About The Croxton Bandroom
The Croxton Bandroom is the live-music venue attached to the historic Croxton Park Hotel in Thornbury, Melbourne. The pub itself dates back to 1844 , and in the mid-20th century a large ballroom (“The Croc”) was added at the rear. This rear bandroom space became famous in the 1970s and 80s as one of Melbourne’s premier pub-rock venues – bands like AC/DC, Skyhooks, Cold Chisel, Rose Tattoo, INXS, Men At Work and Midnight Oil all played “The Croc” . In 2015 the venue was completely renovated and relaunched as The Croxton Bandroom with modern sound and lighting systems. The current space features a giant 14-metre-wide stage with no obstructed sightlines . Two bars serve the audience and there’s even a beer garden out back . This gives Croxton a unique character – it’s been lovingly restored into a spacious, open-floor dance hall while still retaining its old-school pub vibe. In all, the Croxton Bandroom is a spacious (standing) venue of roughly 600–800 people capacity, famous for its “epic” stage and perfect sightlines .
The Croxton is notable not just for its size but for its place in Melbourne’s music story. It’s part of High Street’s eastside character – a live-music legend on the 86 tram strip. As one local council writeup observed, High Street (from Northcote to Preston) has “more venues … than any street in Australia, possibly more than any street worldwide” , and Croxton is a crown jewel of that scene. The venue is often called a local favorite for bands and crowds alike – American rockers Electric Mary even chose it as one of the “favourite venues” on their farewell tour . In short, The Croxton Bandroom is a blend of historic pub-rock legacy and modern gig-hall features, making it a standout music destination in Melbourne.
Events and Programming
Live music happens nearly every week at The Croxton Bandroom. The focus is on rock, punk, indie and alternative acts, both Australian and international. You’ll find high-energy local bands and touring headliners alike. The program regularly includes established Australian rock acts (for example, after reopening it hosted You Am I, The Drones and even King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard ). It also brings in international touring bands – UK indie rockers like *The Reytons* have played full Aussie tours that culminated at Croxton , and even jazz artists: in October 2023, Chicago drummer Makaya McCraven performed at Croxton as part of Melbourne’s Eighty-Six music festival . The Darebin council’s new Eighty-Six festival specifically highlights High Street venues, and Croxton was included – showing its importance to the local scene .
There is no set ‘house band’ or regular weekly tribute – the schedule is event-based. On a typical week you might see two or three shows (often on Fri/Sat, with occasional mid-week gigs). Ticket prices vary by act: small local acts might charge around $20–30, while bigger headliners or festivals can go $50 or more. The Croxton itself usually doesn’t sell tickets on site – shows are ticketed through official online outlets. Once tickets go on sale (often at least a month in advance for bigger shows), they can sell quickly. Some fans sign up for the venue’s mailing list or follow its social media to catch presales. If a show is very popular it can sell out, so the best strategy is to book early and compare prices through the official channels. Occasionally events will offer limited tickets at the door if not sold out – but news of late door sales is not guaranteed. In practice, fans usually buy tickets online and arrive at Croxton with their e-tickets. (On the night of a show, the Croxton’s doors tend to open 90–120 minutes before showtime , so you can often buy last-minute tickets in person up to about an hour before the band hits the stage.)
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Croxton Bandroom concerts are bought in advance through the venue’s official channels (concert websites and promoters). Pricing depends on the event: local supports may be as little as ~$20–30, while headline acts (especially international guests) often run $50–$70+. There is usually an adult price and sometimes concessions (student/senior) if offered by the promoter. Because the venue is popular, the safe approach is to buy tickets early once they go on sale. Many shows will have an official “ticketing partner” selling online (Oztix or similar platforms) and may also have presales via fan clubs or mailing lists. Be wary of unofficial resale sites, since only the original outlets are guaranteed by the venue.
