The Picaroons Roundhouse

Imagine a place where industrial heritage meets modern comfort and hospitality. The Roundhouse (Picaroons Roundhouse) is not just a bar or brewery, but an iconic public space in the city of Fredericton. Located in a beautifully restored 1885 railway roundhouse, it has become the true heart of the city's Northside.

This unique destination in Canada draws visitors with its authentic atmosphere: massive wooden beams, brick walls, and large windows overlooking the majestic Saint John River. A craft brewery, restaurant, and coffee shop harmoniously share the space, creating the perfect environment for relaxation at any time of day.

Thanks to its location right along the walking trail, the Roundhouse has become a favorite stop for walkers and cyclists. High ratings and reviews emphasize that this is a "third place"—a community hub where you can experience the true local spirit in a casual and friendly setting.

To contact the establishment or inquire about event details, use the contact information provided below. The Roundhouse is open to communication and always welcomes guests.

There is something for everyone at the Roundhouse. The main draw for enthusiasts is, of course, a craft beer tasting from Picaroons. A wide selection is always on tap, ranging from light golden ales to heavy, rich stouts. If you’re hungry, be sure to visit the 540 North restaurant located inside. The menu focuses on high-quality fast-casual fare using local ingredients: try their famous fish and chips, juicy burgers, or signature fish tacos.

For those who prefer an active start to the day, the Grain & Grind coffee shop is open. From early morning, they serve freshly brewed coffee and fragrant pastries, making it a great starting point for a walk along the waterfront. On sunny days, it's worth snagging a table on the spacious outdoor terrace. The venue is famously dog-friendly—water bowls and a warm welcome are always ready for your four-legged friends.

Souvenir hunters can browse the Brewtique shop, which sells branded merchandise and bottled beverages to take home. In the evenings, the space often hosts live music, trivia nights, or sports broadcasts, creating a unique atmosphere of celebration and community.

The Roundhouse is located at 912 Union St, on the north bank of the Saint John River. One of the most scenic ways to get here is by crossing the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge. A walk or bike ride across this bridge leads you directly to the Northside trail head, offering an excellent view of the historic brick building.

For those who prefer to drive, free parking is available on the street and directly adjacent to the establishment. Keep in mind that during peak hours and weekends, spaces can fill up quickly due to the location's popularity with locals.

If you are using public transit, Fredericton bus routes provide convenient access to the city's Northside. You can also use taxi or ridesharing services, which can whisk you from the city center in just a few minutes.

The history of this remarkable building began in 1885. It was constructed by B. Mooney & Sons using bricks from the famous factory of "Boss" Gibson. Originally, the facility served as a railway roundhouse, and today it is recognized as an important provincial historic site in New Brunswick.

For a long time, the building was used for various purposes, including an auto repair shop, but eventually fell into disrepair and stood vacant. The turning point came in 2016 when the well-known local brewery Picaroons Traditional Ales purchased the property from the city for a symbolic $100. The goal was not just to expand the business, but to carefully restore the architectural heritage.

During the reconstruction, the industrial charm of the building was preserved, transforming the old depot into a modern "third place"—a space between home and work where people can gather and socialize. The brewery established here continues traditions dating back to 1995, using open-fermentation methods.

An interesting exterior detail is the "Picaroons Stump" sculpture by local artist Chuck Clark. This art piece has become a symbol of community and continuity, harmoniously complementing the atmosphere of this historic site in Canada.

To fully soak in the atmosphere of the Roundhouse, guests are recommended to set aside 2 to 3 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely browse the local beer selection, enjoy a meal made with regional ingredients, and simply relax on the terrace while watching the river flow by.

If you only plan to stop in for a morning coffee at Grain & Grind or pick up some drinks to go at the Brewtique shop, 30–45 minutes will suffice. However, many visitors find that once they settle into the cozy brick interior with its long communal tables, it can be very difficult to leave.

The establishment is open daily, offering different experiences depending on the time of day. The main bar and restaurant open around noon, while the coffee shop inside the building welcomes visitors from early morning.

Official Opening Hours:
Monday — Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday — Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

It is worth noting that the Grain & Grind coffee shop operates daily from 07:00 AM to 03:00 PM. During the winter season or holidays, kitchen hours may vary slightly, so it is recommended to check the last call for food orders before visiting late in the evening.

A visit to the Roundhouse can easily be combined with exploring other local points of interest. The area around Union St is rich in historical monuments and picturesque spots for a stroll.