The Old England Hotel stands as a magnificent landmark at 459 Lower Heidelberg Road, Heidelberg VIC 3084, serving the Melbourne community since 1848. This multi-award-winning establishment has successfully blended its rich historical heritage with modern entertainment facilities, particularly attracting gaming enthusiasts who seek quality pokies machines alongside exceptional dining and hospitality experiences. The venue's reputation as one of Victoria's premier destinations for electronic gaming machines draws visitors from across Melbourne and beyond, offering 105 state-of-the-art pokies in a comfortable, responsible gaming environment.
Gaming enthusiasts recognise The Old England Hotel as a top-tier destination for pokies entertainment in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. The venue operates 105 electronic gaming machines, making it one of the larger pokies facilities in the Heidelberg area. As a Tattersall's venue, the hotel maintains high standards in gaming equipment and responsible gambling practices, ensuring patrons enjoy a premium experience with the latest machine technology and popular game titles.
According to gaming revenue data, The Old England Hotel generated approximately AUD $13.2 million in gaming revenue during the 2008-09 financial year, with figures remaining consistently strong at around AUD $12.1 million in subsequent years. These impressive numbers reflect the venue's popularity among pokies players and the quality of gaming experience offered. The gaming lounge provides a dedicated space where players can enjoy their favourite machines in comfort, with modern amenities and attentive service enhancing the overall experience.
The pokies selection includes various popular titles and gaming styles, from classic three-reel games to modern video pokies with bonus features, progressive jackpots, and immersive themes. Players can find machines at different denomination levels, accommodating both casual players and high-stakes enthusiasts. The gaming floor layout ensures adequate spacing between machines, allowing players to enjoy their gaming sessions with privacy and comfort.
Player feedback regarding the pokies facilities at The Old England Hotel presents a mixed but generally positive picture. Many gaming enthusiasts appreciate the venue's spacious gaming lounge, which is thoughtfully separated from the main dining and bar areas. This design consideration allows families to enjoy the hotel's restaurants while providing a dedicated space for gaming patrons.
One reviewer on Pokies Near Me noted that the venue maintains "an average rating of 4.1 out of 1762 reviews," with recent ratings ranging from 4 to 5 stars. Players particularly appreciate the comfortable seating, good lighting, and the overall ambience of the gaming area. The hotel's commitment to responsible gambling is evident through clear signage, self-exclusion programs, and staff trained to assist patrons who may need support.
However, some reviews on TripAdvisor have been more critical, with one patron describing the venue as catering primarily to "old people to play the pokies" with "cheap flavourless meals." This perspective, while representing one opinion, highlights the venue's traditional customer base and suggests that the hotel attracts a regular clientele of mature gaming enthusiasts who value consistency and familiar surroundings.
The consensus among regular players indicates that The Old England Hotel provides a reliable, comfortable gaming environment with fair machines and reasonable odds. The venue's long-standing reputation in the community, combined with its Victorian Gaming Commission licensing, assures players of legitimate, regulated gaming operations.
From a gaming industry standpoint, The Old England Hotel represents a successful model of integrated hospitality and gaming operations. Gaming consultants recognise the venue's strategic positioning in Heidelberg, a suburb with established demographic patterns that support regular gaming patronage. The hotel's 105 machines place it in the upper tier of Victorian pokies venues outside the Crown Casino complex.
Industry experts note that the venue's sustained revenue generation over multiple years indicates strong machine performance and effective marketing to its target demographic. The hotel's approach of combining quality dining options with gaming facilities creates a destination venue rather than a purely gaming-focused establishment. This integration helps attract a broader customer base while maintaining responsible gambling standards.
Gaming technology specialists observe that venues like The Old England Hotel typically refresh their machine offerings regularly, introducing new game titles and updated technology to maintain player interest. The investment in maintaining 105 machines requires significant capital commitment, demonstrating the hotel's long-term dedication to its gaming operations.
The responsible gambling framework implemented at the hotel aligns with Victorian gaming regulations, including mandatory pre-commitment features, reality check reminders, and prominent display of gambling helpline information. These measures reflect industry best practices and regulatory compliance.
Players visiting The Old England Hotel often inquire about alternative gaming venues in the surrounding area. Heidelberg and neighbouring suburbs host several notable pokies destinations, each offering distinct characteristics and gaming experiences.