On show night, tickets can sometimes still be purchased at the door (card and cash) if the event is not sold out – but it’s not guaranteed. It’s best to check the event posting or ask Croxton staff in advance. The Croxton Bandroom’s own box office (the front door of the venue) typically opens 1.5–2 hours before the show , so fans often line up early to get good spots. If you’re hoping for door sales, plan to arrive when the doors open; otherwise sold-out acts often have no tickets available after presale.
Seating and Layout
The Croxton Bandroom is fundamentally a general-admission standing venue. There are no fixed theatre seats in the main music hall – the crowd stands and dances on the floor in front of the stage. (There may be a few high tables or bars at the sides or back for people who want to sit or lean, but most of the area is open space.) This means the closest views and best sound are right up front – if you want an immersive experience, head toward the barriers at stage level. Even so, the stage is wide (14 metres) and raised only a little, so even side or rear areas have good sightlines. In fact, everywhere in the bandroom is usually a decent vantage thanks to the unobstructed layout . Because it’s flat, shorter guests often stand on their toes to see – you may also find some patrons climb onto the stage edge between sets (common in Aussie pubs).
In terms of comfort, the space is more “concert hall” than “theatre”. The floor is timber and can be a little slippery if people spill drinks. Many attendees recommend wearing closed-toe shoes (no sandals) especially for rock shows – it avoids stubbing toes in the crowd. There is a raised section at the very back (near the bars) which is slightly higher level than the pit, so you can stand there for a view if you prefer not to be in a mosh. Still, true seating is limited. If you want to eat or drink at a table, you can use the adjoining pub bistro or the venue’s seating area, but that will put you away from the stage. Otherwise, most fans simply stand in the bandroom. For example, one concert reviewer noted that the Croxton’s floor got packed with latecomers – it literally became “a sauna” as people squeezed in !
Getting There and Parking
Location: The Croxton Bandroom is at 607 High Street, Thornbury VIC 3071 . This is an inner-suburban location (about 8 km north of the CBD) along Melbourne’s busy High Street. The venue has signage on the front of the Croxton Hotel building, and it’s on a corner – easy to spot with the pub’s heritage facade.
Public Transport: The venue is very well-serviced by public transit. The Croxton train station (Mernda Line) is just around the corner, only a minute’s walk from the door . So taking the train from the city to Croxton Station is a convenient option – from there it’s a short walk east on High St. Tram route 86 also runs directly past the venue on High Street – the Croxton stop is right at the hotel’s front entrance . (Many passengers will say “the 86 tram to Thornbury” when referring to it.) There are also several nearby bus routes along High Street. In short, if you can catch the train or tram to Thornbury/Croxton, you only need an easy 1–2 minute stroll to get to the front door.
Driving and Parking: If you drive, note that Croxton sits on a 386 route (High St) so traffic can be busy. Free parking is available directly opposite the venue in a large Darebin Council car park – it has about 300 spaces . This lot is usually free to use and often sufficient even on event nights. (Be aware of signage or time limits – it’s managed by the city council.) If that car park fills up, on-street parking is available on surrounding side streets, though many spots are metered or timed. Arriving an hour before showtime is wise if you need city parking
Rideshare and Taxis: Uber or taxis can drop you off right on High Street at the Croxton’s entrance. Buses and trams will have stops at busy junctions near the pub, so you can step off and be there in a minute or two. For night travel home, trams (86) and trains run fairly late, but do check schedules – last trains from Croxton Station on weekdays may be before midnight. If traveling late, rideshares often remain convenient in this area.
Inside the Venue
As you enter the Croxton Bandroom, expect a stylish yet casual pub vibe. There will be staff (often in t-shirts) checking tickets and IDs at the door. (Most Croxton shows are 18+, so be ready to show photo ID. ) Your ticket is usually scanned and you may get a wristband. Bags and backpacks may be inspected – as a rule, only small purses or clutches are recommended . In fact, an unofficial suggestion is to avoid large bags if possible; many fans follow a “clear bag” policy to speed entry. On busy nights this can save you time going through security.
