Nestled in the heart of Braddon at 8 Lonsdale Street, The Civic Pub stands as one of Canberra's most beloved gaming venues, offering punters an authentic Australian pub experience combined with excellent pokies entertainment. This iconic establishment has become synonymous with quality gaming machines, hearty pub fare, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps locals and visitors returning time after time. Whether you're a seasoned pokies player or simply looking for a relaxed venue to try your luck, The Civic Pub delivers an unmatched gaming experience in the ACT.
The venue's strategic location in Braddon places it at the centre of Canberra's vibrant entertainment district, making it easily accessible for anyone seeking pokies action in the nation's capital. With its classic pub ambience, extensive menu, and dedicated gaming facilities, The Civic Pub has established itself as a go-to destination for those who appreciate the thrill of electronic gaming machines in a comfortable, unpretentious setting.
The Civic Pub has earned its reputation as one of Braddon's premier pokies destinations, offering players a solid selection of electronic gaming machines that cater to various preferences and betting ranges. The gaming area provides a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere where punters can enjoy their favourite machines without the overwhelming noise and crowds often found in larger venues. This intimate setting appeals particularly to players who prefer a quieter gaming experience where they can focus on the machines.
The venue's pokies room features modern gaming machines from leading providers, ensuring players have access to both classic favourites and newer releases. From traditional three-reel pokies to multi-line video pokies with bonus features, The Civic Pub's gaming floor caters to all types of players. The machines offer a range of denominations, allowing everyone from casual players to serious punters to find games within their budget. Whether you're comfortable with one-cent bets or prefer higher stakes, the venue accommodates all playing styles.
Gaming Machine Features | Details |
Machine Types | Video pokies, classic reels, multi-line games |
Betting Range | $0.01 to $5.00 per line |
Popular Titles | Where's the Gold, Lightning Link, 5 Dragons |
Gaming Providers | Aristocrat, IGT, Ainsworth |
Gaming Area | Upstairs dedicated pokies room |
Atmosphere | Relaxed and quiet |
Regular patrons consistently praise The Civic Pub's gaming facilities for their accessibility and comfortable environment. Reviews from pokies enthusiasts highlight the venue's strengths in creating a welcoming atmosphere that doesn't feel intimidating to newcomers, whilst still satisfying experienced players.
"The pokies room upstairs offers a nice quiet space away from the main bar area," notes one frequent visitor. "You can actually concentrate on your game without too much distraction, which I really appreciate." This sentiment echoes throughout player feedback, with many commenting on the venue's ability to balance social atmosphere with focused gaming space.
Another regular player from the Canberra area shared their experience: "I've been coming to The Civic Pub for pokies nights with mates for over three years. The machines are well-maintained, payouts seem fair, and the staff are always friendly when you need assistance. It's become our regular spot because we know we'll have a good time, whether we win or lose."
The venue receives particular praise for its customer service approach to gaming. Staff members are trained to assist players with machine questions whilst respecting the gaming experience. "The team here understands that pokies players want to be left to enjoy their games, but they're always available if you need help or have questions about a machine," explains a satisfied customer who visits weekly.
Recent reviews on pokies community forums and rating sites consistently award The Civic Pub scores of 4 out of 5 or higher, with the gaming facilities receiving specific mention. Players appreciate the venue's honest approach to gaming – there's no false advertising about jackpots or unrealistic promises, just quality machines in a comfortable environment.
Gaming industry experts who have assessed The Civic Pub's facilities note several factors that contribute to its reputation as a quality pokies venue. The selection of machines, whilst not as extensive as major clubs like Dickson Tradies, provides an excellent variety for a pub-sized operation. The focus on popular, proven titles from reputable manufacturers means players are accessing the same quality games found in larger venues.
Experts point out that The Civic Pub's gaming floor layout deserves recognition for its thoughtful design. Unlike some venues where machines are crammed together, creating a claustrophobic feel, The Civic Pub has arranged its pokies with adequate space between terminals. This layout respects player privacy whilst maintaining the social atmosphere that makes pub gaming appealing.
From a responsible gaming perspective, industry analysts note that The Civic Pub maintains appropriate signage and information about gambling help services, meeting ACT regulatory requirements whilst promoting player wellbeing. The venue's approach to responsible gaming earns positive marks from those who assess the broader gaming landscape.
