Top 10 Attractions in Historic Bathurst
As Australia’s oldest inland European settlement founded in 1815, Bathurst is rich in history, and today is a vibrant regional city. Set on the banks of the Macquarie-Wambuul River, Bathurst and surrounds offers a wide range of places to discover: from heritage architecture, museums, award-winning distilleries and breweries, and quaint historic townships. Here are our top 10 things to see and do in the Bathurst region.
The heritage heart of Bathurst for over two centuries, spend time wandering the Town Square and its historic laneways while listening to a free audio tour, narrated by Bathurst local Grant Denyer. Simply download the ‘Step Beyond’ app: https://www.bathurstregion.com.au/bathurst-region-villages/bathurst-step-beyond-app/. Admire striking Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco architecture, and allow time to explore Machattie Park with its stunning gardens, fernery, and ornate band rotunda.
2. Bathurst Museums
Housed in an 1876 Gothic-style former public school building, within the Bathurst Town Square precinct, is the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum. Recently voted one of NSW’s four top museums, it’s home to the renowned Somerville Collection, featuring some of the finest and rarest specimens of mineral crystals and fossils from around the world - including a T.rex skeleton.
The Bathurst Rail Museum, in the historic Railway Institute building, holds a valuable social history. Discover the recollections and stories of local people connected to the Railways, past and present, along with interesting artefacts and a dedicated kids’ space.
And set in a quiet residential street, you’ll find Chifley House, the former home of Prime Minister Ben Chifley and his wife Elizabeth during the Great Depression. This unique museum provides a glimpse into life in the 1940s, with an original collection of furnishings, kitchenware and personal items dating to 1914.
3. The Bathurst Grange Distillery
Now over 200 years old, The Grange homestead dates to 1823 and is of State significance as one of the earliest surviving colonial farmhouses built in inland Australia. For a small fee, book a tour of the property, gardens and farmland - as well as learning about the craft of distillation, plus small batch whisky and gin tastings. Enjoy a local cheese platter from the tasting menu in The Grange’s tasting room, overlooking picturesque country views.
4. Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail
During the weekend of 16-17 March 2024, rediscover traditional craftsmanship, with over 100 artisans and hands-on workshops, demonstrations and activities. Rare and lost trades on display include blacksmithing, saddlery, dry stone walling, whip cracking and making, glass artistry, lace making, tapestry, embroidery, carpentry and joinery. See more and book your tickets at https://www.bathurstregion.com.au/members/bathurst-heritage-trades-trail/
5. Bathurst Villages – Hill End & Carcoar
During your stay in Bathurst, a day trip to explore the region is a must. An hour’s drive from Bathurst will see you in Hill End. Once a gold rush boom town, Hill End is utterly charming, dotted with well-preserved colonial buildings. Stroll the heritage-listed streetscapes and be transported back in time. A short drive from the town centre is Bald Hill lookout, with spectacular views over the countryside - at sunset, it’s simply magic.
The small historic village of Carcoar has remained virtually unchanged since the 19th century. A 40 minute drive from Bathurst, this postcard-perfect township is nestled in a small, peaceful valley beside the Belubula River. The third-oldest settlement west of the Blue Mountains, wander Carcoar on foot and soak up the history. Stop in at Tomolly for beautiful homewares, and book in advance at Antica Australis for lunch on weekends.
Housed in a heritage-listed old flour mill in historic Piper Street, you’ll find Reckless Brewing Co’s dedicated brewing facility and taproom - Bathurst’s only local craft brewery. Sample craft beers at the bar, and relax in the beer garden with a menu of tapas style and street food-inspired dishes. Bring the family!
7. The Rockley Pub
With renowned chef Matt Moran behind The Rockley Pub’s hearty pub menu, head here for a long lunch after exploring this charming country town. A National Trust historic village just 30 minutes from Bathurst, Rockley is home to over two dozen 19th century heritage buildings. Download a self-guided historic walking guide here: https://www.bathurstregion.com.au/bathurst-region-villages/rockley
8. Mayfield Garden
At 65 hectares, Mayfield Garden is one of largest and most spectacular cool climate gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. Although only 25 years old, its design was inspired by old European gardens. Stunning in every season, you’ll want to spend hours discovering the gardens - including Australia’s largest box hedge maze, chapel, rose garden, lavender parterre, and sunken formal garden rooms. While there, dine at Mayfield’s garden restaurant, with a menu featuring fresh local produce.
9. Abercrombie House
Bathurst’s version of Downton Abbey, Abercrombie House was built in 1870 for the Stewart family from sandstone and granite. The castle-like Scottish mansion has been owned by the Morgan family since 1968, who spent forty years restoring the 50 room heritage treasure. The Morgans have held open tours of Abercrombie House for over half a century, along with hosting decadent high teas, Shakespeare in the Garden, and annual events including the Midwinter Ceilidh and Scottish Night in June, and Christmas in July. For event details and to book, visit their website.
10. The Wool Store
The Wool Store takes pride of place in the heart of Bathurst CBD’s heritage precinct, and is the perfect base from which to explore the region. A historic experience in itself, The Wool Store was built in 1875 as a bulk-delivery store for selling grain and wool. Painstakingly restored by owners and hosts Hamish & Mez Keith, The Wool Store still features its original loading doors, gantry and hooks used to haul up wool bales from the street to the top floor. Striking hardwood ceilings and beams are now exposed, alongside iconic triple-brick walls. With three luxury apartments to choose from, The Wool Store sleeps up to 20 guests, making it also ideal for small groups travelling together. See more and book direct here.
