Harlow, on the corner of Church and Lesney Streets in Richmond, is a contemporary bar in an historic setting. 

For many years it was home to the Great Britain Hotel, which was a true icon of Richmond and part of the fabric of inner Melbourne for more than 150 years. 

From a rate book from 1864, we learn the hotel dates to 1851 when David Edward McNeill obtained a licence for the hotel. 

The Great Britain Hotel was a legendary Richmond gathering place for the community. 

We gain a flavour of the hotel from an undated photo of four young boys sitting on the horse trough on the street, likely taken in the late 1800s. 

In later years the Great Britain Hotel was a keen supporter of live Melbourne music for decades.  

From being one of the first Melbourne establishments to champion craft beer, to hosting experimental and avant-garde techno nights in its basement, the GB attracted a crowd that was as edgy and eclectic as it was welcoming. 

The hotel was re-named and refurbished as Harlow Bar in 2018. This change marked a new chapter for the venue, introducing a refreshed concept while retaining its status as a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors. 

Today, Harlow’s beer garden has bleacher-style terraced seating and enough room for 250 punters. The bottom of the garden leads to a snug basement bar; a quiet, compact area for late-night cocktails. 

Harlow boasts a ground floor bar and dining space, a sprawling split-level beer garden and a neon-drenched basement bar, as well as a roof top bar with city views and plenty of seats.   

Our flavour-packed menu is designed to enjoy with only one hand, so the other is free to hold your favourite drink. Parmas, burgers and plenty of trendy current dishes that cycle seasonally.  

We offer relaxed lunches during the week, after work drinks into the evening before rolling into the party and action-packed weekends.

We’re also the ultimate location for pre- or post-drinks when attending the footy at the MCG! 

Come in soon and say hello.