Gaming Quality Assessment | Rating |
Machine Variety | 4/5 |
Gaming Floor Layout | 4.5/5 |
Machine Maintenance | 4/5 |
Staff Knowledge | 4/5 |
Responsible Gaming Support | 4.5/5 |
Overall Gaming Experience | 4/5 |
For players looking to explore other pokies options in the Braddon and surrounding Canberra area, several excellent venues operate within easy reach of The Civic Pub. Each offers its own unique atmosphere and gaming facilities, giving pokies enthusiasts plenty of choice for their entertainment.
Located right in Braddon at 8 Lonsdale Street, the Mercure Canberra operates as a hotel with gaming facilities. This venue sits virtually next door to The Civic Pub, offering convenient alternatives for pokies players staying in the area. The Mercure features a modest selection of gaming machines in a hotel setting, perfect for guests who want a quick gaming session without venturing far from their accommodation.
Situated at 16 Petrie Plaza in Canberra City (postcode 2601), the Canberra Labour Club represents a more traditional club environment for pokies enthusiasts. This establishment offers a larger gaming floor than The Civic Pub, with extensive facilities including restaurants, bars, and entertainment options alongside the pokies. Players seeking a full club experience with numerous machines will find the Labour Club an excellent alternative.
The Labour Club operates under the traditional club membership model, though visitors can typically access the venue as guests. Gaming facilities here are more extensive than pub-style venues, with dedicated pokies rooms and a greater variety of machines at different denominations.
For those willing to travel slightly further, Dickson Tradies dominates the Canberra pokies scene with approximately 400 gaming machines – making it the city's largest pokies venue. Located in the Dickson suburb, this massive club offers an entirely different scale of gaming experience. With 400 machines, Dickson Tradies provides unparalleled variety, ensuring every type of pokies player finds their preferred games.
The Tradies generates some of the highest pokies revenue per machine in Canberra, indicating its popularity among serious players. The venue features multiple gaming rooms, extensive dining options, accommodation, and entertainment facilities. For players who want the largest selection of pokies in the ACT, Dickson Tradies stands unrivalled.
Nearby Pokies Venues | Location | Approximate Distance | Machine Count | Special Features |
Mercure Canberra | 8 Lonsdale St, Braddon | 50 metres | 20-30 | Hotel convenience |
Canberra Labour Club | 16 Petrie Plaza, Canberra | 2.5 km | 100+ | Full club facilities |
Dickson Tradies | Dickson | 3.5 km | 400 | Largest in Canberra |
Casino Canberra | Canberra City | 2 km | No pokies | Table games only |
Note: Casino Canberra operates under unique ACT legislation that permits table games but not poker machines, making it distinct from other venues.
The Civic Pub's location at 8 Lonsdale Street in Braddon makes it highly accessible through various transport options. Braddon sits immediately north of Canberra's city centre, placing The Civic Pub within easy reach whether you're a local or visiting the Australian Capital Territory.
By Car: Driving to The Civic Pub is straightforward, with Lonsdale Street running through the heart of Braddon. Street parking is available along Lonsdale Street and surrounding roads, though it can be limited during peak hours (particularly Friday and Saturday evenings). Several paid parking lots operate within walking distance, offering secure parking for extended visits. The venue itself doesn't have dedicated parking, typical for inner-city pub venues in Canberra.
Public Transport: Canberra's bus network services Braddon extensively, with multiple routes stopping within a few hundred metres of The Civic Pub. The Lonsdale Street area is well-connected to major suburbs, making public transport a viable option for those who plan to enjoy a few drinks alongside their pokies session. Services run regularly throughout the day and into the evening, though frequency reduces after 9 pm.
Walking and Cycling: Braddon's inner-city location makes The Civic Pub easily accessible on foot from Canberra's CBD and surrounding suburbs like Turner, Acton, and Reid. The walk from Civic Centre takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Bicycle parking is available on Lonsdale Street, making this a popular option for environmentally conscious locals.
