Middle Park Hotel

The Middle Park Hotel is a rare example of a sports-themed pub done well. A refit by architects Six Degrees has married sporting prints and memorabilia with an elegant interior design. Timber panelling (reappropriated from the MCC Long Room) and leather upholstery carries through the public bar to a section of private booths out the back. The drinks list is long and seductive, with plenty of Australian beers by the bottle, a huge range of spirits and a $1100 bottle of champagne if a glass of King Valley pinot gris doesn't cut it. The bar menu, overseen by chef-about-town Paul Wilson, is one of the best around.

With its retro sports paraphernalia, timber panelling and dark carpets, there's something very English about this pub, making it a splendid spot to head when the skies are grey and gloomy.