Sir Henry Barkly Hotel (also known as Barklys Hotel) stands at 92 Burgundy Street, Heidelberg VIC 3084, approximately 1.2kilometress from The Old England Hotel. This renovated establishment operates 65 gaming machines in a modern industrial-style setting. Gaming revenue data indicates the venue generated approximately AUD $7.57 million annually, making it a substantial but smaller operation compared to The Old England Hotel. The Sir Henry Barkly Hotel features a gaming area suitably separated from family dining spaces, earning praise from reviewers for its family-friendly approach while maintaining quality gaming facilities. The venue opens seven days a week with extended hours, providing flexibility for gaming enthusiasts.
Ivanhoe Hotel at 120 Upper Heidelberg Road, Ivanhoe VIC 3079 operates 100 pokies machines, positioning it as another major gaming venue in the region. Located approximately 2 kilometres from The Old England Hotel, this Tattersall's venue generated around AUD $11.9 million in gaming revenue during peak years. The Ivanhoe Hotel offers extended operating hours from 8:00 AM to 4:00 AM, providing considerable flexibility for players. The venue combines gaming facilities with bistro dining, sports bar amenities, and TAB betting facilities, creating a comprehensive entertainment destination.
Watsonia RSL in the City of Banyule operates 103 gaming machines, offering club-style gaming amenities with member benefits and community focus. RSL clubs traditionally provide a different atmosphere compared to hotels, often attracting a membership base that values the club's community contributions and veteran support programs.
Greensborough RSL represents another significant gaming venue in the broader Heidelberg region, offering club-style facilities with extensive pokies selections and member-focused amenities. This venue appeals to players who prefer the RSL club environment with its emphasis on community connection and member benefits.
The table below compares key gaming venues near The Old England Hotel:
|
Venue Name |
Location |
Number of Machines |
Approximate Annual Revenue |
Distance from Old England |
|
The Old England Hotel |
459 Lower Heidelberg Rd, Heidelberg |
105 |
AUD $13.2M |
- |
|
Sir Henry Barkly Hotel |
92 Burgundy St, Heidelberg |
65 |
AUD $7.57M |
1.2 km |
|
Ivanhoe Hotel |
120 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe |
100 |
AUD $11.9M |
2.0 km |
|
Watsonia RSL |
Watsonia, Banyule |
103 |
Not publicly disclosed |
3.5 km |
Each venue offers distinct advantages, but The Old England Hotel's combination of machine quantity, established reputation, historic character, and integrated dining facilities makes it a preferred destination for many gaming enthusiasts in the region.
The Old England Hotel enjoys excellent accessibility from across Melbourne's northern suburbs and the wider metropolitan area. Located at the corner of Lower Heidelberg Road and Yarra Street in Heidelberg, the venue benefits from multiple transportation options.
By Car: Motorists can easily reach the hotel via Lower Heidelberg Road, a major arterial route connecting Heidelberg to Ivanhoe, Fairfield, and surrounding suburbs. From Melbourne CBD, the journey typically takes 20-25 minutes via Hoddle Street and the Eastern Freeway, exiting at Chandler Highway and continuing to Heidelberg. Ample parking is available on-site, with additional street parking in the surrounding area. The venue's prominent corner position makes it easily identifiable for first-time visitors.
By Public Transport: The hotel is well-served by public transport. Heidelberg Railway Station (on the Hurstbridge line) is approximately 1.2 kilometres away, representing a 15-minute walk or short taxi ride. Several bus routes service Lower Heidelberg Road and nearby streets, including routes connecting to Heidelberg, Ivanhoe, Preston, and surrounding suburbs. Tram Route 86 terminates in Heidelberg and provides convenient access from Bourke Street in the CBD.
By Taxi or Rideshare: Taxi and rideshare services (Uber, DiDi) regularly service the Heidelberg area, with the hotel's prominent location making it a straightforward destination for drivers. The address 459 Lower Heidelberg Road is readily recognised in navigation systems.
Beyond its extensive gaming operations, The Old England Hotel offers numerous features that enhance the overall visitor experience. The venue comprises multiple distinct areas, each serving different hospitality functions while maintaining the building's historic character.
