About The Welsh Dragon Bar
The Welsh Dragon Bar is a cozy, Welsh-themed pub and live-music venue tucked away on Cambridge Terrace in Wellington’s Mount Victoria neighborhood. It opened around 2004 and proudly markets itself as the *“only Welsh bar in the Southern Hemisphere,”* a reputation echoed by Welsh media (nation.cymru ) (nation.cymru ). Run by Welsh owners, it’s a true home-away-from-home for expats and locals alike. The interior is decorated with Welsh flags, dragon emblems, and sports jerseys from Welsh rugby and football, reflecting its strong cultural theme (nation.cymru ) (nation.cymru ). Patrons praise its friendly atmosphere and British-style pub fare. Despite its small size, it has become a local landmark in Wellington’s night scene. The venue operates nightly, generally opening in the late afternoon and closing around 3 am (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (evendo.com ). Its classic stone and brick interior and warm lighting give the bar a snug, welcoming feel, complete with unique touches like carved dragons and rugby memorabilia on the walls (www.ticketfairy.com ) (nation.cymru ).
Events and Programming
The Welsh Dragon Bar hosts a wide variety of events and performances, making it a vibrant part of Wellington’s entertainment scene. Regular programming includes live music on most nights, ranging from local bands and singer-songwriters to guitar-driven indie acts and acoustic nights under warm stage lighting (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, the venue runs a free monthly jazz series on the last Wednesday of each month, featuring Wellington jazz musicians (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Comedy is also on offer – the bar partners with Cartel Comedy for Dragon Comedy Open Mic nights, where both new and seasoned comedians entertain the crowd (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Quiz nights and trivia are a staple (often early in the week) (www.ticketfairy.com ), and DJs spin eclectic mix of music to keep the dance floor lively on weekends (www.ticketfairy.com ). Themed events are another highlight: for years the bar has celebrated mid-winter “Christmas” in July/June complete with turkey dinners and decorations (nation.cymru ) (nation.cymru ). National Welsh teams have even visited—the Wales women’s rugby squad famously presented signed jerseys during the 2023 WXV tournament (nation.cymru ). Due to its varied lineup, performances are usually a mix of free entry (especially weekly jazz or quiz events) and low-cost tickets for special concerts or festivals. In short, you can expect live rock/folk bands, acoustic folk sets, DJ dance nights, quiz evenings and community parties – all with a uniquely Welsh spin.
Tickets and Booking
Most events at The Welsh Dragon Bar do not require advance ticket purchase. In fact, many regular nights – such as the Wednesday Jazz Spectacular – are advertised as free admission (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Larger concerts or special shows may have a small cover charge or benefit-ticketing collected at the door. There is no formal box office; tickets (if any) are usually sold online through ticketing sites or at the bar itself on the night of the show. For the latest lineup, check local event listings or the bar’s social media. Popular or ticketed gigs can sell out, so it’s wise to arrive early or book any advertised seats in advance through approved outlets. General seating and viewing are usually first-come-first-served. In budget terms, drink prices at the bar are comparable to other Wellington pubs (expect standard pint prices around NZ$8–$12), and food is typical pub-fare pricing. Frequently, the most economical strategy is simply to plan for walk-up attendance; if cover charges do apply, they tend to be modest. The bar’s friendly staff can answer any presale or ticket questions if you call ahead, but otherwise browsing events and arriving early usually suffices.