Taxi and Rideshare: Uber, DiDi, and traditional taxi services in Braddon are readily available. The Lonsdale Street address is well-known to drivers, and pickups from The Civic Pub are straightforward. Rideshare services prove particularly popular on weekend nights when parking becomes scarce.
The Civic Pub spans multiple levels and areas, each offering distinct atmospheres whilst maintaining the venue's overall welcoming character. Understanding the layout helps first-time visitors make the most of their experience.
The ground floor main bar serves as the social heart of The Civic Pub, featuring multiple screens showing live sports, a well-stocked bar with local and imported beers, spirits, and wines, and casual seating arrangements. This area buzzes with energy, particularly during major sporting events, making it perfect for punters who enjoy combining their pokies sessions with watching the footy or rugby.
The main bar operates from 11:30 am until late (typically midnight Sunday through Thursday, and later on weekends), providing all-day access for those seeking refreshment before or after gaming sessions. The atmosphere here is quintessentially Australian pub – relaxed, friendly, and unpretentious.
The Civic Pub's dining room accommodates up to 90 patrons and features a cosy fireplace as its centrepiece. This space offers a more refined dining experience whilst maintaining the pub's casual character. Pokies players often use the dining room for substantial meals before extended gaming sessions, with the menu offering everything from classic pub steaks to contemporary Australian dishes.
Adjacent to the main bar, the lounge provides comfortable seating for up to 40 guests. This area features another fireplace and offers a quieter alternative to the main bar. Many pokies players appreciate the lounge as a place to relax between gaming sessions or meet friends before heading upstairs to the machines.
Recent additions to The Civic Pub include the stylish Terrace Bar, featuring warm timber accents and lush greenery. This modern space attracts patrons seeking a contemporary pub atmosphere. The Mezzanine level above the Terrace Bar offers an elevated perspective and additional seating, popular with groups who want a semi-private area.
The pokies room operates on the upper level, providing a dedicated space for gaming enthusiasts. This layout successfully separates the gaming environment from the main bar areas, creating a focused atmosphere whilst remaining easily accessible. The gaming room maintains comfortable temperatures year-round and features adequate lighting that doesn't create glare on machine screens.
Venue Areas | Capacity | Key Features | Best For |
Main Bar | 60-80 | Sports screens, full bar | Social drinking, watching sports |
Dining Room | 90 | Fireplace, table service | Meals, functions |
Lounge | 40 | Quiet setting, fireplace | Relaxed drinks, conversations |
Terrace Bar | 50-60 | Modern design, greenery | Contemporary atmosphere |
Mezzanine | 30-40 | Elevated views | Groups, semi-private gatherings |
Gaming Area | 30-40 | Pokies machines | Gaming sessions |
The Civic Pub has built a strong reputation for quality pub food that extends well beyond typical bar snacks. The kitchen operates seven days a week, with extended hours on weekends accommodating both lunch and dinner crowds.
The menu showcases modern Australian pub cuisine with classic favourites executed to high standards. Steaks feature prominently and receive consistent praise in reviews, with multiple cuts available, including the 300g Angus Sirloin ($38.20) and 300g Angus Scotch Fillet ($42.20). All grilled items come with a choice of two sides and sauce, allowing customisation to personal preferences.
Schnitzel lovers have multiple options, from the classic Chicken Schnitzel ($28.20) to the popular Chicken Parma ($29.20) topped with ham, Napoli sauce, and melted cheese. The pub's schnitzels are noted for their generous size and proper crumbing technique that creates a satisfying crunch.
Seafood features strongly, with the Fish & Chips ($30.20) using quality Grenadier fillet in a light batter, the Grilled Salmon Fillet ($30.20) with creamy caper sauce, and Seafood Spaghetti ($30.20) combining prawns, calamari, and mussels. The Pot of Mussels (half kilo $24.20, full kilo $35.20) served with sourdough proves particularly popular among regulars.
For pokies players wanting something lighter between gaming sessions, the bar snacks menu offers perfect options. Sydney Rock Oysters (natural or Kilpatrick), Cheesy Garlic Bread ($11.20), Bowls of Chips or Sweet Potato Fries ($12.20), Crispy Chicken Wings ($15.20), and Fish Tacos ($20.20) provide quick, satisfying options that don't require leaving the venue.
