About Kelly’s on King
Kelly’s on King (also called Kelly’s on King Hotel) is a lively Irish-Australian pub in Newtown’s King Street precinct. It opened on 16 September 1999 in a heritage building originally constructed in 1859 (themusicandboozeco.com.au ). The pub emphasizes a friendly, casual atmosphere—often described as “the ultimate Irish-Australian pub” with plenty of Guinness on tap and hearty pub fare (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Inside you’ll find multiple bars, pool tables, karaoke machines and arcade games, as well as a rear courtyard and raised rooftop deck for outdoor drinking (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ) (happymag.tv ). Above the main bar is Bootleggers, an intimate 125-person live music room where rock, punk and indie bands play nightly (themusicandboozeco.com.au ) (happymag.tv ). This mix of pub amenities and a dedicated gig space, along with local traditions (like weekly trivia and games), has made Kelly’s a beloved Newtown institution (www.ticketfairy.com ) (happymag.tv ).
Events and Programming
Kelly’s on King runs events almost every night of the week. The regular schedule includes free pool games on Mondays and Sundays, karaoke on Thursdays and Sundays, and **locals’ nights** on Wednesdays featuring beer raffles, badge drawings and extended happy hours (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ) (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ). Pub trivia (Amy’s Trivia) is held most Wednesdays at 7pm (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ). Live music is a centerpiece: from Wednesday through Saturday an array of local rock, indie, punk and alternative bands take the stage (mainly in the Bootleggers upstairs) (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ) (happymag.tv ). Saturdays also feature late-night “house bands” (typically starting around 11pm) (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ). Fridays often have DJs or dance nights, and special theme nights (comedy shows or battles of the bands) pop up monthly. The venue even hosts promotions like “5 Bands for $5” (five bands for a $5 cover each) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Entry fees for shows vary – casual quiz or karaoke nights are free, while concerts usually charge a modest cover (often around $10–20). Check Kelly’s website or social pages for ticket links and event times; media coverage calls Kelly’s “a mainstay of Irish-Australian culture” because it overflows with nightly live music, trivia and comedy (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Most events at Kelly’s on King don’t require advance tickets except bigger concerts. For live gigs, tickets are usually sold through the venue’s event promoters or websites and sometimes at the door if any remain. Since the Bootleggers upstairs is small (125 capacity (happymag.tv )), popular shows often sell out, so it’s wise to buy online early. The pub typically advertises show listings on its site and social media with links to purchase. Doors for music events generally open at about 7:30pm (www.ticketfairy.com ), so arrive early on busy nights. There is no formal box office beyond the bar, so online purchase is recommended — but if you decide to buy at the door, be prepared for a cover charge and possibly a line.
Seating and Layout
Kelly’s on King is a multi-level venue without assigned seating. The ground floor is an open-plan pub with a long bar counter, stools and some booths along the walls. It’s built in a lot that extends back and opens out into a courtyard and rooftop terrace (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ) (happymag.tv ). Upstairs (Bootleggers) is entirely general admission standing room with maybe a few bar-height tables near the back — attendees watch the band up close. Because seating was largely removed in past renovations, most live shows are standing events (www.tripadvisor.com.au ) (happymag.tv ). There are no VIP sections or reserved boxes; everyone mingles on the same floor. For concerts, the “best seats” are just in front of the stage or along the edges of the crowd. Note that sound can be very loud and bass-heavy in such a compact stage room, so the center of the floor often has the best balanced audio. Try to avoid standing right next to the large speakers if you are sensitive to volume. On quieter nights downstairs, the booths and bar stools offer a comfortable view of the TV screens for sports and general pub socializing.
Getting There and Parking
Kelly’s on King is located at **285 King Street, Newtown NSW 2042** (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). It’s easily reached by public transport: Newtown railway station (T2 Inner West/Leppington and T3 Bankstown lines) is only a few minutes’ walk east along King Street (moovitapp.com ). Several bus routes also serve King St directly outside the pub (for example, routes **352, 370, 422, 423, 426** all pass nearby) (moovitapp.com ). For drivers, street parking on King St is very limited (most spots are short-term or metered). A convenient pay lot is at **2 Lennox Street** (just 1 block west) – a council garage with 55 spaces (2-hour free limit, then about $2.80/hr) (en.parkopedia.com.au ). A larger SecureParking structure (Newtown Central, 328–330 King St) is a few blocks away; it charges roughly $8/hour (capped at $12/day) (en.parkopedia.com.au ). Rideshare or taxis can drop off directly in front of the pub. Late at night, remember the last trains run around midnight and there are King Street night buses (Nightride) and local taxi ranks for your trip home.