Seating and Layout
The Welsh Dragon Bar has a small, open-plan layout with a main bar area and adjacent sections. Wooden benches and tables line the walls, but most nightlife events are general-admission standing room. A raised stage or performance area is set against one wall, so the best views are standing or sitting near the front, by the stage. Tickets or reservations do not guarantee fixed seating – it’s a classic pub gig environment. For those who want a seat, there are a few tables and bar stools scattered throughout; their vantage can be good, though mixing with the crowd is part of the fun. A screened-off “function area” at the back (often used for private parties) can hold roughly 20–70 people comfortably (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). In practice this means the entire venue’s capacity is on that order (around 70–80 in one setup). There’s also a corner with a pool table and dartboard where people can play games away from the music. The ceiling is moderately low, helping acoustics feel warm and intimate. Sound and lighting systems are tuned to the room’s size, so performers’ music fills the space without distortion (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Folk note: there’s always a quieter corner near the back by the pool table if you want some peace – otherwise expect a bustling, cheerful crowd close around the band. After 7 pm on Fridays/Saturdays the bar typically fills up, so arriving early not only gets you better viewing spots but also a choice seat at a table for dinner before things get crowded (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
Getting There and Parking
The Welsh Dragon Bar is located at **10A Cambridge Terrace, Mount Victoria, Wellington 6011** (scoop.com.au ), on the corner of Cambridge and Kent Terraces (just uphill from Courtenay Place). It’s about a 15-minute walk from the central Lambton Quay district. If you drive, street parking is very limited. There are only about a dozen metered spots on Cambridge Terrace near the bar (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). On weekdays the meters charge roughly NZ$5 per hour (max 2-hour stay) (www.parkopedia.co.nz ), and on weekends about NZ$3 per hour (max 3 hours) (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). For longer parking, look for a paid car park further down Courtney Place or on Tory Street (both ~5–10 min walk). Rideshares or taxis can drop you off directly in front (Cambridge/Kent corner).
Public transit is very convenient: bus routes along Kent and nearby Willis/Cambridge serve the area. Several city buses stop just a block or two away (for example, the main route along Willis Street has stops at the top of Cambridge Terrace). According to travel guides, the venue is “easy to reach by public transport or on foot” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Wellington’s main train station (at Lambton Quay) is about 15–20 minutes’ walk, or a short quick bus ride north. Late-night transport is available: town buses run until late evening, and plenty of rideshare/taxi options are nearby for after-show trips home. (Note: if you plan to use public buses at night, check the current Metlink routes; there are often night buses on main lines.)
Inside the Venue
Stepping inside, you’ll find a warm, bustling pub atmosphere. No special entry procedures – just walk in the main door. The friendly pub staff (often wearing Wales jerseys) will welcome you; many return visitors comment on how genuinely friendly and accommodating they are (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). The room is lit with a warm glow from wall sconces and spotlights on the stage. Polish your own glass at the central bar if it’s crowded, or grab a bench/table if you prefer. Food service is at the bar too: during gigs the kitchen cooks classic pub meals (see more below). Coats or bags are usually managed under your table or on wall hooks – there’s no formal cloak check, but space is tight so it’s a good idea not to bring large luggage.
There is a small merchandise stand sometimes (e.g. rugby scarves or local crafts), especially during special events, but it’s limited. The venue maintains New Zealand’s indoor smoking laws (no smoking inside). If permitted, patrons may step outside to smoke (the front door area or street). Free Wi-Fi is generally *not* advertised; most NZ pubs don’t provide it, so assume no public Wi-Fi and use mobile data. The bar itself serves an impressive selection of drinks. On tap you’ll often find local Wellington craft beers alongside imported ales (including Brains and Wrexham lagers from Wales) (nation.cymru ). A wide range of Penderyn Welsh whiskies and Welsh gins are stocked behind the bar (nation.cymru ). In addition to beer and spirits, the bar’s fridge has ciders and wines, and bartenders can mix cocktails on request. Throughout the night, drink specials or happy-hour deals may apply (ask the staff when you arrive). For food, pub classics like fish and chips, bangers and mashed, and pies are available all evening (scoop.com.au ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). On Sundays they serve a full roast dinner (including vegetarian options) that customers rave about (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Menus are posted on the wall or on tabletop cards. Keep in mind that events often feature themed menus or special food (e.g. Christmas dinners in July), so look for chalkboard notices near the bar.
Restrooms are at the rear of the bar. If you have any accessibility needs, the ground-floor layout is flat and wheelchair-friendly (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Staff and regulars are known to be very welcoming, so if you have any questions during your visit – about seating, the show schedule, or the food – don’t hesitate to ask a bartender or server.
