Hunter Valley Attractions

Barrington Tops National Park
Barrington Tops Forest Road Gloucester New South Wales 2422

Carved out of an ancient volcano, the park rises from near sea level to over 1500 metres. In the lower valleys, you'll find World Heritage-listed subtropical rainforests. Up on the plateau, there is subalpine woodland which regularly sees snow in winter. Most of the area is declared wilderness, and it's a well-known destination for bushwalkers. But the park is accessible even to those with limited mobility. It’s an excellent track network extends from short, easy walks to steep overnight treks. The park's varied environments are home to a wide range of plants and animals, and it protects more than 50 rare and threatened species. In this area, many northern and southern plants meet the limit of their range.

Bimbadgen Estate
790 Mcdonalds Road Pokolbin New South Wales 2320

Bimbadgen Estate Winery is dedicated to the art of wine and is a two hour's drive north-west of Sydney in the picturesque Hunter Valley. It offers a very special experience, with quality wines grown from 30-year-old vineyards and produced in open plan winemaking facilities, all of which you can see on your visit. The winery itself is a reflection of the commitment to quality Hunter Valley wines that is renowned around the world. No expense has been spared in acquiring state-of-the-art wine-making technology, combined with the finest grapes and the best French and American barrels that produce very special regional wines. Bimbadgen has a large amphitheatre, which is located next to the Bell Tower, a distinctive design feature of the vineyard. The amphitheatre hosts several musical events throughout the year, including 'A Day on the Green'.

Bogey Hole
York Drive Newcastle New South Wales 2300

Take a dip in the Bogey Hole, which was cut into ocean rocks by convict labour in 1819. You will realise the convicts amazing achievement when you see the waves crashing into the pool. The Bogey Hole was constructed by order of Commandant Morisset in about 1820 for his own personal use. Morisset was Commandant of Newcastle from 1819 to 1822. It was known, originally as the "Commandants Baths". The name "Bogey Hole" was applied afterwards and comes from the indigenous word meaning "to bathe".

Brokenwood Wines
401-427 Mcdonalds Road Pokolbin New South Wales 2320

Brokenwood is one of the Hunter's best boutique wineries consistently producing premium wines. Established in 1970 the winery is situated in the heart of Pokolbin with plenty of accommodation and other wineries nearby. Brokenwood has won a host of national wine show awards and also exports internationally.

Caves Beach
Mawson Close Caves Beach New South Wales 2281

Caves Beach is well known for its namesake - a network of sea caves at the southern end of the beach, which can be explored at low tide. Caves Beach has well maintained barbecue facilities and a picnic area. Bring the family down to Caves Beach for a great day out.

Honeysuckle Precinct
Honeysuckle Drive Newcastle New South Wales 2300

The harbour is home to Honeysuckle a major waterfront rejuvenation project transforming Newcastle. Working wharves are becoming places of play with the creation of foreshore promenades and open squares offering waterfront cafes and restaurants - all with glorious views. The Promenade along the harbour foreshore is an easy shared pathway suitable for all the family. Offering a vibrant mix of restaurants, cafes, culture and public space, there is plenty to seen and do. Enjoy a drink at one of the casual bars while watching the sun set over the port and enjoy a twilight meal at one of the world-class restaurants.

Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery
First Street Booragul New South Wales 2284

Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery is an exceptional cultural and tourist destination. Beautifully located on the shores of Lake Macquarie, the unique precinct embraces expansive leafy grounds, a sculpture park and an award-winning exhibition facility with a national reputation. The gallery's innovative and relevant program ensures that every visit is a visual treat. Noteworthy touring shows alternate with lively gallery-curated exhibitions featuring nationally significant artists, many of whom share a connection with the Hunter. Strong and respectful Aboriginal projects and exhibitions are integrated within the program.

Hunter Valley Wine School
Hunter Resort Hermitage Road Pokolbin New South Wales 2320

Hunter Resort offers the total “Wine Experience”. The on site winery is by far the largest, and most advanced in the Hunter Valley. The Wine Tasting Cellars are open everyday to try the fruits of their labour... Crushing some 6.500 tonnes of grapes each year, the winery has a stainless steel storage capacity for 6 million litres of wine. Not to be missed are the daily comprehensive winery tours to experience how wine is actually made...right from the grapevine to bottle! The Hunter Valley Wine School commences daily at 9.00am and is an informal tutorial of wine education. Walk through the on site vineyard of 30 year old Shiraz vines and discuss matters viticultural. Then it’s off to the crusher and into the Winery to see the air bag presses, huge tanks, the Potter Fermenters, the filtration equipment, and the largest Rotovats in the Hunter. From there, the tour then moves through into the Oak Cask maturation area, and on into the Wine Tasting Cellars.

Hunter Valley Zoo
Lomas Lane Nulkaba New South Wales 2325

Located within the Hunter's scenic and popular Wine Country, Hunter Valley Zoo has acres of both Australian and exotic animals. Feed our animals ... you can feed the kangaroos, wallabies, deer and birds as often as you like. Feed you family ... either cook up a storm on the barbecues or get some refreshments at our ZOO Kiosk ... then relax in the picnic grounds. We have many kangaroo and wallaby species to see, as well as koalas, dingoes, wombats, reptiles, monkeys, birds and deer.

