About Corner Hotel
The Corner Hotel is a historic live-music pub and rooftop bar at 57 Swan Street in Richmond, Victoria, on Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country. Originally licensed in 1871 and rebuilt in the 1960s, it remains a classic two-storey Victorian pub that has been a music venue since the 1940s. Today it features a large ground-floor bandroom with stage, a separate City Bar for sports and drinks, and a lively rooftop deck (complete with a pool table) that offers views over Melbourne’s sporting precinct. After Wayne Gale launched rock shows there in 1983, the Corner became a pillar of the local scene, and under current owners Tim Northeast and Mathew Everett (since the mid-1990s) it has earned accolades as one of Australia’s top live venues. The atmosphere blends pub culture with concert energy: punters line up on Swan Street, then inside enjoy reclaimed wood walls, gig posters and a full bar. As one travel review notes, Corner Hotel has “well and truly established itself as a port of call for music lovers and sports fans alike,” combining “great food, great games and great music” under one roof.
Over the decades the Corner has hosted countless notable shows. It regularly accommodates international and indie acts – in recent years performers from rock, metal, hip-hop, indie and electronic genres have taken the stage – as well as big sports-screen crowd events. Its reputation is legendary: Mick Jagger and David Gilmour famously played unannounced DJ sets here in 1988, U2 filmed a rooftop video in 2006, and The White Stripes developed the riff to “Seven Nation Army” during a 2003 soundcheck. Australian music icons have also graced the corner: Crowded House chose it for their 1996 farewell Melbourne show, and bands like The Living End, The Hives, Diplo, Tame Impala, Amy Shark and Lorde have performed there. Locally it’s revered for nurturing talent – the venue runs the annual Corner Award for emerging Australian artists (past winners include Sampa the Great, Cable Ties and Baker Boy) – and since 2005 it became one of the first Australian venues to mandate smoke-free gigs.
Thanks to its long history and friendly vibe, the Corner Hotel is a unique Melbourne institution. It has won multiple industry awards (including Music Victoria’s Best Venue over 500 capacity and several AHA Best Entertainment Venue titles) and even ranks among Pollstar’s world top 100 club venues. Its mix of rock heritage, cosy pub feel and modern amenities makes it a beloved local landmark. In short, the Corner Hotel matters because it encapsulates Melbourne’s rich live-music culture and sports bar tradition in one lively, character-filled corner of Richmond.
Events and Programming
The Corner Hotel runs live events most nights of the week, featuring a wide variety of performances. Its mainstage bandroom usually hosts rock, indie, metal, punk, hip-hop and electronic concerts from local and touring artists. Ticketed gigs often include headline acts (Aussie and international) plus one or two support bands. In recent years the lineup has seen everything from heavy bands like The Amity Affliction to electronic acts like Flight Facilities, as well as singer-songwriters and pop stars playing intimate club sets. In addition to music, the venue holds special events such as comedy nights, charity shows and album launches. The rooftop bar area is sometimes used for outdoor DJ sets, quiz or trivia nights (often on weeknights), open-mic nights and weekly events like pub quizzes that draw in local crowds.
Sports is also part of Corner’s programming. The City Bar regularly screens major footy (AFL), rugby and soccer games on its big TVs, making it a popular stop for fans on match days (its proximity to the MCG and AAMI Park in Richmond’s sporting precinct reinforces this). On non-business nights, the bar is open from noon (and from 4pm on Mondays) as a gastropub and sports lounge – customers can drop in without tickets for meals, drinks and games. The kitchen stays open most of the day, serving pub classics like burgers, steaks, seafood and share plates until late evening (closing typically around 10–11pm on gig nights). In short, Corner Hotel’s programming spans daily food/service hours, live music gigs almost every night, and regular sports or themed events on the big screens.