Inside, the atmosphere is lively and loud. Expect high-decibel rock: SoundPrint measurements have found the Croxton averages around 106 decibels during concerts . In plain terms, that’s very loud – roughly the level of a jet plane taking off. It’s a good idea to bring earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. The stage lighting is modern (moving lights, strobes, LED bars) and adds to the concert feel in the darkened hall. The walls and ceiling are treated for good acoustics, so sound is powerful and clear (but very bassy near the speakers).
The Croxton maintains a true pub-style interior: exposed brick, leather bar stools and wooden floors mingle with concert gear. In the bandroom there are two bars easily accessible. One bar is at the rear (in the entrance lobby) and the other is up the ramp inside the main hall . Both serve a full range of drinks: beer on tap and in bottles (often local and imported brews), plus wine, spirits and cocktails. Many locals rave about the bar selection – you can usually find familiar Aussie craft beers and even international brews. A popular Aussie term for a cold beer here is an “ice-cold stubby” (beer bottle) or a “glass of ale”. After a couple hours of rocking out, grabbing a refreshing pint is practically a tradition.
There is also an on-site bistro (pub restaurant) that serves food if you get hungry. The bistro has a menu of steaks, burgers, pasta and pub classics . On concert nights, dinner service may end a bit early so you might want to eat before the gig (often the kitchen closes around 8–9pm). Still, pre-show dinner in the bistro is convenient: you can order from the table and then head in when the band starts. One reviewer noted the bistro is “well known for delicious food and spacious seating” , so it’s the perfect pre-gig meal spot.
Inside the bandroom hall there’s no official cloakroom or coat check, so it’s best to keep personal items minimal. Restrooms (toilets) are available – usually a row of men’s and women’s toilets down a corridor. If you need accessible facilities, Croxton was renovated with modern compliance, so wheelchair access is provided at the main entrance and in at least one restroom. (It’s always wise to confirm with the venue if you need special assistance, but generally it is a flat entry with no steps up to the hall.)
Merchandise tables (selling band T-shirts, CDs etc.) are typically set up near the front entrance or stage during gigs. If you want a memento, look for these after the show. Finally, note that the Croxton has free Wi-Fi only in the dining/bistro area; in the bandroom itself there is no public Wi-Fi (phone reception is usually okay, though crowded trams and train signals can cause delays).
Nearby Amenities
The Croxton sits in Thornbury’s vibrant High Street strip, so there are plenty of amenities close by. For food and drinks before or after a show, you can choose from local cafes and restaurants. Within a block or two on High Street you’ll find popular cafés like The Old Milk Bar (casual American diner style) and Cafe Umberto (Italian home cooking) – both known for breakfast/lunch menus. The Little Tienda serves Mexican/Californian street food, and Cafe Prior offers Middle Eastern-influenced dishes . These all open daytime, so if you arrive early for an arvo fish & chips or burger, they’re good spots. Many concertgoers grab dinner at these or use the Croxton’s own dining before a gig.
For late-night or nearby pubs, The Croxton’s two upstairs bars keep running after the music. If you wander a bit further down High Street (toward the station), there are other pubs as well. The Thornbury Local (formerly the Princess Theatre bar) and other nearby bars are just a 5–10 minute walk away, offering more drink options and often live music or DJs on weekends.
Shopping and essentials are close too: Sunshine Bakery (coffee and snacks) and small retailers dot the strip. If you need a liquor or wine store, the Croxton actually has its own bottle shop attached – a classic Aussie pub feature – where you can buy beer and wine to go (or bring to drink on-site, subject to licensing). So there’s no need to go far for any last-minute supplies.
In terms of accommodation, Thornbury is mostly residential (with few large hotels). If you’re visiting from out of town and want a place to stay, consider nearby areas. Northcote and Clifton Hill (one suburb over) have affordable guesthouses and small hotels, or you could stay in the city (Melbourne CBD is only ~30 minutes away by tram/train). On event nights it’s common for concertgoers to book Airbnbs or hotels in these adjacent neighborhoods.
