If you’re looking for a family-friendly pub in Perth’s northern suburbs, Whale & Ale Tavern in Clarkson has become an even better option. Following the unfortunate accident that destroyed the previous Playground, the venue has reopened with a brand-new outdoor play space that’s already proving popular with families. Combined with generous pub meals, a welcoming atmosphere and an existing indoor kids’ area, it’s an easy choice for a relaxed family lunch or dinner.
The new Playground is undoubtedly the highlight for little visitors. It’s fully enclosed with two safety gates, giving parents extra peace of mind while the kids play. At its centre are two wooden cubbies connected by an open slide, with wooden stairs leading up on either side. Children can scramble up the rock-climbing wall, race down the slide and make use of the generous space underneath for imaginative games.
My two spent most of our visit pretending they were neighbours, running between the cubbies and inventing endless games of hide-and-seek. Rather than focusing purely on climbing equipment, the Playground encourages creative play, making it suitable for a wide range of ages. The soft-fall flooring and artificial grass also make the area comfortable underfoot. The only downside is the lack of shade, so visiting earlier in the day or during the cooler months is a good idea.
One of the things that makes Whale & Ale work so well for families is the seating layout. There are indoor and outdoor dining areas, with plenty of tables positioned close enough to the Playground that you can comfortably supervise the kids while enjoying your meal.
Inside, the tavern has a warm, inviting feel with natural timber finishes and cosy fireplaces that make winter visits especially enjoyable.
The original indoor play nook is still available too, complete with a television showing children’s movies, toys and comfortable seating, giving younger children another option if they’d rather play indoors.
The menu offers classic pub favourites alongside more substantial meals, and the portions certainly don’t disappoint. I ordered the Whale Burger, which was packed with flavour and large enough to leave me completely satisfied. It even convinced my very fussy children to try beetroot, which felt like a small parenting victory.
The kids happily tucked into the chicken tenders and chips, and any leftovers could be packed up to take home. Overall, the meals were generous, tasty and offered excellent value for money.
Families can also take advantage of the tavern’s regular kids’ dining offers. Mondays feature Kids Eat Free, and at the time of our visit the venue was also running a Wednesday to Friday promotion where purchasing an adult meal valued at $20 or more includes one free kids’ meal (excluding drinks, with terms and conditions applying). It’s worth checking the current promotions before you visit, as offers may change.
Whether you’re stopping in after shopping at Ocean Keys Shopping Centre, visiting the nearby Clarkson Library, or simply searching for somewhere the kids can burn off some energy while the adults enjoy a meal, Whale & Ale Tavern delivers a relaxed family-friendly experience. There’s open parking behind the venue, while undercover parking is also available at Ocean Keys Shopping Centre with just a short walk across.
Whale & Ale Tavern
Address: Cnr Ocean Keys Boulevard & Key Largo Drive, Clarkson WA 6030
Opening Hours:
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Monday to Thursday: 11.00 am – 9.00 pm
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Friday to Saturday: 11.00 am – 11.30 pm
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Sunday: 11.00 am – 9.00 pm
Website: https://whaleandale.com.au/
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Amelia Strachan is a South African-born stay-at-home mum living in Perth, Australia. As Team Strachan found on Instagram, her family roams far and wide, from the North to the South, and from the valleys to the hills. Passionate about family, adventure, and the outdoors, Amelia captures treasured Aussie moments while celebrating the joys of motherhood and life Down Under.