The Bistro represents the hotel's primary dining destination, serving modern Australian cuisine with daily chef specials and promotional menus throughout the year. The bistro operates for both lunch and dinner service, with a special lunch menu available Monday through Friday. Diners can enjoy award-winning food in a relaxed atmosphere, with the bistro having earned recognition as Victoria's Best Metropolitan Hotel Bistro in 2000, 2001, 2003, 2008, 2011, and 2012. The extensive menu caters to diverse tastes, from classic Australian pub favourites to contemporary dishes incorporating seasonal ingredients.
The Dining Room provides a more formal dining experience with table service and a 10% service charge. This elegant space proves ideal for special occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, business lunches, and intimate celebrations. The Dining Room offers the same award-winning cuisine as the bistro but in a more refined setting with attentive waiter service. Bookings are recommended and can be made by calling (03) 9459 1166.
The e.Bar (Front Bar) serves as a casual social hub with quality café-style menu offerings, including pizzas and snacks available throughout the day. This area features large-screen TVs broadcasting major sporting events, including AFL football, tennis, and cricket. The bar hosts regular entertainment, including poker tournaments every Tuesday night (7:30 PM, $35 buy-in through World Pro Poker) and trivia nights every Wednesday. Pool tables provide additional entertainment, with free pool offered on Monday nights during extended Happy Hour. The bar operates from 12:00 PM until late Monday through Saturday, with Sunday hours to 5:00 PM.
Garden Terrace represents one of the venue's newest additions, offering a fresh outdoor dining and entertainment space. The terrace features undercover options with heating panels, making it comfortable year-round. Large-screen TVs allow guests to enjoy live sporting events while dining from the full bistro menu. The Garden Terrace hosts "Tapas on the Terrace" daily from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, offering three tapas for AUD $42. Weekend brunch service operates from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, providing a relaxed morning dining option.
Roof Top Terrace can be fully enclosed and features heating systems, making it suitable for year-round functions. This premium space is particularly popular for private events, offering unique elevated views and a distinctive atmosphere.
1848 Bluestone Lounge (Club Lounge) provides a comfortable meeting place with its welcoming open fireplace, winged-back chairs, and sofas. This centrally located lounge creates the perfect setting for pre-dinner drinks, coffee meetings, or casual gatherings with friends.
Old England Cellars operates as the hotel's bottle shop, offering an extensive range of premium Australian wines, local and imported beers, spirits, and liqueurs. The facility provides drive-through service, free delivery to the local area, and free party glass hire (conditions apply). Opening hours are Sunday 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Thursday 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and Friday through Saturday 9:00 AM to midnight. Orders can be placed online through the hotel's website or by calling (03) 9458 3909.
The following table summarises the venue's key facilities:
|
Facility |
Key Features |
Operating Hours |
|
Gaming Lounge |
105 pokies machines, comfortable seating |
10:00 AM - 4:00 AM daily |
|
Bistro |
Award-winning cuisine, daily specials |
Lunch & dinner daily |
|
Dining Room |
Formal table service, special occasions |
Dinner service, bookings required |
|
e.Bar/Front Bar |
Casual dining, sports TV, pool tables |
12:00 PM - late (Mon-Sat) |
|
Garden Terrace |
Outdoor dining, heated, sports viewing |
Daily lunch & dinner |
|
Bottle Shop |
Drive-through, delivery service |
9:00 AM - midnight (varies by day) |
The Old England Hotel maintains an active events calendar that complements its gaming and dining operations. Regular weekly promotions attract different customer segments throughout the week.
Monday: Free Pool & Extended Happy Hour - The venue offers complimentary pool table access combined with extended Happy Hour pricing, creating an attractive mid-week entertainment option.
Tuesday: Poker Tournament - World Pro Poker conducts weekly tournaments starting at 7:30 PM with a $35 buy-in. Registration occurs in the e. Bar between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM, with a meal or drink purchase required.
Wednesday: Multiple Promotions - This is perhaps the venue's busiest promotional day, featuring "Pot, Parma & Trivia" (full-sized chicken parmesan with chips, salad, and a pot of house beer for AUD $26), free trivia competition, Oyster Night in the bistro (half dozen natural oysters for AUD $18, or half dozen Kilpatrick for AUD $20), and BYO Wine Wednesday in the Dining Room (AUD $25 corkage per bottle).
Thursday: Steak Night - The bistro offers special steak pricing: 250g Porterhouse for AUD $30 or 350g Black Angus Rump Thick Cut for AUD $39, served with chips, salad, and choice of sauce.