Tips: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime. On gigs, the lines at the Croxton’s door can grow quickly, so the earlier you arrive the better spot you’ll get. Public transport will drop you right at High St, but if you drive, allow a few extra minutes to find parking. Late-night rideshares are plentiful in this area if you’re staying out late. After the show, the Croxton’s location on High St means trams (86) and trains (Mernda line) are still running for your trip home – but double-check last service times if you stay past midnight.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Croxton Bandroom is special because it’s a genuine link between Melbourne’s music heritage and today’s scene. It’s one of the few surviving pub-rock era venues that has been lovingly updated rather than replaced. Walking into the Croxton, you can still feel the ghosts of its past – the alley of posters by the stage and the hardwood dance floor recall shows of decades ago – while enjoying crystal-clear modern sound.
Architecturally, it stands out for its combination of old and new. The front of the building retains the classic 19th-century pub façade, but the back opens up into a huge rectangular hall built mid-1900s which is now the bandroom . That contrast – a cosy beer hall meets hi-tech concert stage – gives the Croxton real character. The 14m wide stage is practically famous; musicians often comment on how wide it is and how far the sound carries.
Culturally, Croxton’s legacy is huge. It was the launching pad for many Aussie legends, and today it vets new ones. Local music fans are proud of having a “quality venue in our own backyard” – it’s become a community hub for live art. Even city papers praised Croxton in 2015 for upgrading “decades since the golden era of pub rock” and bringing rock’n’roll back to Thornbury . In 2023 Darebin’s own music festival featured Croxton prominently, highlighting the venue’s ongoing importance .
On a personal level, both artists and audiences love Croxton. Bands enjoy its friendly staff and tight-knit vibe; for example the Aussie band Electric Mary called it one of their favorite venues in the world . Fans love that no matter where you stand, the view and sound are great. A concertgoer once described a show there as “intense” – the crowd danced so hard one fan said it felt like a “cracking mosh pit” with real camaraderie .
Overall, the Croxton Bandroom stands out as a place where Melbourne’s music history and present collide – an authentic, unpretentious venue where epic rock nights are still made in a classic pub setting.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Croxton Bandroom is a renovated modern venue, so it provides wheelchair access at its main entrance (ramp or step-free door) and has at least one accessible toilet. If you have any special needs it’s recommended to call ahead, but in general the venue is fairly accessible for patrons with mobility issues.
Age Restrictions: Almost all bandroom events are strictly 18+ (no minors) due to liquor licensing . Always carry a photo ID (driver’s licence or passport). If an event does allow under-18s (very rare; the official listing will state “All Ages” explicitly), it will be noted on the ticket. Otherwise assume it’s 18+ and ID-checked at the door.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Essentials like tickets (printed or on your phone), photo ID (if you plan to drink), and ear protection (the sound can be very loud ). Dress casually for a pub-rock gig – many people wear band T-shirts, jackets, jeans. Comfortable shoes are a must (it’s a big standing crowd). Bags should be small; large backpacks or heavy purses are discouraged and may be checked. Clear plastic bags (like small drawstrings) get you through security fastest. Avoid taking large camera tripods or professional video gear unless cleared by the promoter (most shows permit smartphone cameras but not large DSLRs). Also, vaping or smoking are only allowed in the outdoor beer garden – smoking is banned inside.
Entry Tips: The Croxton does not have a coat check or storage for large items, so plan to keep jackets and belongings on you. Coat hanging hooks might be available inside but they fill up quickly. If you arrive early (doors often open ~90 min before show ), the bistro and bar are usually not busy and you can get seated or get a drink before the crowd arrives. Once the show starts, by standing room fills fast. Near the stage it can get a bit warm – one reviewer noted the room was like “a sauna” from all the bodies dancing – so dress in layers you can shed and stay hydrated between songs.
Inside the Show: People queue politely during supports to get closer, and there is usually no mosh pit pushing very hard at Croxton (it stays fairly safe). Crowds here are known to be enthusiastic but friendly – as one blog put it, there was “a lively crowd and kind togetherness” during a rock gig . If you accidentally get bumped, others will often check on you. It’s common to see fans clap, sing-along, and enjoy the communal vibe. Feel free to move around or request a spot change, but always be respectful. Often there are a few standing-room-perched tables at the back and sides if you need a break.
