Events at Chelsea Heights Hotel, Aspendale Gardens

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Chelsea heights hotel

18 May 2019 Saturday / 06:00 PM

Chelsea Heights Hotel, Aspendale Gardens

About Chelsea Heights Hotel

Chelsea Heights Hotel is a large suburban pub-and-restaurant on the corner of Springvale Road and Wells Road in Aspendale Gardens (near the Chelsea Heights border) in Melbourne’s southeast (liveatyourlocal.com.au). In business for over a decade, it’s often called a local icon “embedding itself in the community” (liveatyourlocal.com.au). The building is easily recognised by its distinctive 360° domed roof and indoor palms – reviewers describe the main dining hall as a “grandiose dome… gorgeous space” with a central bar, family bistro, sports bar and mezzanine level all under one roof (www.tripadvisor.co.uk) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). Inside this dome you’ll find a lush indoor garden of palm trees around the seating areas. A live band stage in the large ballroom (Housing up to 500 seated or 600 standing guests (www.tagvenue.com)) serves as the venue’s entertainment hub. The hotel markets itself as “one of the peninsula’s iconic establishments” (liveatyourlocal.com.au) and even calls itself “Your gateway to the Mornington Peninsula” (www.chelseaheightshotel.com.au). In practice it serves local residents and travellers alike – it’s just 8 minutes’ drive from Edithvale Beach, for example (liveatyourlocal.com.au). Owned by the ALH Group, the venue functions as a pub, family restaurant and music venue rolled into one. It has a full-service licensed bistro (with “hearty pub grub” using fresh ingredients (wanderlog.com) (www.chelseaheightshotel.com.au)) alongside a beer tent and sports viewing area. A dedicated kids’ play area (often described as extensive and “well-loved” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk) (wanderlog.com)) makes the pub genuinely family-friendly. Live local and international bands play here weekly, ranging from rock and pop acts to DJs and tribute shows, while sporting events (especially AFL, NRL or UFC fights on big screens) are a regular draw. In short, Chelsea Heights Hotel is notable for its unique dome architecture, broad appeal (families, sports fans and music lovers), and role as a community hub (www.tripadvisor.co.uk) (liveatyourlocal.com.au).