Most concerts at the Corner have a cover charge in a moderate range. Local or up-and-coming bands often have tickets around $20–$30, while bringing in bigger names or touring acts can push prices toward $40–$60. Nearby sports screenings and pub quizzes are generally free (pay for your food and drinks only). Since Corner is popular, many shows sell out quickly. Sign up for the venue’s newsletter or follow their social media to get early alerts on new events and presales. The venue announces a calendar of upcoming gigs on its official site, and tickets usually go on sale as soon as shows are announced. For fans of particular artists, joining fan clubs or radio station circles (like RRR or PBS in Melbourne) can yield presale options for some gigs. In all cases, advance booking is recommended when possible, as standing-room venues tend to fill up fast once word is out. (On the night of a show, if tickets remain, they become available at the box office – see below.)
Tickets and Booking
Ticket purchase for concerts at Corner Hotel is handled through the venue’s official ticketing channels. You can buy tickets online via the Corner Hotel’s website or through its approved ticketing partner (check the official gigs page for links). Phone sales are not offered, but the venue has a small box office window where tickets can be purchased in person on the day of an event – usually open in the afternoon up to about 4pm or so. If an event has not sold out, a limited number of tickets (often at a slightly higher “door price”) will be available to buy at the door after that time. Events marked as “sold out” online may still release a few door tickets, so it’s worth asking at the entry if you arrive early on show night.
Ticket prices vary widely by show. Many local band nights and smaller tours are in the $20–$35 range, while headline acts or festivals can be higher. There are sometimes discounted advance or presale tickets and tiered pricing (e.g. early-bird vs standard). If you’re after an extra ticket after official sales close, the venue recommends using a verified resale platform (such as Fan-2-Fan services) to avoid scams – often links are posted on the event listing pages. For big shows, try to secure tickets as soon as they go on sale (often weeks before the gig), because popular nights can sell out days in advance. When booking, double-check event age restrictions (Corner’s bandroom is strictly 18+ unless otherwise advertised) and bring a photo ID (driver licence or passport) if you plan on buying alcohol. Finally, note that all ticket sales are subject to the venue’s policy: save your receipt/email QR code and mind any date-change announcements – if a show is moved or cancelled, the original tickets are usually still valid for the new date or eligible for refund, as the venue and ticketing service will notify holders by email.
Seating and Layout
Corner Hotel has a multi-level layout designed for both standing crowds and seated areas. The heart of the venue is the main bandroom on the ground floor. This space is large and mostly flat or gently sloping; the stage sits at one end and the audience fills the floor in front. There are a few low bench areas and ledges around the edges (and a small raised area at the very back) where patrons can sit or lean. Because the bandroom is general admission, no seats are reserved – arrive early if you want a front-row spot. Watch out for the two support pillars near the stage, as standing directly behind those can obscure the view. Throughout the crowd area, the acoustics and lighting are excellent, so wherever you stand you’ll hear and see the show (though some fans prefer the front or the rear stairs for the clearest sound).
Layout at a glance:
- Band Room: Main concert hall (general admission). Mostly standing room, with a few bench seating areas at the sides and a couple of step-up platforms at the rear for extra height. The bar is along one side wall. Small coat/cloakroom is available near the stage entrance (coat check fees usually apply).
- City Bar: Adjacent ground-floor pub area (street front). Has lounge tables, a separate entrance and sports-focus. This section often hosts those who arrive early or want to watch live TV games, and it spills into the bandroom when bigger crowds gather. Seats and high tables means it’s good for dining and casual drinks if you prefer sitting.
- Rooftop Bar: Accessible by stairs (or lift near the City Bar), the upstairs level opens to the sky (covered in part) and overlooks the Swan Street intersection. It features outdoor seating, couches and a pool table. While no concerts are performed up here, it’s a popular chill-out spot between sets and offers great views of the Melbourne skyline and sports fields. (Note: there is a decorative swimming pool on the roof that is not for public use.)
