SINCE THE EARLY 1990’s, there’s been a pub on this corner pouring cold beers and serving up good yarns. What began as the South Casino Hotel has evolved through fire, folklore, and a fair bit of local legend into what we now call the Charcoal Inn.
old soul. new shine. same welcome.
The Charcoal Inn has been part of Casino’s story for over a century, and after a fresh renovation, we’re ready for the next chapter. We’ve modernised the space – but kept the warmth, the stories, and the charm. Whether you’re chasing a quiet drink, a great meal, or just a familiar spot to unwind, you’ll find it here.
south casino hotel, 1939
Before it became the Charcoal Inn, the pub was known as the South Casino Hotel – run by the Dougherty family, who had owned it for over a decade. In the late 1930s, it stood as a classic country pub, a social hub for locals and travelling workers alike.
the charcoal inn, 1949
In 1941, a devastating fire tore through the upper floor of the hotel, but the bar below survived – and so did the beer. Soldiers stationed nearby jokingly dubbed it “The Charcoal Inn,” a name that stuck. By 1945, it was made official, despite the Licensing Court’s raised eyebrow.
the charcoal inn, 1955
After years of serving under a fire-scarred roof, the pub was finally rebuilt from the ground up in 1955. The new Charcoal Inn emerged stronger and more stylish – modern for its time, but still steeped in local character.
In Casino town, by Richmond’s flowing tide,
Divided by the river, stands, a town with pride.
On the Southern bank, a pub once stood tall,
The Lion Hotel it was, beloved by all.
In ’41, flames engulfed its very core,
Reduced to ash, memories of yore.
But from the embers, a phoenix arose,
Rebuilt as the Charcoal, where laughter flows.
Renamed and reborn, its spirit alive,
A beacon of hope where memories thrive.
The Charcoal Inn, with its savory fare,
A place for friends to gather and share.
Amidst the mirth and clinking of beer,
Echoes of the past, whispers we hear.
Stories of old, woven in the air,
In the heart of Casino, a gem so rare.
So here’s to the Charcoal, standing strong,
In Casino’s tapestry, where it belongs.
A place of warmth, where friendships mend,
The Charcoal Inn, a beloved friend.