Inside the Venue
Expect a high-energy pub vibe as soon as you walk in. Kelly’s checks ID at the door for night events, since it virtually always operates as an 18+ venue (www.ticketfairy.com ). Once inside, you’ll find a relaxed, friendly atmosphere – reviews praise the “lovely staff and bouncers” and “great pub atmosphere” (www.tripadvisor.com.au ) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). The main bar serves an extensive drinks menu (beer on tap, spirits, cocktails). Happy Hour specials run 5–7pm weekdays (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ). The kitchen dished up typical pub fare: burgers, pizzas, finger foods and the famous Irish-style “spice bag” (fried potatoes and chicken tossed in chili–salt) (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Many patrons note the food is “tasty, fresh, and well cooked” (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Entertainment is everywhere – flat-screen TVs show sports matches, and there are free pool and arcade games available. As Sydney law requires smoke-free indoors, avid smokers will head out to the upstairs rooftop courtyard (Kelly’s provides that deck specifically for smoke breaks (happymag.tv )). Restrooms are located downstairs (likely including an accessible stall). There’s no formal coat-check, so guests usually hang outerwear on a hook or place it on empty chairs. All standard payment cards are accepted behind the bar, though some patrons keep a little cash on hand for tips or small purchases.
Nearby Amenities
King Street, Newtown is a vibrant strip with plenty to see before or after your visit. For dining, the immediate blocks offer a wide range of cuisines. Within a few minutes’ walk you’ll find Indian and Turkish restaurants – for example, Delhi ’O’ Delhi (Indian) is about 300m away (open for lunch/dinner) (www.tripadvisor.com ), and Pasha’s Turkish sits right on King St across from Kelly’s (www.tripadvisor.com ). There are also pizza joints, burger bars, Asian eateries and late-night diners all within easy reach. For drinks, the **Newtown Hotel** pub is just around the corner (174 King St) and opens daily from 10am (newtownhotel.com.au ). The **Enmore Hotel** (191 Enmore Rd) is another nearby pub and backpacker inn. If you need to stay longer, several hostels and private hotels in Newtown and nearby suburbs are accessible by a short taxi or train ride into the city. As a tip, arrive 15–30 minutes before showtime if you plan to eat out; King Street restaurants can get busy on weekend nights. After closing, public transport is limited; if you stay late, you may want to catch a Nightride bus from nearby King St stops, book a rideshare, or head west a block to the taxi rank at the Newtown Hotel.
What Makes This Venue Special
Kelly’s on King has a unique blend of character that sets it apart. The pub is housed in a 19th-century building (erected **1859**) (themusicandboozeco.com.au ) whose long history includes staving off a McDonald’s takeover – locals successfully campaigned to close the fast-food that occupied this corner in the 1980s/90s (themusicandboozeco.com.au ). In 1999 it was reborn as an Irish pub, and that spirit lives on. On a cultural level, Kelly’s functions as a centre of Newtown night life. Its upstairs Bootleggers room has given dozens of local bands their start – reviewers note future acts like Second Idol and A Swift Farewell “cut their teeth” on this sticky-floored stage (happymag.tv ). Media have described Kelly’s as “a mainstay of Irish-Australian culture” and a place “where Sydney’s underground scene thrives” (www.ticketfairy.com ) (happymag.tv ). The fact that Bootleggers is involved in community festivals and band circuits (themusicandboozeco.com.au ) shows its commitment to the arts. From charity fundraisers to the quirky mid-week “Badgey” games, the pub has a reputation for inclusive local traditions. All this – combined with memorable gigs, classic Friday night house bands and that famous spice bag special – makes Kelly’s more than just a bar. It’s a piece of Newtown’s heritage and a hub for creative, grassroots culture in Sydney.