The venue is flexible for private events too. Some gigs or dinners take place in the upstairs function rooms (“Legends Lounge”, “Dining Room”), which have their own tables and steps. These areas have limited capacity and are accessed via a small staircase (they are not wheelchair-accessible). For a concert, however, guests usually stay on the ground floor and rooftop. In any space, the sound system is well-balanced, so even people at the sides or far back can enjoy clear audio. The best spots depend on your preference: near the centre front for energy and proximity to the stage; mid-crowd near a pillar or bar for backup; far back on the stairs or rooftop for a broad view and a chance to sit. Keep in mind that all general concerts are standing-room only. Only specific events (like seated dinners or speaker sessions) would have reserved chairs.
Getting There and Parking
The Corner Hotel’s address is 57 Swan Street, Richmond (corner of Swan and Stewart Streets). It’s located in Richmond’s Swan Street strip, just east of Melbourne’s CBD and adjacent to the Richmond railway bridge. The venue is extremely well-connected by public transport:
- Train: Richmond Station is just 50–100 metres from the venue (the first stop east of Flinders Street Station on City Loop lines). All suburban trains on the Burnley, Glen Waverley and Belgrave/Lilydale lines stop at Richmond. From Flinders Street it’s a 3–4 minute ride; from Southern Cross around 5 minutes. On foot from the station, cross Swan Street and walk a few yards southwest under the railway bridge to reach Corner’s main entrance.
- Tram: Tram route 70 (from Flinders Street/Queen Street in the CBD out to Glen Iris/Wattle Park) runs along Swan Street and stops right outside the door (stop #9). You can also use route 75 (from Central Station along Spencer Street, then along Flinders Street and Swan Street past the MCG); it stops a couple of blocks east on Swan Street (near Church Street) and requires a brief walk west. Trams run frequently during the day — simply buy a Myki ticket or pass.
- Bus: While trams cover Swan Street, buses can bring you to nearby stops. For example, Route 246 (from Clifton Hill to Elsternwick) stops at the corner of Hoddle and Swan Street, a 3–4 minute walk north of the venue. Other routes run along nearby streets like Hoddle or Bridge Road if needed.
- Rideshare/Taxi: A licensed taxi stand is a short walk away on Richmond Station Drive, or you can request drop-off on Stewart Street just north of the venue (there is an official Uber & rideshare hotspot there). Look for the large marked drop-off zone at Swan & Stewart; staff can guide you if needed.
- Cycling/Walking: If you’re close by, Swan Street and Richmond in general are very bike-and-walk friendly. There are bike lanes on Swan and Hoddle Streets, and a bicycle cage at Richmond Station. From the CBD it’s about a 15–20 minute walk (through the Yarra or via bridge), but typically people will use train or tram.
Parking in Richmond can be limited. There is no dedicated parking lot for the hotel, so most visitors rely on street parking or public lots. On Swan Street and the surrounding roads you’ll find 1–2 hour metered parking (weekdays typically 8am–6pm) and some 24hr spots. Note that on event evenings (especially weekends) the street meters may be restricted or only 1 hour. For longer stays, popular options are the paid public carparks nearby: one at 28-50 Palmer Street (behind the station) and another multi-story garage at 72 Stevenson Street (a few blocks south). These charge roughly $5–$10 for a few hours. A few hours’ free parking is often possible on nearby side streets in the early evening or on Sundays. In general, however, taking public transit is easier on busy nights. Leaving the car at home avoids the hassle of hunting spaces or paying for parking near Swan Street.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Corner Hotel (usually through the Swan Street main entrance or the accessible ramp on Botherambo Street around the block), you’ll immediately see a classic pub interior with warm wood accents, band posters and memorabilia on the walls, and a long bar. Depending on whether a show is on, staff will guide entry. For concerts, show tickets (printed or on phone) are scanned at the door. Security staff check for age, medical wristbands (if any), and ensure no prohibited items come in. The door staff and bar crew at Corner are well-trained and friendly – they balance tight crowd control with an easygoing attitude commonly praised by visitors.
