4.5St. Mary's Cathedral(2.071 reviews) - Church In The Middle Of Sydney Monday: 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Churches & Cathedrals
St Mary’s Cathedral stands on the site of the first Catholic Chapel in Australia. Constructed in local sandstone, the Gothic Revival style of its architecture is reminiscent of the great medieval cathedrals of Europe. The Cathedral is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, under the title of Immaculate Mother of God, Help of Christians. Architect William Wilkinson Wardell was commissioned by Archbishop Polding to design a new St Mary’s following the fire of 1865 which ruined the original Cathedral. Parishioners and visitors are welcome to join us for daily Mass or to join one of our Free Guided tours. Sundays at 2pm, from 2 October 2022.See more..
4.5Old Dubbo Gaol(1.063 reviews) - Morning well spent Monday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
Old Dubbo Gaol is a state heritage listed must see. This remarkably complete and intact gaol operated for 119 years from 1847 to 1966 and is still nestled in the main street of Dubbo. This set of 19th and 20th century gaol buildings create a pocket in time, and the experiences within brings history to life. This regional gaol is representative of powerful, surprising and dark moments in Australian prison history. We house important collections such as the hangman's kit and gallows, and unforgettable experiences such as the dark cells and the bird's-eye view from the watchtower. With guided tours, night tours, and theatrical experiences on offer, the Old Dubbo Gaol is a rare piece of history open to explore.See more..
4.5Fort Scratchley(797 reviews) - Our favourite attraction in Newcastle Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites • Military Bases & Facilities • History Museums
Situated high above Nobby’s Beach with great views over Newcastle, this fort is well worth a visit. A tour of the tunnels is highly recommended. Prices for the tour of the tunnels are $13.50 for an adult with concession prices also available. Our guide was Norm and he did an excellent job making the tour informative and entertaining, thanks to his great sense of humour. He is 95 but you wouldn’t guess it as he still has the energy and enthusiasm of someone half his age. At 1pm each day you can watch the cannon be loaded and fired. We spent a good three hours there at least.See more..
4.5Trial Bay Gaol(655 reviews) - Good lesson in modern Australian history Historic Sites
Trial Bay Gaol enjoys a magnificent headland site with commanding coastal views. The complex itself is also commanding as a stand-out piece of architecture, partially restored from the times when it was operational. Despite being such an impressive sight, the gaol was really something of a folly, with huge blow-outs during construction and then never really being 'fit for purpose'. Perhaps its most significant period was during WWI, when it served as an internment centre for German nationals. The story of this time is very well told at the gaol; the ingenuity and enterprise of the interned Germans makes a great story and also shows up the folly of the internment.See more..
Q Station offers a range of incredible experiences, from boutique hotel accommodation, stunning wedding venues, modern conference facilities and an amazing restaurant, as well as Sydney's best ghost and history tours.See more..
4.5Day Dream Mine(354 reviews) - What a great historic site! Historic Sites • Caverns & Caves
There is so much cool history here and our guide was full of knowledge! We went on a Sunday which did have a surcharge. They have collected a lot of original mining items to put on display both original to this mine and from elsewhere. You start above ground and do a little walk around with commentary followed by putting on the hard hat to explore the dark tunnels below! You do have to pay extra for scones and a beverage which was all homemade. “Jonique Life” Follow our journey around Australia on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube as we highlight wonderful experiences and magical places you can add to your ever growing bucket list. See more..
We stayed at Monte Christo for a birthday and thought it was so amazing! The $195 each included the accommodation, dinner, dessert, Breakfast & the private/ unrestricted tour. I was reading some reviews prior to going in and completely thinking it was a sham but there is just some stuff that we can’t explain. Lawrence (tour guide & owner) has the most amazing stories about the house and has done some insane research on the place. We could tell he takes real pride in what he does and we really appreciated it. Thank you Lawrence & gang for giving us the full experience we definitely recommend!See more..
4.5Nobbys Head and Breakwall(249 reviews) - Nice Nobby walk Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Piers & Boardwalks • Lookouts • Scenic Walking Areas
Always a gorgeous walk but especially grand on a sunny day. Caught a ferry later the same day to view it, and the lovely city of Newcastle, from the shipwreck walk (Stockton). The Nobby's walk is flat - making it easily navigable by wheelchair, bike, scooter, pram or foot.See more..
4.5Lightning Ridge(238 reviews) - Fell in Love with Lightning Ridge Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Mines
Lightning Ridge was not part of our original itinerary but so glad we decided to add it. We absolutely loved the place and the longer we stayed, the more we liked it. The people were wonderful too. We stayed at the Opal Caravan Park, which we highly recommend and did all our shopping at Khan's IGA, which among everything we bought, Khan's eye fillet was the absolute BEST we've ever tasted. It cooked up perfectly and just melted in the mouth. It was so good, we went back and bought more. Will certainly revisit Lightning Ridge and do all the things we didn't get time to do.See more..