Events and Programming

Chelsea Heights Hotel operates as a full live-entertainment venue as well as a pub. Most weekends feature live music or parties in the big “Bandroom.” The hotel itself bills the space as a “Live Entertainment precinct” hosting big touring acts (liveatyourlocal.com.au). Past performers have included well-known Australian artists like James Reyne and Daryl Braithwaite, international punk and rock bands like Pennywise and Parkway Drive, and 1980s/’90s tribute nights (liveatyourlocal.com.au) (tixel.com). It also hosts themed nights – for example “Battle of the Decades” retro events – and even regular kids’ entertainment. In fact, every Friday and Saturday night the pub stages shows designed for children (for instance, “Lil Critters” character performances on Saturdays) so “little ones have fun while their parents enjoy some quality time” (wanderlog.com). In addition to music and kids’ events, big sporting events are shown in the sports bar. Chelsea Heights is an official UFC venue in Melbourne’s southeast – meaning major fight nights and pay-per-view bouts are screened live, free for patrons (liveatyourlocal.com.au). It also shows AFL, NRL, soccer and other games on multiple big screens (with an on-site TAB betting window for racing and footy). Weekdays are typically quieter but still see events like schoolies parties, trivia or DJ sessions. Corporate functions, community fundraisers and private events (weddings, birthdays, wedding receptions, etc.) often book out the function rooms or the Bandroom on off-nights – the venue advertises that the Bandroom “has hosted weddings, large-scale seated and cocktail events, presentations… and performances” (www.tagvenue.com). Regular specials (such as lunch deals, live music happy hours or school-leavers parties in summer) are common. Ticket prices vary by event. Smaller pub gigs and local band nights may have no cover or a low cover charge (often in the $10–$20 range), while headline concerts cost more. As a rough example, an upcoming Everclear show was listed at about $55 (tixel.com), and Shannon Noll’s advertised date shows many fans on the waiting list (indicating strong demand). In general, allow around $20–$30 for mid-level touring bands and up to $60–$80 for major acts. Family events and kids’ shows might be cheaper or free for young children. (The venue usually notes “All Ages” if children are welcome on tickets.) Times: doors for concerts typically open around 7pm (with shows starting ~8pm or later). Daytime events like band brunches or family shows may start in the afternoon. Because shows can sell out, it’s wise to arrive early on popular gig nights or book in advance. After COVID-19 restrictions ended, the hotel resumed live gigs and now hosts events almost every weekend through the year.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for concerts and shows at Chelsea Heights Hotel can usually be bought online or over the phone through the venue’s box office. The hotel’s own website and social media (and major ticketing platforms) will list events, but to plan your visit keep an eye on announcements. Popular shows should be booked in advance – high-demand acts like Shannon Noll or tribute nights will sell out quickly. Advance tickets often go on sale many weeks or months ahead of a show. For less-promoted nights, limited tickets may be available at the door (phone the venue or check their social media on the day of the gig if you’re unsure). In practice, you can buy in person at the pub during opening hours (ask at the reception or sports bar) or by calling their phone number (03 9773 4453 as listed) to reserve. Many Melbourne pub gigs are also listed on ticket exchange sites (such as Tixel or Ticket Fairy) so you can purchase online. Avoid waiting until show day, especially on Friday/Saturday nights. There’s no separate “members club” or necessity to be a member – tickets aren’t tied to bottle-shop membership. Box office hours tend to mirror pub hours (roughly 12pm–10pm), but specific event times depend on schedule. Keep in mind some ticket sellers charge booking fees, whereas buying directly or at the door avoids extra fees (cash and EFTPOS are both accepted). The key tip is: follow the hotel’s official event postings and book early for popular performers.

Seating and Layout

Chelsea Heights Hotel is mostly a general-admission venue with flexible seating. The main live music room (often called “The Bandroom”) is an open-plan hall. By default it has chairs and small tables around the outer edges and a large dance/standing area in front of the stage. For concerts, chairs are often pushed to the side to create a dance floor. According to the venue specs, the Bandroom can accommodate up to 500 people seated or 600 standing (www.tagvenue.com). There is also a raised mezzanine area (“The Mezzanine”) semicirculating above part of the room, accessed by a short staircase (www.tagvenue.com). The Mezzanine is a semi-private section with its own small bar, fitting roughly 50 people seated (www.tagvenue.com). It looks down over the main floor, so it’s a great spot for a bird’s-eye view of a quiet show. In layout, think of three zones: 1) the front dance area (often packed at a busy gig), 2) midroom tables and standing area, and 3) seats by the bar or mezzanine. Views and sound: The stage is set at one end of the dome hall. The front few rows (floor level) provide the clearest view and sound at concerts, but can be crowded or rowdy. If you prefer a bit of distance, sit at a table to the side or at the back of the hall. The slight acoustics of the dome means very loud music can reverberate, so earplugs are a smart idea for front-row fans at intense rock shows. The on-site PA system and lights (officially noted as in place (www.tagvenue.com)) generally handle bands well, and large wall-mounted speakers cover the Hall evenly. Some reviewers note that no corner of the dining hall is out of view – the dome makes the hall open and airy (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). General admission rules apply: seating isn’t numbered, so arrive early if you want front seats. For more formal functions (like wedding dinners), the space can be set up with banquet tables or rows of chairs. In short, there are no fixed “reserved seats” for typical pub gigs, but there are plenty of tables along walls and an upstairs mezz to rest on. The best spot depends on your style – front and center for dancing and crowd vibe, or mezzanine/back for a quieter drink with a stage view.