Entry and Hours: The venue operates as a restaurant and bar daily. On non-event days (e.g. weekday afternoons), it’s open from around noon (4pm Mondays) and you can come in for lunch or drinks without any cover charge. On show nights, doors for the bandroom typically open about 1 hour before the first listed start time (for example, if a gig is 8pm–11pm then doors might be at 7pm). Staff usually post the door time on tickets and online listings, so check ahead. If you plan to get a good spot, lining up outside (to the left of the main door on Swan Street) about 30–45 minutes early is normal, especially for big acts.
Food and Drink: Corner Hotel has a full bar and kitchen. The bar serves local craft beers on tap, wines by the glass, spirits and pub cocktails. Drink prices are typical for an inner-city pub (e.g. around $8–$10 for a pint or glass of wine). The kitchen menu ranges from burgers and steaks to pizzas, fish & chips, salads and vegetarian dishes. On concert nights, food orders are usually taken at the bar (or by roaming waiter service when seated on the rooftop). If you want a meal, the safe bet is to arrive a bit early – food service often closes 30–45 minutes before a show starts due to the restaurant shifting to concert mode. And yes, Corner is known for its signature burgers (including a vegetarian “falafel burger”) and hearty pub fare. TripAdvisor reviewers frequently mention the tasty meals available at fair prices.
Atmosphere and Facilities: Expect the vibe to be loud and crowded during shows. The bandroom will have stage lighting and sound effects; the City Bar area will have ambient lighting and any big screens turned off during a concert so nothing distracts from the stage. Between bands or during breaks, you can step outside for some air or head upstairs to the rooftop lounge to relax. The rooftop and City Bar often stay open even after shows (sometimes with DJ music) for late-night drinks.
Restrooms and Extras: Restrooms are located on each floor. On the bandroom level they are near the side bar (note these can queue on busy nights). There are wheelchair-accessible toilets on the rooftop level (accessed via the lift or ramp). Other amenities: the bandroom has a small coatroom/lockers where you can check heavy coats or bags (fees vary). Lost property is also handled by staff; they keep found items for a few months in case you misplaced something. If you need assistance (e.g. finding a friend, medical help, or cooling down), the friendly staff and security are trained to help – just ask them. The venue enforces a no stage-diving or crowd-surfing rule for safety, and no illegal substances (police can be called if needed) – it is strictly ID-checked and 18+ for bandroom shows. Otherwise, resident security personnel are there only to keep the event running smoothly.
Connectivity: There is no official free Wi-Fi for patrons, and mobile reception can be spotty inside (especially near the stage, which is not uncommon in older buildings). The only fast internet access is via mobile 4G on your own phone if the signal is good (it usually is okay near the windows or upstairs). Many attendees end up just turning off video streaming and enjoying the live show, but if you need to check messages upstairs on the rooftop or at the City Bar, reception is better there.
Nearby Amenities
The area around Corner Hotel is lively and full of options when it comes to dining, drinks and lodging:
- Restaurants and Cafés: Swan Street is lined with eateries and cafes within a few minutes’ walk. For a quick bite before a show, you could grab Asian cuisine on Church Street (just a block north) – popular spots include Korean fried chicken and sashimi places. Modern Australian bistros and pizzerias can be found on nearby Bridge Road. For casual pub-style food, next door on Swan Street is the Sun Hotel (which has its own large beer garden and often shares the corner menu). Across the street from Corner is “The Corner Burger” stand (casual take-away burgers) and just a bit further are Thai and Italian restaurants. In general, if you arrive early there are plenty of pre-show dining options on Swan/Bridge/Church Streets; just note kitchen closing times on gig nights as mentioned above.
- Bars and Pubs: Aside from Corner itself, Richmond has many pubs and bars within walking distance. On Swan Street and Bridge Road you’ll find craft beer bars, wine bars and sports pubs (for example, The Sun Hotel, The Nile, and the brand new “Rhythm and Rye”). Many bars stay open late, so they’re good for after-show drinks. Some patrons like to continue the party on the City Bar dancefloor or head to nearby late-night spots on Church Street.