Nearby Amenities
The Welsh Dragon Bar sits in a lively part of Mt Victoria, so there are plenty of nearby places to enhance your evening. For pre-show meals, the **Cambridge Hotel Brewery** (just up the street at 28 Cambridge Terrace (www.tripadvisor.ca )) offers gastropub fare and its own craft brew. Also on Cambridge Terrace and Kent Terrace are a variety of restaurants and bars – from pizza and Thai to upscale fusion – where you can grab dinner or a drink before coming over. If you want coffee or breakfast after a late show, note that Mt Vic has a few cafes and bakeries (a popular one is on Lambton Quay two stops away by bus).
Several hotels are within walking distance. The Rendezvous Hotel and Ibis are in downtown (15–20 min walk downhill), and the scenic boutique Cuckoo‘s Nest and Jam are closer on Cotton/Sydenham. Taxis and rideshares from these nearby hotels can drop you off right at the bar entrance. When leaving late, Wellington’s central location means buses run frequently, rideshares are plentiful, and even the late NiteRider buses (on major routes) can get you back toward the suburbs. If flying in, Wellington Airport is about 20 min away by cab.
For any last-minute needs: there’s a small dairy/bottleshop a block away on Tory Street, and convenience stores up the hill. The area is quite safe at night with lots of late-night pedestrians. Overall, The Welsh Dragon Bar is well-integrated into the city’s entertainment district: you can easily combine a night there with shows, clubs or attractions in nearby Courtenay Place and Cuba Street.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Welsh Dragon Bar is beloved for its unique character and cultural significance. It isn’t just another pub – it’s a slice of Wales in Wellington. The owners, George “Andrew” Jones and manager Hannah Williams (both from Wales), have created a place that proudly celebrates Welsh heritage down under (nation.cymru ) (nation.cymru ). With a legendary collection of Welsh sports memorabilia lining the walls, every Wales rugby or football fan feels at home here. The bar’s annual “Christmas in July/June” (midwinter Christmas) parties have become almost as famous as its nightly events (nation.cymru ) (nation.cymru ). It’s been featured in Welsh media and even visited by national teams, cementing its status as a cultural hub.
Architecturally it has a classic pub vibe, enhanced by playful design details: dragons carved or painted around the room, Welsh language signage, and even themed menu touches. Long-time patrons love the “Welsh welcome” – the warm, inclusive hospitality that the staff and community provide (nation.cymru ) (nation.cymru ). Musicians also love the place: the intimate size means performers are right next to the audience, fostering a special crowd connection. This venue’s cultural impact exceeds its walls: by promoting Welsh products (like Penderyn whisky and Wrexham Lager) and providing a home base for expats, it underlines Wellington’s diverse community. Every year it draws crowds not just for the music but for the authentic vibe – think loyal locals toasting along to traditional tunes, foreign students practicing Welsh at the bar, and random guitar singalongs at closing time.
In short, The Welsh Dragon Bar matters because it’s one-of-a-kind. It’s part pub, part mini-museum, and part community centre. Whether it’s an impromptu choir on staging (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) or the anecdote of finding rare rugby memorabilia for a new display (nation.cymru ), the place brims with stories. It’s the only spot where Kiwi, Welsh and curious travellers mingle under the red dragon banner, making every visit an event itself.
Visitor Tips and Information
Arrival and peak times: Weekend nights (especially Friday/Saturday) can get very crowded after 7pm. If you want a good seat or a casual table, come early. Doors open around 5pm on weekdays and as early as 3–4pm on weekends (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (evendo.com ). Midweek quiz or comedy nights tend to start around 7–8pm. If you’re attending a special party (like the mid-winter Christmas event), book or sign up when tickets are announced.
Accessibility: The bar is wheelchair-accessible at the front entrance (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). All the main spaces are on one level, though the space is somewhat tight. If you need assistance, staff are very accommodating – just mention any needs when you arrive.
Bring/not bring: Bring your ID if you look under 25 – it’s an 18+ venue (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). There’s no strict dress code beyond smart-casual; patrons often wear jeans, jerseys or even rugby shirts. Don’t bring outside alcohol or large bags (no outside drinks allowed, and bag checks are standard at licensed venues). Cameras and phones are fine for casual pics, but professional recording of acts requires permission.