Food & Drink: As noted, Croxton has a full kitchen (bistro) and two bars. Before the show, the restaurant menu is available and lunch/dinner service runs daily . On show nights, the kitchen may close around early evening, but you can always grab snacks or order food from the bar if available. Drink-wise, the venue serves beer, wine and cocktails. They often have local craft beers on tap – folks recommend trying an Australian craft ale or a Melbourne-brewed lager. For a true Aussie experience, try a “stubby of XXXX” (a recognizable Melbourne lager) or a seasonal Australian cider. Cash and credit cards are accepted at the bars. Note that opening a tab is common in pubs: you can give your credit card to the bartender, run a tab, and then close it at the end of the night.
Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t show up with an e-ticket that’s unconfirmed or on an unsupported platform. Double-check your ticket’s name (you may need matching ID). Also, don’t assume loose cameras or drones are allowed – anything that blocks aisles will be turned away. It’s best to leave large umbrellas or hard items at home.
Lastly, be aware that the Croxton is an old building at heart – there’s no air conditioning in the hall, only industrial fans and open doors, so it can get very hot on crowded nights. Dress comfortably and keep track of your belongings. By following these tips, you’ll have a smooth, enjoyable gig experience at this beloved Thornbury venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of The Croxton Bandroom?
The Croxton Bandroom is located at 607 High Street, Thornbury, Victoria 3071 . It’s on Melbourne’s busy High Street (between Merri Parade and the Holyrood Street intersection) and is part of the historic Croxton Park Hotel building.
How much do tickets cost for Croxton Bandroom shows?
Ticket prices at Croxton vary by show and artist. For small local gigs, tickets might start around $20–30. For well-known headliners or international bands, prices often range from ~$40 up to $70 or more. Always check the specific event listing – it will list the ticket tiers. Students or seniors may qualify for concessions if offered by the promoter.
Where can I buy tickets for Croxton Bandroom events?
The Croxton itself does not sell tickets directly. Tickets are normally sold online via the event’s official ticket outlet (the Croxton’s website might link to this) or through a third-party ticket seller. Some events may also allow tickets at the door if not sold out. To be safe, purchase from the official ticket partner listed in the event announcement or via the venue’s official channels.
Is there a box office or can I pay at the door?
The Croxton Bandroom has an on-site box office at the door that generally opens when doors to the event open (about 90–120 minutes before showtime ). If a show is not sold out, you can often buy tickets in person (card and sometimes cash). However, popular shows may sell out in advance, so it’s best not to rely on door sales unless the event page explicitly says “Doors will sell tickets.”
Does the Croxton Bandroom allow general admission (standing) or are seats provided?
Most shows at The Croxton are standing-room-only in the main bandroom. There are no fixed theatre seats – it’s a general admission layout. A few high tables or bar seats may be along the sides or back for patron use, but the vast majority of attendees will stand on the floor facing the stage. For comfort, many people arrive early to claim a spot on the floor if they want to be near the front, or stay back by the bar if they prefer a less crowded view.
What time do the doors open before a show?
The Croxton Bandroom typically opens its doors about 90–120 minutes before showtime . (This can vary by event.) For example, if a concert is scheduled to start at 8pm, the venue doors might open around 6:00pm. Arriving early is wise because fans form lines and the venue will let in ticket-holders in order. Check your ticket details or the event announcement – it usually lists the exact door time.
What public transport is nearest to The Croxton Bandroom?
The closest train station is Croxton Station (Mernda Line), just up the road from the venue – only a minute’s walk . Tram route 86 runs along High Street with a stop right outside The Croxton . These make it very easy to reach from the city. There are also local buses on High Street. Essentially, catch a train to Croxton or tram #86 and you’ll be at the door in moments.
Is there parking available for The Croxton Bandroom?