- Hotels and Accommodation: Richmond is primarily residential and hospitality, rather than having large hotels right on Swan Street. However, there are a few options nearby. The Adina Apartment Hotel (Richmond) is about 10 minutes’ walk northeast and offers rooms/apartments; similarly the ibis Styles or Totem Hotel heritage property are on Bridge Road within a few blocks. For more choices, Richmond Station has the Crowne Plaza (apartments) next to it, and a bit further along Bridge Road are chain hotels like Holiday Inn or Quest apartments. Most Melbourne CBD hotels (Flinders Street, Spring Street) are only 1–2 tram stops or a 5 minute train ride away from Richmond station if you prefer staying in the city center. The key is: if you’re attending a late show at the Corner, the easiest options are usually the local apartment hotels or staying in the CBD and commuting out.
- Transit and Walking Directions: If you’re exploring Richmond on foot, Swan Street is easy to navigate. From Richmond Station, turn left on Swan (toward the bridge) and walk straight for under a minute; Corner Hotel will be on your right at the Stewart Street corner. From Flinders Street Station in the city, just take the No.70 tram east along Flinders Street and Swan Street, and get off at stop 9 (Swan/Stewart) – you’ll step off the tram almost at the door. On a nice afternoon, it’s also a pleasant 15–20 minute walk from the CBD riverfront across one of the Yarra River bridges and then east along commercial Swan Street, though public transport is usually faster and easier with luggage. Late at night, Melbourne runs night buses and trains: Richmond still has frequent train service after midnight on weekends, and a night bus stops a few blocks away at Bromby Street if needed.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Corner Hotel’s unique character comes from its blend of history, local culture and a community vibe. Architecturally, it retains the charm of a classic turn-of-the-century Melbourne pub: pressed tin ceilings, vintage pub lights and a checkerboard bar counter give it an old-school feel. But it’s also been modernised for live music, with a big clear stage, industrial lighting rigs and high-quality sound. The result is an intimate yet energetic club atmosphere – you feel close to the performers, and the crowd’s energy is constant. Fans often say there’s “no bad seat” for sound, and with the city bar spilling into the gig space, you’re never far from a drink between songs.
Culturally, the Corner stands out because it truly bridges sports and music communities. In Melbourne that’s a rare combo – it’s equally at home with a rock moshpit and with post-game fans watching an AFL final on TV. It even has its own cultural legacy: several musicians got their start here (many winners of ‘Corner Award’ have gone on to national fame), and local patrons feel a strong sense of pride in the venue. It has been the site of many “legendary” moments – from mentoring young acts to hosting surprise pop-up shows – that give it a special place in Melbourne’s music folklore.
Partners and staff also contribute to its uniqueness. Alongside Northeast and Everett, the Corner is operated by a team with deep industry roots; the friendly, knowledgeable staff make it feel welcoming. The venue prides itself on inclusion: in recent years it’s become known for safe-night initiatives and strict anti-harassment policies, so it’s a comfortable place to enjoy music late into the evening. Its rooftop bar is another special feature – very few inner-city pubs have an outdoor deck with seating and a (non-swimmable) pool. The rooftop not only adds extra capacity, but also creates a relaxed social space that you won’t find at most clubs.
Finally, the awards and recognition are telling: Corner Hotel has been voted Victoria’s Best Live Venue (over 500 capacity) multiple times, won national hospitality awards for entertainment, and consistently ranks in the top global club venues by industry polls. In layman’s terms, this is the place where Melbourne’s music scene (past, present and future) meets its sports scene – all under one corner roof. That makes it special to artists and audiences, and is why so many people consider a night at Corner to be an essential Melbourne experience.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Corner Hotel provides wheelchair access via a ramp on Botherambo Street (the more accessible entrance). Once inside on the ground floor, the main bandroom is mostly level, though there are a couple of shallow steps to reach the rear raised standing area. Accessible toilets are available: one near the stage in the bandroom, and a fully equipped toilet on the rooftop level (reached by lift). Note that the upstairs dining/“Legends Lounge” area has steps and is not wheelchair-friendly. If you need assistance, such as lifting a chair or special seating, let the staff at the bar know and they can accommodate you.