The Caesar Salad ($22.20) and Warm Pear Salad ($22.20) cater to those seeking fresher options, whilst the famous Civic Pub Burger ($25.20) with beef patty, bacon, cheese, and all the fixings represents excellent value.
The bar stocks an extensive range of Australian and international beers, with local Canberra craft breweries featured prominently. The wine list showcases predominantly Australian wines, with particular strength in regional New South Wales and Victorian labels. Prices remain competitive, with glasses starting at $11.70 and bottles from $38.50.
Spirits and cocktails round out the beverage offerings, with standard pub cocktails available alongside premium spirit selections. The Civic Pub doesn't position itself as a cocktail bar, but maintains quality options for those who prefer mixed drinks.
Understanding The Civic Pub's operating hours helps plan your pokies session effectively. The venue operates generous hours throughout the week, accommodating both daytime and evening visitors.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 11:30 am until late (bar area)
The venue typically operates until midnight Sunday through Thursday
Friday and Saturday service extends past midnight, usually to 1:00 am or later, depending on patronage
Kitchen Hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 11:30 am – 9:00 pm
Friday to Saturday: 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
These extended kitchen hours ensure pokies players can enjoy quality meals throughout their visit, whether arriving for lunch or staying into the evening. Late-night visitors should note that whilst the bar remains open after kitchen closure, food options become limited to simpler bar snacks.
Contact Details:
Phone: (02) 6248 6488
Email: admin@civicpub.com.au
Address: 8 Lonsdale Street, Braddon ACT 2612
Website: civicpub.com.au
The venue accepts bookings for dining, particularly recommended for Friday and Saturday evenings when the dining room fills quickly. Pokies players don't need to book for gaming area access, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Braddon's reputation as one of Canberra's most vibrant suburbs means The Civic Pub sits surrounded by excellent amenities and attractions. This location enhances the overall experience, particularly for visitors combining pokies entertainment with other activities.
Dining and Drinking: Lonsdale Street and the surrounding Braddon area host numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars. Assembly (The People's Pub) operates nearby, offering another pub option. Multiple cafes provide excellent coffee for those needing a caffeine boost before or after gaming sessions.
Shopping: Braddon's boutique shopping district sits within easy walking distance, featuring local designers, bookshops, and specialty stores. The Canberra Centre shopping mall is approximately 1.5 kilometres away, accessible via a pleasant walk through the city centre.
Accommodation: Several hotels operate in Braddon and the immediate surrounds, including the adjacent Mercure Canberra. This proximity makes The Civic Pub particularly convenient for visitors to Canberra who want pokies entertainment within walking distance of their accommodation.
Cultural Attractions: The Australian National University lies just a few kilometres west, whilst Canberra's major cultural institutions (National Gallery, National Museum, Parliament House) are all within a 10-15-minute drive. Many visitors combine pokies sessions at The Civic Pub with broader Canberra sightseeing.
Recreation: Haig Park borders Braddon to the north, providing green space for walks. The area's proximity to the city centre means excellent public transport links to sporting venues, including GIO Stadium and Manuka Oval.
Unlike traditional clubs that require membership, The Civic Pub operates as a licensed pub, meaning anyone over 18 years of age can access all facilities, including the gaming area. This open-access policy appeals to visitors and locals who prefer not to commit to club memberships while still enjoying quality pokies entertainment.
The pub doesn't charge entry fees or require sign-up processes. Walk-ins are welcome throughout operating hours, making spontaneous pokies sessions entirely possible. This accessibility distinguishes The Civic Pub from larger club venues that maintain membership databases and entry requirements.
Additional Services:
Free WiFi: Available throughout the venue
Gift Vouchers: Purchasable online or in-person, perfect for locals wanting to share The Civic Pub experience
Function Facilities: Private dining room available for bookings, plus the Terrace Bar and Mezzanine for larger events
TAB Facilities: For those who enjoy sports betting alongside pokies
Outdoor Areas: Multiple spaces for smokers and those preferring fresh air
The venue maintains high standards of cleanliness throughout, with regular cleaning schedules covering all areas, including the gaming room. Staff are trained in responsible service of alcohol and responsible gambling practices, ensuring a safe environment for all patrons.
