Victoria Free House

Restaurants key icon.
Restaurants key icon.

Monday12:00 – 10:30 pm.

Tuesday12:00 – 10:30 pm.

Wednesday12:00 – 10:30 pm.

Thursday12:00 – 10:30 pm.

Friday12:00 – 11:00 pm.

Saturday12:00 – 11:00 pm.

Sunday12:00 – 10:30 pm.

Mutual Fund House 779 Colombo St, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch

021 225 3537

A British-style pub, Victoria Free House is a slice of the old world in the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch. In true form of the classic bar service model, expect to be well looked after by warm, friendly service at this establishment. The atmosphere here is relaxed yet sophisticated; it’s a kind of inner city-meets-countryside feel. 

Housed within a heritage building dating back to the 1920s, Victoria Free House has a distinct historical feel; as if it has always existed in this location. The intimate dark interiors are complimented by large windows that allow for natural light to pour in during the day, as well as for pub-goers to take in the stunning park views across to neighbouring Victoria Square. The tram chugs by every now again too, adding to those historical vibes.

Naturally, beer in all its forms is at the heart of it all here. Twenty taps run with a variety of local and imported brews. There are English-style hand-pulled ales, a selection of Aotearoa’s top brews and, of course, one of the most iconic beers in the world, Guinness. To complement the beers, an extensive wine and gin list adds interest to those who prefer something else to sip.

A full lunch and dinner menu co-created with well-known Christchurch chef Shafeeq Ismail offers British classics done well, such as smoked fish pie, steak tartare, or wagyu steak and chips. The pub’s Sunday roast is also a point of pride and offers excellent value for your dollar. 

This is a family-friendly pub that offers a sense of nostalgia and authentic pub culture within the inner city.

Words by Petra Nyman & Photography by Jerome Warburton

Information not correct? Report an error

Location

Mutual Fund House 779 Colombo St, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch

Nearby Places

Rollickin' Gelato Cashel Street

Double scoop gelato on a cone in front of an orange wall.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Cafes key icon. Goods key icon.

Rollickin' Gelato brings a fabulous late-night dessert venue to the riverside end of Cashel St.

CoCA

Exterior of CoCA.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Galleries and museum key icon.

CoCA is a slick and ultra-modern art gallery space in the centre of Christchurch.

Naveya & Sloane Jewellery

Wide shot of jewellery showroom with cabinet full of jewellery and a shop assistant behind at Naveya & Sloane Jewellery.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Fashion key icon.

Naveya & Sloane is a jewellery house born and bred in New Zealand, and in mid-2025, they opened their Christchurch showroom on Oxford Terrace.

Recycle Boutique Christchurch

Staff picks rack.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Fashion key icon.

Recycle Boutique challenges the status quo as one part designer boutique, one part second hand shop and one part sustainable shopping option.

Similar Places

Mumma Bear

Exterior of Mumma Bear's retail space.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury

In a quiet block of neighbourhood shops in Christchurch’s seaside suburb of Mt Pleasant, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find Mumma Bear’s retail space...

Gatherings

Art on the wall at Gatherings in Christchurch.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury Editor's Pick
Restaurants key icon.

Living in harmony with the seasons has many benefits, and dining at Gatherings is undoubtedly one of them.

Bellbird Bakery – Riverside Market

A cafe counter inside a large indoor market.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Cafes key icon.

Bellbird Bakery isn’t a new name for Ōtautahi households.

Pegasus Bay

A flatlay of cheese and spreads in a basket.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury

Pegasus Bay will blow you away with its beautiful setting and world-class wine.