Friday-Sunday: Weekend Brunch & Special Dining - Weekend brunch on the Garden Terrace operates from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM Saturday and Sunday with an à la carte menu. The Roof Top Terrace opens for dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5:00 PM, and for Sunday lunch from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Seasonal events include Christmas lunch bookings (which reportedly fill up annually), wine dinners featuring Victorian wineries, themed cuisine promotions (Tastes of Sicily, seafood promotions, Middle Eastern cuisine), and special holiday celebrations.
While The Old England Hotel operates primarily as a public hotel rather than a members-only club, regular patrons benefit from various informal loyalty advantages. The hotel's staff reportedly recognises frequent visitors and gaming patrons, providing personalised service that enhances the experience. Unlike RSL clubs in the area that require membership, The Old England Hotel maintains an open-door policy accessible to all visitors aged 18 and over (with ID verification for gaming areas and alcohol service).
Address: The Old England Hotel, 459 Lower Heidelberg Road, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
Phone: (+61) 03 9459 1166
Email: info@oldenglandhotel.com.au
Website: oldenglandhotel.com.au
General Operating Hours:
Gaming Lounge: 10:00 AM to 4:00 AM daily
Bistro: Daily for lunch and dinner service
e.Bar: 12:00 PM until late (Monday-Saturday), 12:00 PM-5:00 PM (Sunday)
Bottle Shop: Variable hours (9:00 AM-10:00 PM or midnight depending on day)
Parking: On-site parking available, plus surrounding street parking
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible facilities, accessible parking spaces
The Old England Hotel's Heidelberg location places it in a vibrant suburban area with numerous attractions and amenities nearby. Heidelberg serves as a significant commercial and residential hub in Melbourne's northeast.
Nearby Attractions:
Austin Hospital and Mercy Hospital for Women (medical precinct)
Heidelberg Golf Club
Warringal Parklands and Darebin Creek Trail
Heidelberg Arts Precinct
Local shopping districts along Burgundy Street
Yarra River recreational areas
Olympic Village development area
Dining and Entertainment Options: The surrounding area features diverse restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues along Burgundy Street and Lower Heidelberg Road, creating a substantial local hospitality precinct.
Services: Banking facilities, supermarkets (Coles, Woolworths), pharmacies, and other retail services are readily accessible within walking distance or a short drive from the hotel.
Established in 1848, The Old England Hotel represents one of Heidelberg's oldest and most significant buildings. The hotel's warmth and historical significance have been ingrained in the traditions and social landscape of Heidelberg since its foundation. For over 175 years, the Old England Hotel has attracted Melbournians as a fashionable place to dine, drink, and socialise.
The venue's architectural heritage combines bluestone construction typical of mid-19th-century Victorian buildings with modern amenities and contemporary interior design. This successful integration of historic character with modern functionality has earned the hotel recognition, including winning "Best Redeveloped Hotel" in 2000 from the Australian Hotels Association Victoria.
The hotel's longevity and continued success demonstrate its ability to adapt to changing community needs while maintaining its core identity as a premier hospitality venue. From its origins as a coaching inn serving travellers along Heidelberg Road to its current status as a multi-award-winning entertainment destination, The Old England Hotel has consistently evolved while preserving its historical essence.
The Old England Hotel maintains a strong commitment to responsible gambling practices in accordance with Victorian gaming regulations. The venue prominently displays responsible gambling messages and resources throughout the gaming lounge. Staff members receive regular training to identify problem gambling behaviours and provide appropriate assistance or referrals.
The hotel implements several responsible gambling measures, including voluntary self-exclusion programs, pre-commitment features on gaming machines, activity statements available to players, and reality check reminders. Information about Gambler's Help services is clearly displayed, with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation helpline (1800 858 858) prominently featured throughout the venue.
The venue's approach to responsible gambling extends beyond regulatory compliance to genuine concern for patron welfare. Management emphasises that gaming should remain an entertainment activity rather than a means of income generation, and staff are empowered to intervene when concerns arise about a patron's gambling behaviour.
The Old England Hotel operates 105 electronic gaming machines covering a range of denominations and game styles. Players can find classic three-reel pokies alongside modern video pokies featuring bonus rounds, free spins, and progressive jackpots. Popular game themes include traditional fruit machines, Asian-themed games, Australian wildlife pokies, and licensed entertainment-based machines. The venue regularly updates its machine selection to include the latest releases from major gaming manufacturers. Denomination options range from low-stakes machines (1 cent, 2 cents) suitable for casual players to higher denomination machines (50 cents, $1, $2) for those seeking larger betting options.
