Gledswood Homestead and Winery, Sgt Reid’s crowned the Best Bar in Macarthur

A quirky bar built into one of the oldest properties in Macarthur and named after a “rum-loving First Mate” from England has been crowned the best in the area.

A quirky bar born out of the Covid-19 pandemic has won the hearts of locals in just over a year and been crowned the best bar in Macarthur.

Sgt Reid’s at the Gledswood Homestead and Winery has been named Macarthur’s best bar by readers in the latest edition of the Delicious Local Competition.

The unique bar was rebranded during the pandemic last year after the Gledswood Homestead and Winery was forced to push back weddings and special events, which is the main business of the historic venue.

Sgt Reid’s at the Gledswood Homestead and Winery has been named Macarthur’s best bar.

Managing director Nadene Clarke told the Macarthur Chronicle the cellar door bar was born in a bid to keep casual staff working and to bring a “chilled vibe” to locals looking for a quiet drink on a Friday night.

“We also looked at where we were located and there’s a huge amount of residents coming into the surrounding area,” Ms Clarke said.

“We provided our customers what it is we would want if we went out for drinks.”

Ms Clarke described the venue as a “quiet, chilled out bar” where people can go for a chat with friends.”

The bar was rebranded during the pandemic last year after the Gledswood Homestead and Winery was forced to push back weddings and special events.

Throughout the early stages of the pandemic, Ms Clarke noticed the support from the community had been amazing and was willing to give back.

“At the moment, it’s a bit stop and start because of Covid, but it’s our little passion project,” she said.

Ms Clarke said she was blown away after being crowned the best bar in the region, especially during a lockdown where hospitality venues can only operate on takeaway.

“Obviously it’s well received and it shows when you get this kind of response,” she said.

The historic venue is a favourite for Macarthur locals.

“It’s a quirky little building with nothing like it around.”

“With all the crap that’s going on at the moment it’s nice to hear a good news story.”

Sgt Reid is part of Gledswood’s history, with the “rum-loving First Mate” arriving on the shores of Botany Bay on-board H. M. S Borrowdale.

The Gledswood Homestead and Winery was the first property in the colony, in the 1800s, to be granted a liquor license with permission to produce rum, with First Mate Reid joining the NSW Corps.

“We've renamed our favourite place on the property in honour of the great man,” the website reads.