Affectionately known as “The Herdy”, The Herdsman Lake Tavern is a true local favourite in Wembley and a very solid choice for an easy, family‑friendly meal. The hotel has a cosy, classic pub feel but with plenty of modern touches, including multiple dining areas, a state‑of‑the‑art Sports Lounge and a large kids play area, so everyone in the family is catered for.
The bistro itself is spacious, easily seating a couple of hundred people without feeling cramped. Tables are well spread out, and there are toilets at both ends of the dining area, plus a parent room and baby change facilities, which makes life much easier with little ones in tow. The adjoining main bar and sports bar wrap around a large central bar and kitchen, so you’re never far from the action if you’re ducking in to watch the footy on the big screens.
Food‑wise, The Herdsman Lake Tavern focuses on hearty pub classics with a modern twist. Expect generous “pub grub” portions that will fill even the hungriest tummies, along with lighter and healthier options, fresh seafood and daily chef’s specials. The kitchen leans on locally sourced ingredients and house‑made elements, and there’s usually something on the specials board to tempt you away from your usual order. The menu caters for a range of dietary requirements, and pricing is very reasonable for the portion sizes.
Families are particularly well looked after. There’s an extensive kids’ menu with all the favourites to keep even fussy eaters happy. Even better for families, kids eat free every Sunday with a main meal purchased, making it an especially budget‑friendly option to round out the weekend. It’s always a good idea to check current terms and conditions with the venue when you book, as offers can change.
While you finish your meal or wait for food to arrive, children can burn off some energy in the large, enclosed indoor play area. It’s visible from the bistro, so you can keep an eye on them while still relaxing at the table. The venue has also been known to host family fun days and extra kids’ activities on weekends, adding to its appeal as a regular family hang‑out.
Beyond casual meals, The Herdsman Lake Tavern doubles as a versatile function venue. There are both private and semi‑private spaces available, and the hotel can host everything from kids’ birthday parties, christenings and milestone family celebrations through to engagement parties, corporate seminars and sporting club functions.
The tavern is open every day, with the kitchen serving across lunch and dinner, making it an easy choice for a mid‑week bite, a weekend lunch after sport or a relaxed Sunday dinner. Online bookings are available through the official website, which is recommended at busier times so you can secure a table close to the play area or screens if you’re there for the game.
Easily accessible off Herdsman Parade and with plenty on offer for both adults and kids, The Herdsman Lake Tavern continues to tick all the boxes for a relaxed, family‑friendly pub experience in Perth’s western suburbs.
The Herdsman Lake Tavern
Address: 33 Herdsman Parade, Wembley WA 6014
Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00am – late; Saturday – Sunday: 10:00am – late
Website: https://www.herdsmantavern.com.au/
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Jennie McNichol is on a mission to prove there is always something fun to do in Perth. After 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie moved to Perth in 2010 and founded Buggybuddys to silence the “nothing to do” crowd. Fifteen years later, it is the city’s number one guide for families, packed with daily inspiration and a huge focus on free local activities.
As a mum of two daughters, Jennie has evolved the site right alongside her own family—growing from a toddler-focused resource into a guide that supports parents through every stage, from the early years through to the teens. A passionate advocate for the WA lifestyle, Jennie loves helping families discover the best playgrounds, hidden gems, and budget-friendly days out in the most family-friendly city in the world.