I visited this Tower many years ago (1994) and looked forward to a return visit. In doing so I found the road, the walking track and the parking area had been substantially improved. The view from the site of the Tower is spectacular. Likewise the preservation of the Tower built in 1847, is to be acknowledged. The Tower is a historic memory of the activities of Benjamin Boyd, as well as the construction and building techniques of the past. I would highly recommend visiting this semi - isolated location, to view this formidable structure and to embrace the beauty of the surrounding landscape.See more..
4.5Port Macquarie Museum(200 reviews) - Great experience and lovely staff Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
I was thoroughly impressed with the experience. The exhibits were well-curated and provided a deep dive into the history of the area. From the Indigenous cultures to the early European settlers, there was something for everyone to learn and appreciate. The staff were also extremely knowledgeable and friendly, making the visit even more enjoyable. I highly recommend checking out this museum if you're in the area, you won't be disappointedSee more..
4.5Old Government House(169 reviews) - The oldest public building in Australia (still standing) Monday: Historic Sites • Government Buildings
Old Government House is full of history from Australia's earliest colonial years. Built by convicts, it is the country's oldest public building that is still standing and was the country residence of the first 10 governors of New South Wales, with Gov Lachlan Macquarie probably being the most notable and also spending the most amount of time here. There are some of Macquarie's possession on display in the house including his marital bed. The site is now managed by the National Trust. We took an organised NT tour of the house which was fine - though I must admit at times I had trouble with the Scottish accent of our (very knowledgeable) guide. If you decide not to take a tour there are good information sheets available in each of the rooms.See more..
Made famous by the Peter Allen song. Tenterfield Saddlery isn’t much to see. An old historic building still involved with leather goods, it makes reference to Peter Allen with images of him and a particularly large set of shoes in the window which I’m assuming belonged to the singer. Pop by and get a couple pics See more..
4.5Dundullimal Homestead(148 reviews) - Beautiful homestead and historical buildings providing a peak to the past Monday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
For the 2021-2022 Holiday season, Dundullimal will be closed from Christmas day through to Thursday 6th January, REOPENING Friday 7th January 2022. A visit to this National Trust (NSW) property, allows visitors to engage in a special experience, stepping back into rural life in the early colony. It's story is one of amazing endeavour and vision, evidenced in the creation of a finely crafted historic home. The homestead has survived in near original condition at a time when the land was beyond the limits of settlement. Today it is set on 4 hectares of land, surrounded by farmland and is only 5 minutes from the city of Dubbo. Experience the tranquility of a unique part of Australian pioneering history. Enjoy a self guided tour at your leisure. Guides are also able to assist and enhance your experience. Adults $10; Concessional entry price $8; Family (2 adults/2 children) $25.00.See more..
The heritage jewel of New England. A historic Edwardian mansion surrounded by formal gardens and a collection of farm buildings dating back to the 1830s. The intact furnished two-storey mansion is a time capsule of family living, largely untouched since the Edwardian era. Saumarez Homestead features a wonderful collection that illustrates the story of pastoral life from the 1870s to the 1970s. Indulge your senses in the nine picturesque gardens surrounding the Homestead, designed for New England’s distinct four seasons. Mary White’s Garden comes alive in early spring, with swathes of colourful bulbs, cottage flowers and spreading wisteria. The renowned Heritage Rose Garden flowers on mass in late spring/early summer, with sweet scents. Or see the stunning contrasts of tall blue skies and rich autumn colour in heritage trees and spreads of windflowers.See more..
The Australiana Pioneer Village is set on 27 picturesque acres on the bank of the Hawkesbury River at Wilberforce - it is listed on the N.S.W State Heritage Register The Village comprises original Colonial Pioneer's Homes and Artefacts, acres of Picnic Grounds, Bushell's Lagoon, a Railway Station, Machinery Shed, Village Green, "Rose Cottage" the oldest timber dwelling in Australia, our Church, Shearing Shed, Damper Camp, "Riverview Cottage", the original houses of local families, Salter's Barn, the Riverstone Police Station and General Store, a Blacksmiths, Sackville Post Office, Shops and more The Village is run entirely by Volunteers who have a great passion for preserving our local - and Australia's - Colonial History New Volunteers are always welcome We open every Sunday 10am to 4pm Our School Excursion Education Program runs on Tuesdays and Wednesdays - bookings need to be made in advance as do Bus Trips. We have 2 Eateries - The Oxboro Inn and The Damper CampSee more..
