In this episode we’re joined by Scott Southam — storyteller, tour guide, and Sydney local legend behind I’m Free Walking Tours. Recorded inside The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel, Australia’s oldest continuously operating brewpub, Scott and Dave pull up a pint to talk history and the hidden stories of The Rocks.

With pints in hand, they dive into:

• The Oldest Pub Debate – Lord Nelson vs Fortune of War: who really holds the crown?
• Ghosts & Press Gangs – The dark, hilarious legend of the Hero of Waterloo.
• Tour Tales – From COVID lockdowns to global travellers discovering ibis and schnitties.
• Sydney Secrets – Hidden spots, underrated parks, and the Opera House myths tourists can’t stop asking about.
• Last Drinks – Schnitty vs Parmy, best day for a beer, and the mates he’d most love to have a pint with.

Whether you’re a history buff, a pub lover, or just keen for a laugh over a pint, this one’s a walk worth taking.

🍺 Tapped In: Venues & Beers Mentioned

• The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel – Oldest brewpub in Australia, famous for its Three Sheets Pale Ale  @lordnelsonbrewery
  
  
• Hero of Waterloo – Historic pub with sandstone cellars and ghost tales  @heroofthewaterloo
  
  
• Fortune of War – Oldest licensed pub in Sydney (1828)  @fortuneofwarsydney
  
  
• The Australian Heritage Hotel – Home of the iconic Coat of Arms pizza (half kangaroo, half emu) 🇦🇺 @australianheritagehotel
  
  
• Blue Gum Hotel (Waitara) – A north shore favourite for steaks and schooners  @bluegumhotel
  
  

(Chapters are Auto-Generated)

00:00
Welcome to the Lord Nelson

03:00
The Free Walking Tour Experience

05:21
Exploring Sydney's Historical Pubs

08:11
The Rocks: A Unique Neighborhood

11:00
Tourist Demographics and Experiences

13:38
Ghost Stories and Legends of the Pubs

16:47
The Evolution of Pubs in Sydney

19:32
Common Questions on Tours

22:35
Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights

Recorded at: The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel
– The Rocks, Sydney
Guest: Scott Southam – I’m Free Tours

Proudly supported by: Oasis Brewing
– @oasisbrewingofficial

Episode produced by: WHEN Studios
Follow: @WHEN.Studios,

Insta: @chatontap

Email: [email protected]

Host: David A. Lennon – @davidalennon
Website: chatontap.com