Australian pokies venues, including The Civic Pub, operate in Australian Dollars (AUD), and understanding the pricing structure helps manage gaming budgets effectively. The Civic Pub's pokies machines accept various denominations, giving players control over their spending.
Gaming Costs: Machine denominations typically range from $0.01 to $5.00 per line, with most machines offering between 1 and 50 paylines. This means minimum bets can start as low as $0.01 per spin on penny pokies, whilst maximum bets on multi-line games can reach $250 or more per spin. Most casual players are comfortable betting between $1 and $10 per spin, finding this range offers entertaining gameplay without excessive risk.
The Civic Pub doesn't charge any fees for using gaming machines beyond the actual bets placed. There are no membership fees, no entry charges, and no service fees that some venues attempt to implement. What you bet is what you pay, keeping the gaming experience transparent.
Food and Beverage Pricing: Menu prices position The Civic Pub competitively within Canberra's pub dining scene. Main courses range from $22.20 to $42.20, representing fair value for the quality and portion sizes provided. Beer prices align with standard Canberra pub rates, with schooners typically $8-12 depending on the variety.
A note on pricing: Australian pubs implement a 15% surcharge on public holidays to cover additional staff costs. This surcharge applies to all menu items and beverages on public holidays but doesn't affect gaming machine operations.
For international visitors or those new to Australian gaming culture, understanding pokies' role in Australian social life provides valuable context. Poker machines, universally called "pokies" in Australia, are deeply embedded in the nation's entertainment landscape. The ACT, like most Australian jurisdictions, regulates pokies strictly whilst allowing them in licensed venues, including pubs and clubs.
The Civic Pub represents a traditional Australian approach to pokies – integrated into a broader social venue rather than existing as a standalone gaming hall. This model encourages responsible gaming within a social context, where players can enjoy machines whilst maintaining connections with friends and the broader pub atmosphere.
Australian pokies differ somewhat from international pokie machines. They typically feature higher Return to Player (RTP) percentages than many overseas jurisdictions, generally ranging from 85% to 98%. ACT regulations ensure machines meet minimum RTP standards, protecting players from excessively tight games. The Civic Pub's machines comply with all ACT gaming regulations, providing fair gameplay certified by regulatory authorities.
No, The Civic Pub operates as a public hotel and doesn't require membership. Anyone aged 18 or over can access the gaming facilities without signing up for memberships or paying entry fees. Simply walk in during operating hours and head to the pokies area.
The gaming machines at The Civic Pub accept various denominations ranging from $0.01 to $5.00 per line. Most machines offer multiple payline options, allowing players to adjust their total bet per spin according to their comfort level and budget.
Yes, ATM facilities are available within The Civic Pub for convenient cash access. However, responsible gambling practices recommend setting a budget before arriving and avoiding the temptation to withdraw additional funds during gaming sessions.
The Civic Pub maintains a flexible approach to dining and gaming. Whilst the gaming area itself has specific food and beverage policies, players can easily move between the pokies room and the main dining areas. Many players enjoy meals in the dining room before or after gaming sessions, or pop down to the bar for drinks between pokies play.
Weekday afternoons (Monday to Thursday, 2 pm-6 pm) typically offer the quietest gaming environment, with fewer crowds and better machine availability. Weekend mornings (Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 am-2 pm) also tend to be quieter than evening sessions. Friday and Saturday nights represent the busiest periods, when the entire venue fills with patrons.
The Civic Pub maintains a casual dress code appropriate for a relaxed pub environment. Smart casual attire is always acceptable, whilst extremely casual wear like thongs (flip-flops), singlets, or excessively revealing clothing may be discouraged. Generally, if you're dressed appropriately for a nice casual pub, you'll have no issues.
Yes, The Civic Pub displays information about gambling support services, including Gambling Help Online and the ACT Gambling Counselling Service. Staff are trained to recognise problem gambling signs and can provide information about self-exclusion programs and support services. The venue takes responsible gambling seriously and encourages patrons to gamble within their means.
As per ACT legislation, smoking is prohibited in all indoor areas, including the pokies room. Designated outdoor smoking areas are available, and players can easily move between the gaming room and smoking areas as needed. The venue maintains comfortable outdoor spaces for smokers who want to take breaks from gaming.