Visitor Tips and Information
– Age and ID: All nighttime events are 18+ (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always carry valid government ID (driver’s licence or passport) if you plan to attend a show or enter after 6pm. Dress code: Casual attire is fine – jeans and a T-shirt or smart-casual wear. No formal dress code, but leave swimwear or sports gear at home. What to bring: Bring a small bag or none at all; large backpacks may be discouraged. You may want earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. Wallet essentials: cash (for parking or tips) and cards (bar accepts plastic). Entry fees: Normal pub nights have no cover; live concerts typically do, usually a modest fee ($10–$20). If attending a show, it’s safest to book ahead as some events sell out. Gear: Phones and small personal cameras are okay (no flash on stage). Professional video cameras or large tripods are not allowed. Smoking: On-site smoking is allowed only in the upstairs courtyard (happymag.tv ). The indoor areas are non-smoking by law. Accessibility: The ground floor pub entrance is at street level (with one step), but the upper music room is reached by stairs only. If you require accommodations (e.g. wheelchair access), it’s best to call ahead. Common mistakes: Avoid arriving at the last minute on big nights (queues can form early). Don’t try to save space for unseen friends by stacking chairs – seats are first-come. Also, note that Kelly’s kitchen closes around 10pm, so order food earlier in the evening. Connectivity: The bar does not advertise free Wi-Fi, so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kelly’s on King, and how can I get there?
Kelly’s on King is at **285 King Street, Newtown NSW 2042** (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). It’s about a 5-minute walk from Newtown train station (T2 Inner West/Leppington or T3 Bankstown lines) (moovitapp.com ). Several buses stop right outside (routes 352, 370, 422, 423, 426) (moovitapp.com ). Taxis and rideshares can drop you off on King Street at the pub entrance.
Is there parking available near Kelly’s on King?
Street parking on King Street is very limited. Closest options are paid car parks nearby. For example, a council car park at 2 Lennox Street (one block over) has 55 spaces; it’s free for 2 hours (8am–10pm) then about $2.80/hour (en.parkopedia.com.au ). The SecureParking garage at 328–330 King St (“Newtown Central”) is a short walk; its rates are roughly $8 for the first hour (capped at $12/day) (en.parkopedia.com.au ). Always check signage for restrictions.
What public transport routes serve Kelly’s on King?
Kelly’s on King is well-serviced by Sydney public transport. As noted, Newtown Station on King Street is nearby and is served by the T2 (Inner West) and T3 (Bankstown) lines (moovitapp.com ). Multiple buses run along King Street itself, including routes 352, 370, 422, 423 and 426 (moovitapp.com ). Simply get off at the stop closest to Enmore Road/King Street. There is no light rail to Newtown, so train or bus are best.
Are there hotels near Kelly’s on King?
Yes. One convenient option is **The Newtown Hotel** at 174 King Street (on the corner of King & Enmore Road) – this pub/inn opens from 10am daily (newtownhotel.com.au ) and has rooms. The Enmore Hotel (191 Enmore Rd) is another block away with bar and basic lodging. For standard hotel chains, central Sydney is only a short train ride (e.g. Ibis near Central Station). But street-side pub accommodations make Newtown popular for visitors.
What restaurants and bars are near Kelly’s on King?
King Street is lined with eatery choices. Right on the strip you’ll find Indian and Turkish cuisine – for instance, **Delhi ’O’ Delhi** (Indian, ~300m north) (www.tripadvisor.com ) and **Pasha’s Turkish Restaurant** (corner of King St) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Other nearby spots include pizza shops, burger joints, Vietnamese/Thai cafés and trendy coffee bars. If you want drinks first, the Newtown Hotel pub (174 King St) is a block away. In short, you won’t have to walk far: the entire King Street precinct is a dining and pub district.
Do I have to buy tickets or pay to enter the bar?
No ticket is needed just to enter Kelly’s on King as a pub (during normal opening hours you can simply walk in to drink). However, live music gigs or special events usually have a cover charge or ticket. These range from a small fee (often $10–$20) for band nights to free entry on quiz or karaoke ye. Check the event listing beforehand – it will say if you need to purchase a ticket for that show.
How much are tickets to shows?
Ticket prices vary by event. Free community nights (like trivia or karaoke) have no charge. Most music gigs at Kelly’s are modestly priced – usually in the **range of $10–$20** depending on the act. The pub sometimes runs cheap promotions (for example, “5 Bands for $5” nights) (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re attending a concert or DJ event, it’s best to assume there will be a cover fee. Online listings will show the exact price.
Is Kelly’s on King seated or standing room?