Good to see the river up compared to 6 months a go when it was very low. difficult to visualise the large amount of river traffic on the river 100 years a go, good place to stop and have a break, plenty of parking and spots for car & caravans. coffee shop near by sells good coffee places to sit and take it in.See more..
I hadn’t realised that the fish traps are not visible when there is a good flow in the river, but the cultural tour at the museum is excellent nevertheless. The museum is well set up with photos and artefacts and the guide gives an excellent talk on the fish traps and the history of the Aboriginal people of the district. He told how the fish traps saw people from different tribes gathered in harmony, and that today the traditional owners are happy that the site continues to draw people of different backgrounds.See more..
4.5Bourke Historic Cemetery(85 reviews) - Pay your respects to Fred Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Cemeteries
It’s worth a visit to simply pay your respects to a great Australian. Fred Hollows grave should be a mandatory visit for anyone visiting Bourke. It makes you cry and give you goosebumps. What an incredible individual and what a fantastic legacy. See more..
We really enjoyed this spot! Easy drive in with a 4WD, drop toilets and multiple areas to park. The walk in is easy past the rustic cottage then a descent to water level to see the whaling station relics. It is hard to imagine whales being rigged up in this spot... we went out for a swim and tried to visualise a whale sitting in the water next to us! Great spot to meander, picnic, swim, journal & contemplate. Highly Recommended. See more..
From Bago Rd the turnoff into Internal Break Rd is gravel which changes again to dirt. There are signs on Jimmy’s Rd which say 4WD only but there were 2WD cars in the car park when we arrived. It is only about 10mins to the little carpark which fits about 6 cars. There are drop toilets there but bring your own toilet paper. It’s a forest so bring the Aerogard as there are lots of mozzies. The loop track says 30mins but only took us about 15min (all in things). Any easy enough walk but for the elderly or those not steady on their feet it would be challenging. There are little footbridges over shallow creeks. The red walking trail markers are easy to follow. The tree is an unexpected spectacular sight only about 5-7 min from the carpark. See more..
4.5Gundagai Heritage Railway(47 reviews) - Lovely old railway station Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
We visited this station however were only able to see the facade. This station was built in 1886. It’s listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register which means it will be preserved for future generations. It appeared to be well preserved and in great condition.See more..
4.0Ophir Reserve(47 reviews) - Thar's Gold in Them Hills! Historic Sites • Mines
The site of Australia's first important gold discovery has working gold mine.See more..
4.5Tweed Regional Museum - Murwillumbah(35 reviews) - Great way to get your bearings (geographically, geologically, historically) when coming into the Tweed region. Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
At Tweed Regional Museum learn about the rich natural and cultural history of the Tweed, discover colourful characters and their stories and be surprised by exhibitions that reflect the people who call the Tweed Shire home. Exhibitions include the award-winning Land | Life | Culture display, offering unique cultural, biological and geological stories of how the Tweed was shaped over millions of years. We also have a changing temporary exhibition program, focusing on specific Tweed stories.See more..
Situated on the grounds of the University of New England this heritage listed homestead was the last stop on the guided heritage bus tour. Our volunteer guide shared the story of the White family. A lovely spot and beautiful home.See more..
4.5Gulgong Gold Experience(31 reviews) - A great gold pan experience Historic Sites • Game & Entertainment Centers
Gulgong Gold Experience has been established on Red Hill where gold was first found in 1870. Gulgong's Gold Rush history is well documented and displayed within the facility. Visitors are encouraged to read, watch and listen as they are guided through this unique facility. The story is told by walking through a replica mining tunnel with displays which gives the visitor a feeling of being underground, but not claustrophobic. There is an original mine shaft with a poppet head constructed overhead, a miners cottage and the opportunity to try your hand at gold panning. If you wish to have a little more fun you can purchase a panning activity bag withthe hire of a pan for $5 for the kids. BBQ facility are available for families wishing to enjoy the tranquil parkland atmosphere, especially to break a long trip and let the kids run wild in a safe, natural environment.See more..
Tocal Homestead is a heritage-listed homestead at Tocal Road, Paterson, Dungog Shire, New South Wales, Australia. The original 1845 homestead was designed by William Moir, while an 1867 barn was designed by Edmund Blacket. The property is owned by the C. B. Alexander Foundation. It was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on 2 April 1999. The Tocal College complex, built on the former homestead grounds from the 1960s, is separately heritage-listed.See more..
4.0Hands on Rock(26 reviews) - Incredible Indigenous Stencil Art Historic Sites
Hands on Rock is a great walk up to a cave of indigenous stencil art. The reserve is culturally significant to the Wiradjuri people, it was traditionally a place for only women and children. The rock art consists of over 100 hand stencils of women and children, emu feet and other motifs. It's a privilege to be able to view such ancient and important art in this country.See more..
