The Parkside Hotel, located on Glen Osmond Road in Parkside, South Australia, has a rich and storied history dating back to 1858 when it was originally built as The Fountain Inn. Its name was derived from the permanent spring over which it was constructed, providing essential fresh water to the area. 

The hotel played an important role in the early development of Parkside and, much like many other hotels of the time, often acted as a de facto coronial court. In September 1900, for instance, an inquest into a tragic accident was held at the hotel. 

The Fountain Inn also became a hub for recreation, with the addition of a billiard saloon in 1914, and political gatherings, such as a 1888 meeting addressed by Mr. G.W. Cotton for the Legislative Council. 

Among the colourful figures who passed through the pub’s doors was Tom Foreman, a former policeman and gold prospector, who took over the license in the early 1920s after a varied career across South Australia. 

After renovations in 2018, the pub is now known as the Parkside Hotel.  Located just minutes outside the Adelaide CBD and at the gateway to the Adelaide Hills wine and produce region, the Parkside Hotel continues to offer great food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. 

Image: © Ronald Praite 1970 | State Library of South Australia