Kelly’s on King is primarily a **standing-room** venue for music events. Upstairs (Bootleggers) is all general admission standing – the crowd stands by the stage (happymag.tv ). There are no fixed seats or VIP booths in the gig room. The ground floor pub has bar stools and booth seats, but you won’t find reserved concert seating anywhere. So if a live show is packed, expect to stand. Arrive early if you want a spot near a barstool or table, or near the stage for the best view.
Is there reserved seating or VIP sections?
No, Kelly’s on King does not have reserved or VIP seating. For concerts in the Bootleggers room, all tickets (if sold out) grant general admission – everyone is on the floor together. There are no separate VIP areas. If you prefer to sit, your best bet is grabbing a stool or table in the downstairs pub area, though then you won’t see the stage. In short, it’s a casual pub setting with no special seating apart from standing and leaning room everywhere.
What is the age restriction at Kelly’s on King?
Kelly’s on King operates under an 18+ alcohol licence, so **all evening events are 18+** (www.ticketfairy.com ). You must be at least 18 to enter after afternoon hours; some special daytime events (like charity family fun days) may be exceptions, but for the typical live music or weekend nights it’s strictly adults. Always bring photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) as you will be carded at the door.
Is there a dress code at Kelly’s on King?
There is no formal dress code. Visitors are expected to look **casual neat** – t-shirts, jeans and closed shoes are fine (some patrons even wear band shirts or work casual). Avoid overly beachy attire (e.g. swimwear). In general, if you can wear it to any friendly pub in Sydney, it’s fine here. On big concert nights people tend to dress a bit more “rock chic”, but again it’s very open.
Are children allowed at Kelly’s on King?
Children and teens (under 18) are generally not allowed in the venue after afternoon. Kelly’s on King is primarily an adult pub and live-music venue. In practice, after 6–7pm the space is 18+ only. For very early drinks or special family events (rare), it would be on a case-by-case basis. Always check the event details–if it’s labelled “18+ only” you will need to find alternate childcare.
Can I bring a camera or record videos at Kelly’s on King?
Personal cameras and smartphones are generally fine for photos and casual videos (Audience members often film on their phones). Out of courtesy, use no flash during performances. Large video cameras (broadcast rigs) or professional photo setups usually require special permission from the venue and artist. In short: smartphone snapchats are okay; professional recording gear is not permitted without approval.
Does Kelly’s on King have free Wi-Fi or phone charging?
There is no advertised free Wi-Fi service at Kelly’s on King. This small pub relies on mobile networks for connectivity, so ensure your phone plan has data if needed. There are no public charging stations provided, so bring a charged phone/battery pack.
Is Kelly’s on King wheelchair accessible?
The ground-floor bar area is accessible at street level (aside from one front step), but the upper Bootleggers stage area is **only reachable by stairs**. There is no elevator. Patrons in wheelchairs can still use the main bar area and outdoor courtyard. For specific accommodation (e.g. if you need a ramp or have special needs), it’s best to call the venue ahead of your visit to discuss arrangements.
What kind of food does Kelly’s on King serve?
Kelly’s on King serves classic pub comfort food all evening. Expect burgers, pizzas/wraps, buffalo wings and the signature **“spice bag”** (a spicy fried chicken-and-chip combo) on the menu (www.kellysnewtown.com.au ). The food is known to be freshly made and satisfying (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Kitchen hours usually cover dinner and late-night snacks until around 10pm. So if you’re hungry, order early in the night so you’re not disappointed when they close the kitchen.
What is Bootleggers at Kelly’s on King?
“Bootleggers” is simply the name given to Kelly’s upstairs live-music room. It was rebranded in 2021 as a dedicated gig space (themusicandboozeco.com.au ). Technically it’s still part of Kelly’s on King – there’s no separate entrance – but Bootleggers is where all the concerts happen. It’s a 125-person venue, famed for rock and underground shows (happymag.tv ). Think of Bootleggers as the pub’s back-room dancefloor/stage area with sticky floors and high-energy indie/punk acts.
When did Kelly’s on King first open?
Kelly’s on King opened on 16 September 1999 (themusicandboozeco.com.au ). Before that, the site had hosted several pubs and even a McDonald’s (the fast-food closed in the mid-1990s after local outcry) (themusicandboozeco.com.au ). Since 1999 it’s been continuously operated as an Irish-style pub, which makes it over two decades old now (many regulars remember the grand opening!).