The gaming lounge at The Old England Hotel operates extended hours from 10:00 AM to 4:00 AM daily, seven days a week. This extensive operating schedule provides considerable flexibility for gaming enthusiasts to visit at their convenience. The venue may occasionally close the gaming lounge for private functions or special events, so calling ahead on (03) 9459 1166 is recommended if planning to visit during unusual hours. Other areas of the hotel, including the bistro and bars, maintain different operating hours, with the bistro serving lunch and dinner daily and the e. Bar operating from noon until late.
Absolutely yes. The Old England Hotel operates as a full-service hospitality venue where gaming represents just one aspect of the overall experience. The award-winning bistro, formal Dining Room, etc.Bar and Garden Terrace all welcome diners regardless of whether they use the gaming facilities. The gaming lounge is physically separated from the main dining areas, allowing families and non-gaming patrons to enjoy the venue's restaurants, bars, and entertainment offerings without exposure to gaming activities. Many patrons visit solely for the food, live sports viewing, trivia nights, poker tournaments, or social gatherings without ever entering the gaming lounge.
The Old England Hotel maintains a smart casual dress code throughout the venue. While formal attire is not required, the management requests that patrons dress neatly and appropriately. The Dining Room typically attracts guests in business casual or smart casual attire, given its more formal atmosphere, while the bistro and eBar accommodate more relaxed dress standards. The venue reserves the right to refuse entry to patrons wearing inappropriate clothing, including excessively revealing attire, offensive slogans, or clothing that may compromise safety or hygiene standards. For special events and functions, specific dress requirements may apply and will be communicated at the time of booking.
The Old England Hotel offers an extensive array of weekly dining specials designed to provide value and attract different customer segments throughout the week. Wednesday features the popular "Pot, Parma & Trivia" promotion (full parmesan with chips, salad, and beer for AUD $26) alongside Oyster Night (AUD $18-$20 for a half dozen) and BYO Wine Wednesday in the Dining Room (AUD $25 corkage). Thursday presents Steak Night with premium cuts at promotional pricing (AUD $30-$39). The Garden Terrace hosts daily Tapas from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (three for AUD $42). Weekend brunch operates Saturday and Sunday mornings from 10:30 AM. A special lunch menu is available Monday through Friday at competitive pricing. The venue also conducts seasonal promotions, including themed cuisine events, wine dinners, and holiday celebrations.
Table bookings can be made through multiple convenient methods. The most direct approach is calling the hotel on (03) 9459 1166 during business hours to speak with the reservations staff who can check availability and confirm your booking. Online booking systems are available through the hotel's website at oldenglandhotel.com.au for certain dining areas. The Dining Room requires bookings due to its table service format and limited seating, particularly for weekend evenings and special occasions. The bistro accepts walk-in diners, but bookings are recommended for larger groups or peak dining times (Friday-Saturday evenings). The Garden Terrace and e.Bars generally operate on a walk-in basis, but can accommodate group bookings with advance notice. For function bookings, contact the hotel directly to discuss your requirements and availability.
Based on available information, The Old England Hotel primarily operates as a hospitality and gaming venue rather than an accommodation hotel. The establishment focuses on its dining, bar, gaming, and function facilities rather than overnight accommodation. Visitors seeking accommodation in the Heidelberg area should consider nearby hotels and motels, including options along Bell Street, Burgundy Street, and the surrounding areas. The hotel staff can provide recommendations for nearby accommodation options if requested. The name "hotel" in the Australian context traditionally refers to licensed premises serving alcohol and does not necessarily indicate accommodation availability, unlike international usage, where "hotel" typically implies overnight rooms.
The Old England Hotel accepts multiple payment methods throughout the venue. Gaming machines accept Australian currency notes, with cash-out vouchers available. The venue operates note acceptors on machines for denominations of AUD $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. EFTPOS facilities are available throughout the venue for dining and beverage purchases, accepting major debit and credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and EFTPOS cards linked to Australian banking networks. The bottle shop accepts cash, EFTPOS, and major credit cards. American Express acceptance may vary by area within the venue. For larger function deposits and payments, bank transfer arrangements can be made. The venue includes ATM facilities on-site for patron convenience.