Getting There and Parking

Chelsea Heights Hotel’s exact address is **Corner of Springvale Road & Wells Road, Aspendale Gardens VIC 3195** (liveatyourlocal.com.au). It sits at a busy crossroads in Victoria’s southeast. By car, the venue is easy to find (there’s signage off Springvale and Wells). **Parking:** Yes – there is a large onsite car park free for patrons (www.tagvenue.com). According to venue info, “free parking is available on-site” (www.tagvenue.com). The lot fills up on busy event nights, though weekends are busiest. If the front lot is full, additional spaces (often overflow) may be alongside the building. Parking is unrestricted and no paid parking applies. (Tip: Arrive a bit early on a big event night to snag a space.) **Driving directions:** From the west, take Springvale Road past Edithvale and Cheltenham. From the east, Springvale Road leads up from Frankston Highway and passes Chelsea. Wells Road is a short cross street; the hotel is on the south-western corner. GPS mapping to the corner of Springvale & Wells covers it. **Public transit:** Multiple bus routes stop right near the hotel. Bus 708 (Springvale Station–Jefferson St Dandenong via Wells Rd), 902 (the Blue Orbital bus looping around the outer suburbs including Edithvale and Dandenong), and 858 (Aspendale Gardens–Edithvale Station) all service Springvale/Wells (moovitapp.com). These buses run frequently during the day. At night, the 902 (operating on the orbital route even late) is a good option, but service frequency drops. The nearest train stations (Frankston line) are **Parkdale** or **Mentone**, each about 2–3 km away. From either station, you can catch a connecting bus (e.g. 708 or 858) or walk (~30–40 min). (Note: some Frankston line services end at the nearby Aspendale station or are replaced by buses if maintenance is happening, so check PTV updates.) If using rideshare or taxi, the main entrance on Springvale Rd is the usual pick-up/drop-off point. There isn’t an official taxi rank at the pub itself, but rideshare cars can pull up on Wells Rd or turn into the parking lot. Walking directions: The hotel is about 2.5km east of Parkdale Station (a safe but lengthy walk along busy roads). In summary: car with free parking is easiest, or take bus 708/902/858 (no train directly to the door).

Inside the Venue

Every visit to Chelsea Heights Hotel starts with an entrance into the airy dome or sports bar. At typical public entrances you’ll find a host stand where staff check IDs on ticketed events or large gatherings. Standard security measures (pat-downs or bag checks) apply on busy concert nights for safety, so allow a few extra minutes for entry. There’s usually coat racks near the doors – no formal cloakroom, but staff will help with belongings if needed. Once inside, the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. The interior is a modern pub style with plenty of wooden tables, leather banquettes, high-top stools, and long communal benches under the leafy decor. The large central bar is circular and easily accessed from all sides, stocked with over a dozen beers on tap. There’s also a full soft-drink/juice selection and wines by the glass. Bar staff are known to be quick with orders even when busy – local reviewers praise the “friendly service” and cold beer selection (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). All pub classics (steaks, schnitzels, burgers, pizzas, fish&chips) are on the menu, plus daily specials and a kids menu. According to visitors, the food is plentiful if not gourmet – “basic pub] food, good for families” one review notes ([www.tripadvisor.co.uk). After ordering at the bar or kitchen, find seats at any open table. Highchair space is usually available for children. Free Wi-Fi is offered (ask at the bar for login) (www.tagvenue.com). Big-screen TVs in the sports bar and around the venue broadcast sports and news, and speakers play background music during dinners or between acts. Restrooms are clean and plentiful (including disabled-access facilities). There is a safe, toilet-trained kids’ play area with toys and games in one corner – staff encourage well-behaved parents to let kids use it so everyone can enjoy their meal (www.tripadvisor.co.uk) (wanderlog.com). The venue also runs a bottle-shop (off-licence) as an adjacent shopfront. You can buy takeaway beer, wine or spirits at pub-tax prices. This is standard for licensed “hotels” in Australia. Coat-check/cloak: not formalised (no secure lockers), so valuables should be kept with you. Large cameras or recording gear is discouraged at concerts (stick to phone pics unless you have press permission). Inside, smoking is prohibited – there are ash bins outside. If it’s an all-night event, note last drinks around 1am (venue licence). Overall, inside the venue expect a vibrant pub atmosphere. On gig nights the room fills with music and dancing; on Fridays it’s often packed with families enjoying dinner; on fight nights, the crowd gathers at the bar with pints to watch the screens (liveatyourlocal.com.au). Staff are generally high-energy and helpful, reflecting the venue’s family sport/pub vibe.

