The Bassendean Hotel, affectionately known as “The Basso”, is a beautifully restored neighbourhood pub that manages to feel both historic and fresh at the same time. Serving the thirsty since 1930, it has long been a cornerstone of the local community, and its most recent revamp has firmly cemented it as a go-to spot for families looking for an easy, relaxed meal out together. With multiple bars, a big leafy courtyard and a purpose-built Playground, it’s the kind of place where you can linger over a drink while the kids are happily entertained nearby.
Step inside and you’ll notice how much care has gone into preserving the building’s heritage charm while making it genuinely welcoming for all ages. Original architectural features like timber beams, exposed brickwork, remnants of pressed tin ceilings and old fireplaces have been revealed and celebrated as part of the redesign, giving the venue a warm, character-filled feel that tells the story of Bassendean’s past.
Historic photographs line the walls, and each space has its own personality, from cosy lounges to airy dining areas, so you can pick a spot to suit your mood – casual family lunch, date night, or catch up with friends.
One of the biggest drawcards for families is the outdoor courtyard. Easily accessed from both the carpark and street, it’s dotted with picnic-style tables and is where many parents gravitate, especially when visiting with younger children.
The gated Playground sits right alongside, meaning you can keep an eye on the kids while still enjoying your meal or drink. Drawing inspiration from local flora, fauna and history, the play area includes a large climbing tower with an enclosed slide, a sandpit and plenty of wall space for drawing and chalk creations. It’s thoughtfully designed to give kids plenty to do, and makes it realistic for parents to stay a little longer without restlessness setting in.
The Playground isn’t the only family-friendly touch. The hotel has clearly been designed with kids in mind, right down to the amenities and dining options. The children’s menu covers familiar pub-style favourites, and while it may look standard at first glance, the presentation and extras help it stand out. A fried chicken and chips meal, for example, comes with a dip and a small dessert included, which feels like a special treat for little diners and is a clever way to encourage them to stay at the table a bit longer before racing back to play. High chairs are available, and with the mix of indoor and outdoor seating, it’s easy to find a setup that works for prams or bigger family groups.
Adults are well catered for too. Food is a big focus at The Bassendean Hotel, with a menu built around good quality, seasonal produce and plenty of options to share. You’ll find classic pub dishes alongside more modern plates, making it equally suitable for a quick midweek meal or a celebratory family get-together. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty pub favourite, a wood-fired style pizza or something a bit lighter, there’s likely to be something to suit. The drinks offering spans tap beers, wine and cocktails, with bars dotted throughout the venue so you’re never far from a refill. There’s also the handy option to order from your phone at the table, which is particularly helpful when you’re juggling kids and don’t want to stand in a queue at the bar.
Beyond everyday dining, The Bassendean Hotel often has something happening, from live sport on big screens in the sports bar through to regular food and drink specials and family-friendly events. The layout means you can choose a quieter corner away from the TV action if that’s more your style, or dive into the buzz of the main bar areas. There are also multiple function spaces, including the rebuilt balcony and private rooms, making it a strong candidate for birthday parties, milestone celebrations or end-of-season team wind-ups, with the bonus of that Playground to keep younger guests entertained.
Accessibility is another plus. The hotel sits right on Old Perth Road, close to public transport, and there is a generous amount of parking available nearby. Entry to the courtyard and Playground area is straightforward from both street and carpark, and the overall feel is inclusive – somewhere that welcomes locals dropping in for a casual drink just as much as families settling in for Sunday lunch.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly venue in Perth’s eastern suburbs with good food, a genuine sense of history and a fantastic Playground, The Bassendean Hotel is well worth a visit. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an afternoon catching up with friends while the kids make the most of the outdoor space and play area, and where you’ll leave already planning your next trip back to “The Basso”.
The Bassendean Hotel
Address: 25 Old Perth Road, Bassendean WA 6054
Opening Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 11:00am – 10:00pm
Friday & Saturday: 11:00am – 12:00am
Sunday: 11:00am – 10:00pm
Website: https://thebassendeanhotel.com.au
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Heidy is currently juggling her plates as a stay at home mum and solo business owner. She has been in the blogging world since 2009 capturing all things fashion, lifestyle and travel stories under the name Love thy Muse which now seems like a distant memory. These days you can find her living on the gram connecting with other mamas in biz and sharing her #mumlife tales whilst out and about. Feel free to follow and connect with Heidy on Instagram or Linkedin!
