the bridge” signs to see who can make the biggest splash.
It’s totally pretension-free and it takes all of about six and a half minutes to start relaxing into the slow but steady pace of the place.
In Bruns, there’s a we’re-on-holiday-and-we’re-chilled-out vibe in the beer garden at the Hotel Brunswick.
For less than $20, I tuck into the biggest plate of beer-battered fish and chips I’ve ever had, while a guitarist belts out classic 1980’s hit from the stage in the corner.
Byron Bay might be only 15 minutes away, but from where I’m sitting, it could be light years.
The Sun-Herald - Feb 2010
Hi, I have been fishing Brunswick for years but have for some obscure reason have never popped in to your hotel for a feed! Two weeks ago a friend invited me down there for tea with him and his partner as he had been raving about the place. I have never had a better steak anywhere and the whole experience was faultless. I have been back four times in the last fortnight and being a publican myself have enjoyed observing how your operation runs!! We have had in-depth discussions about the hotel over dinner and can’t fault any aspect of it….nothing at all. The staff…the food….the service…..the whole bloody thing is spot on! I drive an hour and 20 to get there and its worth every bloody cent. Thankyou kindly for everything. I hope to work with you folks sometime in the future. Have spread the word in my corner of the world! See you soon.
Anthony Co - May 2009
Lovely view, lovely decor, a nice slice of Australia! We had a fantastic cuppa on the veranda.
Jenny and Friend - Canada and Brisbane - Feb 2009
Been coming to the Brunswick since I was a kid from Sydney. Now married and bringing the in laws, all the way from Scotland.
Glad to see nothing has changed, yet improved in so many ways. Great Management.
S and J Ellis - Southport QLD - Feb 2009
Ideal place to relax and unwind. Beaut place and hotel.
J and A Pope - Brisbane - Jan 2009
Great place to get away from the hustle and bustle. Cheers
Nathan and Monique - Gold Coast - Jan 2009
“Very impressive, the standard of the Hotel is second to none. The Caretakers keep the rooms very clean, plus they are the friendliest we have had to deal with in Hotel accommodation. I have been in the bar industry and the staff is the nicest and most helpful I have ever dealt with. We have really enjoyed our stay and will be returning in the near future.”
Robyn, Pat and Kathy - 2007
“We came through the area 13 years ago, didn’t stay but vowed to come back. So glad we did! We fell in love with this place as soon as we saw it The beer garden and the bands are great. Just how every Aussie pub should be. This place is very friendly and peaceful. We’ve spent 5 nights here and loved every minute. Don’t ever change, you’re perfect as you are!”
Glenn and Katie - 2007
“Thank you to Steve and the team for all their wonderful hospitality. We were referred by people in Freemantle and your reputation is well deserved, magnificent old building.”
Gregg and Leanne Cary - 2006
“Arrived with a Sydney head - left with a Brunswick heart.”
B Giuliani - 2006
“We have been coming here eating, drinking and listening to bands for the past 25 years. This is the first time we’ve stayed here, and it’s our 25th wedding anniversary. Love how this place has kept its beautiful and unpretentious style.”
Kerry and Mark Willson - 2005
“First discovered this beautifully architectural hotel last year on one of my business trips up and down the coast and is now my choice of place to stay (beats Byron!). What charm, position, and so clean.”
Hilary Davies - Sunshine Coast, QLD - 2005
“What a beautiful pub. Just calling through from Sydney for the night, a lovely atmosphere, across the road from the beach, with that old fashion feel. Had a great stay!”
The Ebbotson Family - Kurnell, NSW - 2004
“Has a genuine old world charm that the big hotel chains will never achieve. Wonderful, friendly and helpful staff. Thanks.”
Jan Marett, QLD - 2004
“Had a really great time, loved the food. Would so come back. Loved it.”
Christie Marett, QLD - 2004
“Everyone at the hotel is so friendly. It is also beautiful. Lots of things to do and places to go, my family and I want to move here. Thanks so much to everyone at the Hotel Brunswick.”
Phillip Muntz, Sheryl and Leslie Te-Rangi, QLD - 2003