What to Bring: Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to buy alcohol (corner policy is 18+ on band nights). Wear comfortable shoes (it can get hot and crowded). It’s wise to carry a small amount of cash or a card – the bar accepts cards and there may be minimal ATM access. Consider packing earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud sound, as rock shows can be intense. A light jacket or beanie can be a good idea in winter if you plan to hang out on the open rooftop between sets (even though it’s partially sheltered, it faces the night sky). The rooftop is not open to the sky during heavy rain, but it’s wise to check the weather; umbrellas cannot be used inside.
What Not to Bring: To keep the venue safe and enjoyable for all, the Corner enforces certain rules. Do not bring your own alcohol, drinks, or food – only items purchased on-site are allowed. Large backpacks or hard cases should be left in a cloakroom or at home if possible, as security may ask you to check them (small handbags or slim camera bags are usually OK). Photography is allowed with phones or small cameras for personal use (just kindly turn off the flash during performances). However, professional cameras or video recording equipment requires prior permission (and in practice are often not allowed unless you’re press or have a pass). Finally, demeanour rules: no crowd surfing, stage diving or flinging objects; security and bartenders will ask you to stop any dangerous behaviour. Smoking is prohibited indoors (as per law), but smoking outside on Swan Street is permitted if you step away from the door.
Arrival Time: For concerts, it’s a good idea to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before the headliner starts. This allows time to find parking/public transit, line up (if necessary) and get a good spot. If you want food in the City Bar or City Bar area, come earlier (some fans grab a bite at the in-house kitchen or adjacent eateries). The bandroom doors often open about an hour before showtime, so early arrivals can comfortably queue just inside and order a drink.
Age and Tickets: Unless a show is explicitly billed as all-ages, assume it is 18+ entry. No one under 18 is admitted into the bandroom on a normal concert night (even with a ticket). If someone in your group is not of age, check the event listing – the occasional matinee or youth event will say “under 18 allowed.”
Group Bookings: If you want to reserve a spot for dining or drinks (not general admission shows), Corner Hotel can take group bookings of up to 15 in the seated dining areas (contact their functions email in advance). However, this typically means sitting in the City Bar/legends lounge and not the standing crowd. For popular concerts no private tables exist in the bandroom – it’s first-come, first-served at the door for those shows.
Nearby Transit After the Show: If your gig runs late, remember Melbourne’s late-night transport. On Friday and Saturday nights, trains continue running to Richmond late into the night under the Night Network schedule (every 60 minutes between ~1am and 4am). Outside those hours, you can catch a 24-hour Night Bus in nearby streets (for example, the 947 to the CBD stops a block away on Bromby Street). Taxis and rideshares are plentiful near Richmond Station as well. If roads or trainlines are closed (special event nights in the city), plan an extra 15 minutes for diversions. Local hotels or CBD stays ensure you’re not scrambling for a ride home – a short walk back to Richmond Station is usually the fastest option for city-bound travel.
Final Reminders: Corner Hotel’s character partly comes from its well-run, no-mess vibe. Staff here enforce a respectful environment – if you see any trouble, trust they will handle it. Plan ahead so you don’t miss the start (doors often close when shows are underway), and enjoy the mix of pub fun and live music. Last but not least, the Corner is beloved for being unpretentious: casual Aussie attire is fine, and everybody is there to have a good time. Keep your ticket handy on entry, your ID for drinks, and your excitement ready. Then soak in the friendly chaos that makes Corner Hotel a Melbourne institution.