Nearby Amenities

The area around Chelsea Heights Hotel has several casual eateries and services. Within 500 m walk (roughly 5–10 minutes) you’ll find a cluster of takeaways and cafes on Wells Road just behind the hotel. These include a Chinese/Australian “Noodle Bar” (raw: Vietnamese cuisine) and the local Aspendale Gardens Fish & Chips shop (www.kravein.com.au). A well-known spot nearby is Charles Bakehouse – a bakery/cafe about 0.5 km from the pub (www.kravein.com.au) – great for coffee, pastries or light meals if you want something different from heavy pub fare. Just past that, the Koochino Cafe (Middle Eastern pizza and wraps) and a pizza/pasta joint (Valentino’s) offer quick bites (www.kravein.com.au). If you’re willing to drive a little, there’s an Oporto (fast-food chicken) and a fuel station with a convenience store a short distance south. For sit-down dining, the popular Michelangelo’s Italian Restaurant is just a block north on Springvale Rd (open nightly for pizza/pasta), and a Thai restaurant is on Wells Rd as well. The Gardenworld nursery & landscaping store (about 800 m east) is home to a licensed cafe/restaurant – it’s a hidden gem for coffee or a nice lunch in alfresco gardens. If you need hotels or overnight stays: the immediate area has no big hotels. Most visitors who stay overnight book accommodation a few blocks north in Chelsea Heights (at small motels) or across the Nepean Highway (for example, seaside guesthouses near Edithvale Beach). Public transport is decent until late night: the 902 orbital bus runs all evening (stopping a couple of streets from the pub) but late-night trains are limited, so after-midnight taxi/rideshare is the usual way home. Melbourne Airport is about 30 km northwest via EastLink freeway (allow 40–50 minutes driving).

What Makes This Venue Special

A combination of quirks sets Chelsea Heights Hotel apart. Architecturally, it’s rare in that suburb: reviewers say it’s “the easiest building to identify in the neighbourhood” thanks to its huge domed roof and lush indoor palms (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). That dome gives the place a Mediterranean-surreal feel, very different from your usual pub. Culturally, it acts as a community hub – one reporter calls it a “giant suburban pub with a kids club” and sports bar under one roof (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). It’s not just another local hotel; it regularly brings touring bands and big events to a corner of Melbourne where there are fewer live-music venues. International acts like Parkway Drive (metalcore) and Pennywise (punk) have graced this suburban pub’s stage (liveatyourlocal.com.au) – something many would not expect outside the city center. Even classic Aussie rockers like James Reyne and Daryl Braithwaite have played here, showing its broad appeal (liveatyourlocal.com.au). Another unique feature is the combination of offerings: not many pubs are both family destinations *and* top fight-sports hotspots. Chelsea Heights blends these worlds. You’ll see grandparents feeding kids in the indoor play corner right beside UFC fight fans with pints and pizza. It’s one of only a few local venues that airs UFC events free on big screens (liveatyourlocal.com.au). The “official home of UFC” label is a neat selling point unusual for any suburban pub. Finally, the sense of community is strong. For locals (Chelsea, Aspendale and surrounding suburbs), the hotel is a landmark for celebrations and meet-ups. Dinners, birthday parties and even engagement parties happen in its function spaces (www.tagvenue.com). Many families have grown up with it: toddlers today may recall learning to walk under those palm trees or watching their first live band. Staff often recognise regulars, and the pub sponsors local footy/sports clubs. In short, it’s beloved by many for being reliably fun and friendly. As one guide put it, Chelsea Heights Hotel delivers “good family venue” vibes (www.tripadvisor.co.uk) – an achievement for a place of its size.

