Royal Hotel - Denman, New South Wales

Originally named Merton, Denman is located in the N.S.W. Upper Hunter Valley on the Hunter River. We didn't have Denman on our planned travel itinerary, but then our itinerary often changes, funny how that happens. We stayed behind the pub - The Royal Hotel - in the patrons car park. There is a large area specifically for caravans and another large paddock area behind it.

We had travelled 90 mins. from Maitland, about 110km away, and arrived early afternoon. There were a couple of vans already set up so we chose a site next to the road, which was very quiet.

Just as well we got there early as many more vans came in later that afternoon and evening. There are 11 designated level caravan/motor home sites, and an additional large paddock for tents and overflow vans.  

It was actually a lot better than some caravan parks. There were toilets, showers and drinking water available. It is a 72 hour limit, and three days is enough to explore the town of Denman - and one doesn't need to unhitch.

We had a walk around the pub and had dinner which was great, and very reasonable prices. We went to early dinner, about 5.30pm, before the rush.

The food was really good, and large servings too. The pub also has a take-away service.

We even had enough leftovers to have lunch the next day. A plaque on the hotel says it was built in 1910. 

However, depending on what one reads the dates vary between 1913 and 1917. 

What is known is the hotel is on land that a grand house built by George Augustus Frederick Kibble in the 1860's was on (I'm not sure if the hotel is the same house); and it was the only building on this side of the street not to burn in the 1928 fire - more about that next blog. There is a sign in the footpath outside the pub with 'Kelvin Grove' written on it. That was the name given to Kibble's grand home.

The hotel staff were friendly and helpful - always good when travelling - and as I said the food was great. There is indoor and outdoor covered eating and drinking areas, with an open fire inside and even a jumping castle outside.

We will definitely be coming back.