Food & drink: The bar serves full meals and snacks throughout the evening, so you don’t need to eat beforehand unless you want a specific restaurant experience. Portion sizes are generous pub style – the signature Sunday roast or steak are local favorites (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). A common tip is to save appetite for dessert: their homemade pudding or trifle have a few fans. Drink-wise, try a Welsh beer or whiskey recommendation from the bar staff – they’re quite knowledgeable. If you’re not letting someone drive, there are plenty of local craft beers and non-alcoholic ciders available.
Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t underestimate travel time if coming from far away in rush hour. Public transport after 11pm can be limited, so plan a taxi or rideshare especially on weekdays. Avoid showing up too late in the night (after midnight) expecting a full menu – the kitchen usually stops service well before closing. Lastly, this is a social venue: one patron tip was to be ready to join in the fun and chat with new friends. Namely, make eye contact, smile, and you’ll quickly get drawn into the community spirit.
Eligibility and rules: It’s a strict 18+ venue (no children allowed at any time) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Wellington’s no-smoking laws apply indoors (smoking is only permitted right outside). The pub has a zero reference to cultural sensitivities – it’s proudly Welsh-friendly, so feel free to celebrate a Welsh flag or share a friendly “Hwyl!” (a Welsh greeting) with the staff.
Insider tips: The manager Hannah and co-owner Andrew are big supporters of Welsh culture – they often announce special tastings or product launches (for example, the limited-edition $9.76 “Cost of Living Burger” fundraiser in 2022 (nation.cymru )). If you visit in August, ask about their burger. Beer lovers should try early-week offers, as the bar sometimes has discounted pints on quieter nights. For music fans, keep an eye on the last-Wednesday jazz series (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Finally, don’t miss the chance to take a selfie with the Welsh décor – it’s as much part of the experience as the beer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of The Welsh Dragon Bar?
The Welsh Dragon Bar is located at 10A Cambridge Terrace, Mount Victoria, Wellington 6011 (scoop.com.au ). This is on the corner of Cambridge and Kent Terraces, just uphill from Courtenay Place in Wellington’s city centre.
What are the opening hours of The Welsh Dragon Bar?
Typically the bar opens in the late afternoon and closes around 3 am. For example, recent published hours show it opens at 5 pm on Monday and Tuesday, 4 pm (Wednesday–Saturday), and 3 pm on Sundays (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (evendo.com ). Hours may vary for special events or by season, so it’s best to check their current schedule if you plan to arrive very early.
Is The Welsh Dragon Bar wheelchair accessible?
Yes, The Welsh Dragon Bar is wheelchair accessible from the street entrance (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). The main bar area and performance space are on the same level, with no steps. (Do note that the venue is small and can be crowded on busy nights.)
What is the capacity of The Welsh Dragon Bar?
The venue is quite intimate. One review notes that the back "function area" can accommodate about 20–70 guests (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). This suggests the total capacity is on that order (roughly 70–80 people). It’s not a large hall by any means, but this cozy size contributes to its close-knit atmosphere during shows.
What is the minimum age policy at The Welsh Dragon Bar?
The Welsh Dragon Bar is an 18+ (adult only) venue. It is listed as suitable for adults (www.eventfinda.co.nz ), and staff generally enforce NZ liquor laws. You will need to be 18 or older and carry valid ID to enter, especially after 8:00 pm.
Do I need to buy event tickets in advance, and where can I find them?
Most nights at the Welsh Dragon Bar do not require pre-purchased tickets – many events (like the weekly jazz nights) are free (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). If a concert or special event does have a cover charge, tickets are usually sold online (via Eventfinda or Ticketing websites) or at the door. The bar itself does not have a separate box-office; it’s often easiest to arrive early if a show is popular. Checking the venue’s social media or event pages will indicate if tickets need to be booked in advance.
Is there parking available near The Welsh Dragon Bar?
Street parking is very limited. There are about 12 metered spaces on Cambridge Terrace next to the bar (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). These meters charge around NZ$5 per hour on weekdays (with a 2-hour maximum) and about NZ$3 per hour on weekends (3-hour max) (www.parkopedia.co.nz ) (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). After those spots fill, the nearest longer-term car parks are farther away on Tory Street or Courtenay Place. Many visitors arrive by bus, taxi or rideshare to avoid parking hassle.