Visitor Tips and Information

**Accessibility:** The main entrance and ground-level areas are wheelchair-friendly (the website even lists it as accessible) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). There is step-free access to the dining hall and beer garden. Restrooms include disabled stalls. The mezzanine is up stairs only. Service staff are typically attentive to accessibility needs. **What to bring:** Photo ID if you plan to drink alcohol (some nights have strict 18+ policies). If attending a loud rock or nightclub-style event, earplugs can help. The venue provides tables and chairs, so you don’t need to bring seating. Weather is irrelevant since it’s fully indoors, but note smokers must step outside. You can bring cash or card – both are accepted at bars/bistro (though sometimes food specials are cash-only, so it’s handy to carry some cash for that). **Timing:** Arrive 15–30 minutes before seating or doors, especially if you want a front spot or seat. Dinner can be busy on Friday/Saturday (peak times 7–8pm), so arriving a bit early avoids waits. If you’re there for dinner and a show, it’s smart to book a table or arrive early; no reservations are taken for the large pub area (walk-ins only, first-come first-served). **Dress:** No dress code – come casual. Many people wear jeans and jerseys or T-shirts. On fight nights lots of blokes wear footy/sports jerseys. No one will mind shorts and a tee on a hot day. **Children:** Kids are welcome at family-friendly events and dining times. The hotel is very kid-inclusive; families often bring strollers or booster seats. That said, some late-night shows or big alcohol-heavy weekends can get rowdy, so double-check event listings for “all ages” before bringing under-18s. **Safety and Conduct:** The atmosphere is laid-back, but keep in mind it’s a busy venue. Stay with your group on concert nights (crowds can swirl), watch out when exiting (cars in parking), and have a plan for getting home if you drink. Drunks are usually polite, but as in any city venue, keep an eye on belongings. The pub’s security team maintains order if any issues arise. **Food/Drink:** All food must be purchased on-site (no outside eats allowed). The menu covers everything from burgers and steaks to pizzas and Thai dishes. The sports bar also does snacks (wings, chips, nachos, etc.). There is a bottle-shop out the front where you can buy beers or wine to sip on-site or take away for home. During events like concerts, sometimes specials run at the bar (e.g. $5 beers during intermission) – keep an eye on chalkboard deals. **Common mistakes:** Don’t assume events are cash-only – ask each night (the kitchen often takes cards too). Don’t park on the wrong street during big events (some streets have residential permit zones). Don’t forget IDs if you’re even borderline 18. Finally, avoid the late-night crowds if not interested in club-type scene (things wind down after 1am on weeknights). **Insider tip:** When a band or artist you like is coming, it pays to join the hotel’s VIP or mailing list (they have email or SNS sign-ups) for pre-sale info. Also, in summer the outdoor biergarden at the back can be lovely for pre-show drinks. And if you’re really into it, sign up for one of their drink or meals loyalty cards – locals use these for occasional discounts. Overall, Chelsea Heights Hotel aims to be a “something for everyone” place. With a mix of sports, family dining, and music, it may not feel like a slick city nightclub – but its vibrant community atmosphere and unique dome setting make it memorable. Follow these tips, and you should have all you need for a great night out at this local landmark.

What is the address of Chelsea Heights Hotel?

Chelsea Heights Hotel is located at the corner of Springvale Road and Wells Road in Aspendale Gardens (postal code 3195) (liveatyourlocal.com.au). This is just inside the suburb of Aspendale Gardens, near Chelsea Heights, in Melbourne’s southeast. For navigation, use Springvale Rd & Wells Rd, Aspendale Gardens VIC 3195.

