An iconic pub with a tangible history dating back to 1875 and a heap of memorabilia on the walls, Lion's Den is a must-stop. You'll find fuel, ice-cold beer, strong coffee, awesome pizzas, pub meals and often live music. Spend a night if you can, camping or in one of the pole-tent cabins. Don't miss a swim in the flowing croc-free creek.
Lion's Den Hotel
Top choice in Cairns & Far North Queensland
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
18.1 MILES
Local Indigenous artists representing the Yalanji, Nyungkul and Jalunji clans produce highly-regarded paintings, jewellery and screen-printed clothing for…
16.49 MILES
Cooktown’s finest building (an 1899 convent), this National Trust museum houses well-preserved relics including journal entries, the cannon and anchor…
17.07 MILES
Captain Cook climbed this 162m-high hill looking for a passage through the reefs. The 360-degree views of the town, river and ocean are wonderful,…
16.38 MILES
The 62-hectare botanical gardens contain a large number of plant species, including the Cooktown orchid. Marked walking trails lead to the beaches at…
16.36 MILES
At the entrance to Cooktown Botanic Gardens, the town visitor centre is home to an inviting cafe (9.30am to 2pm) with outdoor deck and the Vera Scarth…
Keatings Lagoon Conservation Park
13.78 MILES
About 5km south of Cooktown, this 47-hectare wetland is a favourite among birdwatchers and walkers. The waterlily-filled lagoon is home to thousands of…
16.84 MILES
This waterfront park is home to a much-photographed bronze Captain Cook statue, the kid-friendly musical ship and nearby Milbi Wall – a snakelike mosaic…
13.83 MILES
Drop into this very pleasant home-based gallery and cafe 5km north of Ayton for a cup of coffee or tea and to view the works of wildlife artist Ross…
Nearby Cairns & Far North Queensland attractions
1. Keatings Lagoon Conservation Park
13.78 MILES
About 5km south of Cooktown, this 47-hectare wetland is a favourite among birdwatchers and walkers. The waterlily-filled lagoon is home to thousands of…
13.83 MILES
Drop into this very pleasant home-based gallery and cafe 5km north of Ayton for a cup of coffee or tea and to view the works of wildlife artist Ross…
16.36 MILES
At the entrance to Cooktown Botanic Gardens, the town visitor centre is home to an inviting cafe (9.30am to 2pm) with outdoor deck and the Vera Scarth…
16.38 MILES
The 62-hectare botanical gardens contain a large number of plant species, including the Cooktown orchid. Marked walking trails lead to the beaches at…
16.49 MILES
Cooktown’s finest building (an 1899 convent), this National Trust museum houses well-preserved relics including journal entries, the cannon and anchor…
16.66 MILES
Everything you ever wanted to know about Cooktown's history, run by the local historical society volunteers.
16.77 MILES
Cooktown and the surrounding area has a strong tradition of Indigenous art. This main street gallery represents the Yuku Baja Muliku people, with all…
16.82 MILES
The local weekly market features local crafts including woodwork and jewellery, and food stalls.