Which public transport goes to The Welsh Dragon Bar?
The bar is easy to reach by city bus. Multiple routes run along Kent Terrace and Willis Street, just a block from the venue. Buses heading to Courtenay Place or the hospital will stop within a couple of minutes’ walk (www.ticketfairy.com ). Wellington’s central train station (Te Papa) is also only a 15–20 minute walk away. In general, any city bus passing near Courtenay Place or Kent/Cambridge Terrace will get you close to the Welsh Dragon Bar (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Can I make reservations or buy tickets online for events?
The Welsh Dragon Bar operates like a pub rather than a theatre. There is no standard reservation system for general entry. For private hire or functions, you would need to contact the venue in advance. For regular live events, tickets (when required) are generally sold through event pages or at the door. If you want to guarantee entry to a big event, the best approach is to either buy tickets from the advertised seller (e.g. Eventfinda) or arrive early. Walk-ins are usually welcome for un-ticketed nights.
What kind of seating is available and where is the stage?
Seating at The Welsh Dragon Bar is informal and mostly first-come. There are a few tables and stools around the bar area, but many people stand near the stage to watch performances. The stage is at one end of the room, so for the closest view you’ll want to stand or sit in front of it. The “function area” at the back can be used for tables or standing as well. There are no assigned seats – on busy nights the best spots go quickly. For a relaxed meal, try to snag a table early; otherwise mingling by the bar side is common. Acoustically, the small layout means you can hear conversations easily, but if you want a quiet break, there’s usually a corner by the pool table that’s a bit away from the main action.
What food and drink options are served at The Welsh Dragon Bar?
The menu centres on hearty British pub fare. Expect classics like fish & chips, bangers and mash, steak, and shepherd’s pie (scoop.com.au ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). A notable specialty is the Sunday roast dinner (with all the trimmings), which many customers praise (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). For beverages, the bar offers local craft beers and ciders alongside imported Welsh brands: Brains and Wrexham lagers on tap and a selection of Penderyn whiskies and Welsh gins (nation.cymru ). The staff can also mix basic cocktails or serve wine and spirits. Vegetarian and vegan options are available (the Sunday roast can be made vegetarian). Ask the bartender for any day’s specials or meals of the day. There is no cover charge for dining though on event nights customers often just order a round of drinks.
Does The Welsh Dragon Bar hold any special annual events?
Yes. By tradition, The Welsh Dragon Bar throws a Christmas party in the middle of the year. It’s famous for its “Christmas in July/June” dinners and decorations, celebrating mid-winter in true Welsh style (nation.cymru ) (nation.cymru ). These are ticketed special events with roast turkey dinners, games, and even Santa visits. Other themed nights (for example, St David’s Day in March or special sports viewings) also occur occasionally. Additionally, the bar rolled out a notable “Cost of Living Burger” special in August 2022 – a budget burger sold at-cost to raise money for charity (nation.cymru ). Otherwise, nightly events (music, comedy, quiz) occur year-round.
Who owns and runs The Welsh Dragon Bar?
The Welsh Dragon Bar is owned and operated by Welsh expats. The general manager is Hannah Williams (from Wrexham) and the co-owner is Andrew Jones (from Tonyrefail) (nation.cymru ) (nation.cymru ). There are also other Welsh partners involved. Hannah and Andrew are often behind the bar or organizing events themselves, which helps the venue maintain its genuine Welsh character.
What is the "Cost of Living Burger" at The Welsh Dragon Bar?
The "Cost of Living Burger" was a special affordable burger introduced in 2022 (August) to highlight the rising costs of living. It is a beef burger with Welsh rarebit sauce on brioche, sold at exactly its making cost (NZ$9.76) with no profit margin (nation.cymru ). The bar invited customers to add a voluntary donation on top, which went to charity. This unique promotion received media attention as a way the bar supported the community during tough economic times.
Are pets allowed at The Welsh Dragon Bar?
No. Under New Zealand liquor laws, animals are not permitted inside licensed bars. (Guide dogs are an exception.) Only service animals may accompany you. Pets should be left outside in your care if you come for a show or meal.