Does Chelsea Heights Hotel have parking, and is it free?

Yes – there is a large onsite car park that customers can use for free (www.tagvenue.com). The hotel explicitly notes that “free parking is available on-site.” The lot can get busy on popular nights, so plan to come a bit early if you want a close spot. There are no parking fees or permits required to park at the venue.

What public transport goes near Chelsea Heights Hotel?

Several bus routes stop right near the hotel. In particular, Melbourne buses 708, 902 and 858 all run along Springvale and Wells Roads near the venue (moovitapp.com). You can take these buses directly from nearby train stations (Parkdale or Mentone on the Frankston line). For example, the 902 (blue orbital) runs late into the evening. There is no train station at the pub, but Parkdale or Mentone stations are a 2–3 km walk (or a short connecting bus ride) away. After hours, rideshare or taxi from Parkdale/Mordialloc stations is common.

Is Chelsea Heights Hotel wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Chelsea Heights Hotel is advertised as wheelchair-accessible. The main entrance and bar/bistro areas are step-free, and there are accessible restrooms available. (Check-in with staff for any special assistance.) Note that the upstairs mezzanine seating area is only reachable by stairs, but the ground-level spaces are fully navigable by wheelchair (www.tripadvisor.co.uk).

How do I buy tickets for shows at Chelsea Heights Hotel?

Tickets can be purchased through a few methods. Check the hotel’s official announcements (website or social media) for event listings – they usually link to ticket vendors. You can often buy tickets in person at the hotel’s box office or bar during regular hours by phone (03 9773 4453). Many gigs are also listed with ticket resellers (e.g. Ticket Fairy or Tixel) where you can buy online. It’s recommended to book early for popular shows; if an event isn’t sold out, some tickets may be available at the door on the night, but this is not guaranteed.

How much do tickets cost at Chelsea Heights Hotel?

Ticket prices vary widely with the event. Small local band nights may be very cheap or even free, while major touring acts are higher. As an example, an upcoming Everclear show was listed at about $55 (tixel.com). In general, plan on modest covers ($10–20) for local cover bands and midsize gigs, but for headline acts or national tours expect $50 or more. Family/festive events might have different pricing or kids’ discounts. Always check the specific event listing for the exact price.

Are children allowed to attend Chelsea Heights Hotel events?

Yes – Chelsea Heights Hotel caters to all ages for many events. The venue is well-known for being family-friendly, with an indoor kids’ play area and routine “kids night” entertainment on Fridays/Saturdays (wanderlog.com) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). Children are welcome at shows advertised as "All Ages". However, some late-night rock concerts or big fight nights may be restricted to 18+; always check the event details. In summary, if the event is billed as family-friendly, you can bring youngsters – otherwise the bar enforces the standard 18+ rule for alcohol licensing.

Is there a dress code at Chelsea Heights Hotel?

No formal dress code – come comfortably. Most patrons wear casual attire (jeans, tees, sport jerseys, etc.). Even on concert nights, a smart-casual approach is fine. It’s still a pub atmosphere, so standard clothing (no swimwear, offensive slogans, etc.) applies. Reception or security might refuse entry for clearly inappropriate clothing (like overly revealing costumes or hoodie over the face). But generally, if you’d wear it to a friendly local pub, it’s fine here.

Can I bring my own food or drinks to Chelsea Heights Hotel?

No – outside food and beverages (especially alcohol) are not allowed. All food and drink must be purchased from the hotel’s kitchen and bar. The hotel does, however, have its own bottle shop/bar where you can buy take-away beer or wine to drink on-site or take home. In special cases (like bringing a baby bottle or medical necessity), explain to staff at the door. In general, plan to use the pub’s menu for meals and the bar for drinks.

What food and drink are available at Chelsea Heights Hotel?