Maitland Gaol
6 - 18 John Street East Maitland New South Wales 2323

Maitland Gaol in the Hunter has a vibrant history spanning more than 150 years. After housing some of Australia's most hardened and notorious criminals, Maitland Gaol closed in 1998. The cell doors have now been swung open, with visitors invited to serve a small amount of time learning about the facility, its past prisoners and daring escapes. Maitland Gaol offers visitors the opportunity to interpret this unique attraction by indulging in a world-class, self-guided audio tour or take a themed- guided tour or torchlight tour by night. Only the brave can battle a group sleepover night. Group and specialty tours by arrangement only.

Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre
Corner Bridge Street and William Street Muswellbrook New South Wales 2333

The Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre is located on the New England Highway three hours drive northwest of Sydney and two hours from Newcastle. The town of Muswellbrook lies in the Upper Hunter region among a diverse rural and industrial economy encompassing coal mining, farming, vineyards and the horse industry.The Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre is located on the New England Highway three hours drive northwest of Sydney and two hours from Newcastle. The town of Muswellbrook lies in the Upper Hunter region among a diverse rural and industrial economy encompassing coal mining, farming, vineyards and the horse industry.

Mount Pleasant Wine and Food Estate
401 Marrowbone Road Pokolbin New South Wales 2320

Established in 1921 by Maurice O'Shea - a pioneer of Australian winemaking - the historic Mount Pleasant winery nestles on the slopes of the Brokenback range in the Hunter Valley. The hub of various Mount Pleasant vineyards is Mount Pleasant Food and Wine Estate, which is one of the Hunter Valley's most popular wine destinations. Mount Pleasant Estate offers tastings of some of Australia's most respected wines, including Elizabeth and Lovedale Semillon, Rosehill Shiraz and the acclaimed Maurice O'Shea Shiraz. Set amongst picturesque and historic vineyards, key attractions include Elizabeth's - a relaxed dining venue for lunches, morning and afternoon teas, evening functions and wedding receptions. The Estate also offers a wine-related gift shop, a function centre, picnic facilities, winery tours and special events such as the Hunter Valley Harvest Festival (March - April) and the Budburst Festival in September.

Newcastle Beach
Shortland Esplanade Newcastle New South Wales 2300

Newcastle Beach has a reputation for being one of the best surf locations in Australia and is a favoured spot for board riders wishing to catch that perfect wave off Newcastle Point. Lifeguard Services are provided seven days a week during swimming season. A stroll between Newcastle Beach and Nobbys Beach will take approximately 15 minutes along the scenic Bather’s Way. And it's adjacent to the historic Time Tunnel Mural which provides traffic-free access to the top end of Hunter Street.

Newcastle Region Art Gallery
Laman Street Newcastle New South Wales 2300

The Newcastle Regional Art Gallery offers an enriching and rewarding experience. Through its diverse range of public programs and changing exhibitions the gallery plays a key role in stimulating cultural life in the Hunter Region. The Gallery's collection of some 5000 works rivals other public collections in Australia with its quality and breadth.

Pokolbin Estate
298 McDonalds Road Pokolbin New South Wales 2321

Set in the heart if Pokolbin, opposite Cypress Lakes Golf Course is the beautiful Pokolbin Estate Vineyard which was planted in 1970 and boasts premium quality wines from Shiraz, Semillion and Riesling. Pokolbin Estate has Wine Tasting and Sales available. There is a barbecue area available for your use.

Pooles Rock Wines Cellar Door and Winery
Corner McDonalds and DeBeyers Roads Pokolbin New South Wales 2320

Poole’s Rock Wines is a dynamic family company committed to crafting exceptional quality wines. The company’s portfolio encompasses the flagship Poole’s Rock label, the eye-catching Cockfighter’s Ghost varietal range, and the popular Firestick brand – an array of wines for all occasions. Visit the contemporary Cellar Door at the historic Post Office vineyard in Pokolbin, one of the oldest vineyards in the hub of the Hunter Valley, where our knowledgeable and friendly staff look forward to introducing you to a selection of award-winning wines.

Singleton Historical Society and Museum Inc
Burdekin Park Bourke Street Singleton New South Wales 2330

The Singleton Historical Museum is housed in a c1841 building with in the picturesque Burdekin Park. The building was built in 1874 as a gaol, with the keeper’s residence complete with cells attached. Steeped in history, this Georgian style building with Mid-Victorian portico was originally built as a lock-up.

Vacy Arts Centre
Gresford Road Vacy Art Centre Vacy New South Wales 2421

Nestled in the beautiful village of Vacy, this quaint little shop ( in the past was their local butcher so has a lot of history) has a collection of beautiful arts and crafts including knitted, crochet and many more. All items on display are crafted by local people who are artists in their chosen work. There are some very beautiful pieces.

Vacy Bridge over Paterson River
Main Road 128 Vacy New South Wales 2421

Completed in 1898, the Vacy bridge is an early example of an Allan type timber truss road bridge, and in 1998 was in good condition. As a timber truss road bridge, it has many associational links with important historical events, trends, and people, including the expansion of the road network and economic activity throughout NSW, and Percy Allan, the designer of this type of truss. The Vacy bridge is located in the Hunter region, which has 15 historic bridges each constructed before 1905, and it gains heritage significance from its proximity to the high concentration of other historic bridges in the area.