Yes. Directly across the street is a large Darebin Council car park with about 300 spaces . This is the main recommended parking lot; it’s free in the evenings and has ample room for concert crowds. If that lot is full, on-street parking on nearby side streets is possible (though many spots have time limits or meters). On event nights it’s a good idea to arrive early to grab parking. After 7pm most street meters are often free or capped, but always check local signs for any restrictions.
What are the age restrictions at The Croxton Bandroom?
Almost all events at The Croxton Bandroom are 18+ only (due to liquor licensing). Unless an event is specifically listed as “all ages”, you must be 18 or older to enter, and a government-issued photo ID will be checked upon entry . If you plan to drink alcohol, you will definitely need to show ID at the door. (An exception: some special daytime or child-friendly events might allow younger audiences, but these will clearly advertise themselves as such in advance.)
Are large bags or backpacks allowed inside?
Croxton enforces a bag policy for safety. Large bags and backpacks are not recommended. Security does search bags on entry, so if your bag is very big or opaque it may be rejected or taken apart. It’s safest to bring only a small handbag or a clear plastic bag (ID cards will need to be removed from wallets for scanning). One source suggests using a small clutch (about 4.5×6.5 inches) or a clear bag to move quickly through the line.
Is photography or recording allowed inside?
For most shows, casual smartphone photos without flash are usually fine, as the venue is relaxed about personal cameras. However, professional video cameras or recording equipment (and sometimes GoPros on tripods) are generally not allowed unless you have media accreditation. In any case, respect the venue’s rules and the artists’ instructions. If photography is prohibited, it will be clearly announced. Flash photography is almost always discouraged since it can blind performers.
Is The Croxton Bandroom wheelchair accessible?
Yes, The Croxton Bandroom was renovated to be accessibility-compliant. There is a step-free entrance (a ramp or flat path leading into the venue) and at least one accessible toilet. Inside, the bandroom floor is level (no steps to cross). If you require any special assistance, you may wish to contact the venue ahead of time, but generally people using wheelchairs or mobility devices can navigate the space.
Is smoking allowed at The Croxton Bandroom?
No - indoor smoking is prohibited by law throughout Victoria. If you need to smoke or vape, the only options are to step outside into the outdoor beer garden or front entrance area. The Croxton has a sizable beer garden out back where smoking is permitted. For safety, if you do step outside during a show, remember to guard your ticket stub so you can re-enter.
Are food and drinks available inside the venue?
Yes. The Croxton has two full-service bars inside the bandroom where you can buy beer, wine, spirits and cocktails. As a licensed venue, you can drink that alcohol on the premises. For food, the Croxton’s bistro (restaurant) is adjacent and serves meals daily . On concert nights the menu is often available up until early evening (it may close earlier than normal), but the bar may offer snacks throughout the show. In short, you won’t go hungry or thirsty – just grab a drink or meal from the bar/kitchen as needed.
What is the capacity of The Croxton Bandroom?
The exact official capacity is not published on-site, but by most accounts The Croxton Bandroom accommodates roughly 600–800 people standing. Its 14-metre stage and wide layout allow a large crowd without feeling cramped. (For safety, note that if a show is selling toward full capacity, the venue may close entry early to comply with fire regulations.)
Does The Croxton Bandroom have a Wi-Fi or phone charger station?
There is no public Wi-Fi in the bandroom hall itself. If you’re in the Croxton’s bistro or bar area, you might find a Wi-Fi hotspot or ask staff, but during shows the focus is on music (so assume you’ll rely on your own data plan). There are no known public phone charging stations, so plan accordingly if you need battery life. Charging at the bar is not possible, so some visitors carry a small power bank if needed.
What time should I arrive at The Croxton Bandroom for a concert?
Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before the scheduled start time, or even earlier for very popular acts. Doors usually open 1.5–2 hours before the first band performs . Early arrival lets you find a good spot (especially on the floor), avoid long queues, and take advantage of any pre-show bar or food service. Latecomers risk standing at the back after most good viewing spots are filled.