The hotel has a full-family bistro and bar. They serve a wide pub menu: classics like steak, schnitzel, burgers, pasta, pizzas, fish & chips, and grills. One reviewer calls it “hearty pub grub” (wanderlog.com) with reasonably priced meals. There’s also a children’s menu. The central bar offers a range of beers on tap (including local ales), wines, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks. During games or fights, you can buy beer buckets or share plates. Note: On big event nights, food service may be busier, so arriving early for dinner is wise.

Is Wi-Fi available at Chelsea Heights Hotel?

Yes – the venue provides free Wi-Fi for guests (www.tagvenue.com). You can usually connect in the main dining area and bar using the network name posted behind the bar. It’s handy for checking event schedules or browsing while you wait for the show.

What other restaurants or facilities are near Chelsea Heights Hotel?

Within a short walk of the hotel there are a number of dining options. For example, the Aspendale Gardens Fish & Chips shop and a casual noodle/Asian take-away (Noodle Bar) are under 500 m away (www.kravein.com.au). Charles Bakehouse (a cafe/bakery) and the Koochino Cafe (pizza/wraps) are also about 0.5 km away (www.kravein.com.au) (www.kravein.com.au). Michelangelo’s (Italian restaurant) is one block away on Springvale Rd. The nearby Gardenworld (at Wells/Wells Rd) has a licensed cafe. Most of these are budget-friendly casual places. As for accommodation, there are no hotels directly next door – aspiring visitors usually stay further afield (e.g. guesthouses in Chelsea or along the peninsula). The venue itself is not a lodging provider (no overnight rooms), despite the “Hotel” name.

What is the capacity of Chelsea Heights Hotel?

The venue’s large event space holds up to about 600 people standing (or around 500 if all are seated) (www.tagvenue.com). That makes it one of the biggest pub-concert venues in southeast Melbourne. The main hall is open-plan with moveable tables and chairs, allowing flexible seating for small or large crowds. For most gigs, it functions as general admission standing room with some chairs available at the back and edges. The mezzanine above accommodates an extra ~50 seated guests (www.tagvenue.com). In practical terms, expect room for around 400–500 on a busy night, plus a handful more if people use the upstairs and front areas.

Are cameras or videos allowed at Chelsea Heights Hotel events?

For casual visitors: smartphone photos (no flash) are usually fine for personal memories. However, professional cameras or video recording equipment are not permitted unless you have press/artist approval. Many concerts enforce a “no flash photography” rule, so please respect that. In general, avoid blocking others’ view with tripods or big lens; phones/compact cameras held up are acceptable for snapshots. (As a rule of thumb: enjoy the show, but keep any camera use discreet and etiquette-friendly.)

Why is it called Chelsea Heights Hotel if it’s in Aspendale Gardens?

This is a common question! The pub is indeed at the edge of Aspendale Gardens, very close to the neighboring suburb of Chelsea Heights. Historically the area here has been known as “Chelsea Heights” (a locality name), so the name stuck even though postal addresses now say Aspendale Gardens. In short, it spans the border of the two suburbs, and “Chelsea Heights Hotel” has been its branding since it opened. Locals often still call it “The Heights” or simply “Chelsea Heights Hotel” out of habit.

Are smoking and vaping allowed inside Chelsea Heights Hotel?

No. Smoking (or vaping) is banned indoors by Victorian law. There are designated ashtrays and bins near the entrances for those who want to smoke. You must step outside to light up. For convenience, note that the car park and the small outdoor beer garden at the back have ashtrays, but the covered dome area and bar are completely non-smoking.

What are the busiest times to visit Chelsea Heights Hotel?

Friday and Saturday nights are the busiest, especially when live music or fight broadcasts are on. Weeknight crowds tend to pick up around 6–7pm with dinner diners, then again 8–10pm for events. Sunday afternoon can also be popular (especially on nice days when families come out). If you prefer a quieter visit, try weekday afternoons or early Thursdays when it’s mostly locals watching sports. Always expect a lively atmosphere after 6pm on weekends, so table availability can be limited – coming early is recommended.