Sat nav had trouble getting us up the roadway, but the stairs are in excellent condition but not for the unsteady. See more..
4.5Retford Park(24 reviews) - Ravishing Retford Park Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Retford Park is a place of great heritage significance. Its European history extends back to grants of land promised to Edward Riley senior by Governor Macquarie in 1821. Retford Park was gifted to National Trust (NSW) by owner James Fairfax AC in 2016. The gardens and house are open at advertised times for tours, visit the National Trust website to learn more and book your ticket.See more..
At Jibbon Head/Point in the Royal National Park, which is at the end of a one-kilometre beach track from Bundeena, there is a good example of rock engravings that is accessible for public to view. The carvings are on a large sandstone platform and depict killer whales, stingrays, turtles, kangaroos and a well-endowed lawgiver, long ago carved by the Dharawal people of the area.See more..
It took me a while to find the access point off the northern end of Woy Woy Road because there's only a small sign-post indicating 'Bulgandry' ... nothing more. Well worth the hunt though. It's a pleasant walk from car park on sealed, wheelchair friendly track (but a bit rough in places). The track opens out onto a large rock platform gallery, displaying well-preserved Aboriginal engravings. The gallery is named after 'Bulgandry Man' an ancestral hero and one of the larger engravings at the site. Other engravings are mostly fish of varying sizes and a Kangaroo or two. I really liked the natural, unspilt setting and spent some time sitting on the boardwalk looking and listening. Walk Length: .8km return / Time Required: 20 minute return / Difficulty level: easy / Climb Incline: 19 metresSee more..
The ancient petroglyph rock art is located within Gundabooka National Park 20 kms off Kidman Way on sandy dirty track that is marked by National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) signs to the Mulgowan carpark & picnic site. From here a marked NPWS path leads up & into the dry Mulareenya creek where the Yapa rock art can be found under the ledge. The NPWS have constructed walking ledges & have caged off the actual petroglyphs.See more..
4.5Yarri and Jacky Jacky Sculpture(21 reviews) - A great rescue story Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues
Amazing to read the story of Yarri & Jacky Jacky. I am glad the town has constructed this memorial to their courage and compassion. When you think about it these two had every reason not to help but they went above and beyond to save as many as they could from the flood waters. It reminds me of Jesus our great rescuer from sin, also the story of the good Samaritan and of our SES volunteers who do similar rescues today..See more..
Garroorigang is an Historic Home - part of Goulburn's history for 158 years. Step back in time to a house which is full of Victorian and Edwardian furniture, books, and other items from those periods. It is still a lived-in family home for the Hume family (collateral descendants of Hamilton Hume), which is open to the public.See more..
4.0O'Brien's Lookout(18 reviews) - Excellent Lookout and Gold Mining History Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
The first suggestion of gold in the Weddin Mountains area was first reported in the Yass Courier in 21st February 1863, yet it was nearly 3 years until Cornelius O'Brien who was tending sheep for John Wood of Brundah saw the gleam of gold in a quartz outcrop. O'Brien registered his claim in Young on 29th September 1866. O'Briens reef was the richest on the Grenfell gold field. It underwent numerous periods of activity and almost all of the features of the present landscape relate to mining operations. O'Brien left the district in 1875 following the death of his wife the previous year. O'Brien's Lookout is easily accessible to visitors with car parking, picnic facilities and toilets. There is remnant mining machinery on the site including a horse works, stamper, air shafts and poppet head. Interpretive signage explains the gold production.See more..
This has to be one of the prettiest little wharves within the Riverina area. Highly historic and well signposted with information. It takes only a few minutes to visit the wharf and is a must do in Wentworth!See more..
4.5Miss Traill’s House(15 reviews) - Historic Homestead and Gardens right in the heart of Bathurst Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
My girlfriend and I visited this beautiful home over the recent June long weekend - we loved it! It was so interesting walking through the home because it is so well maintained, it's like walking into a time machine and coming out in the early 1900's! I love art and architecture and if you do to you'll love your visit.The guides are very friendly and knowledgeable and it was very interesting learning how the home and Miss Traill were so closely linked to the growth of the Bathurst area. I would definitely recommend a visit to Miss Traill's House to anyone visiting Bathurst.See more..
4.5Broken Hill Trades Hall(13 reviews) - A must for the architecture and homage to those who fought hard to gain decent working conditions. Historic Sites
You can just walk in through the open door - into a stunning entrance hall with beautiful stained glass windows. The meeting room is also beautifully restored. We saw this on a volunteer guided history walk of the city. Our guide imparted a lot of information about both the building and its function for miners, engaged in extremely hazardous work. A visit is a fitting acknowledgement of those who laid the foundation for the work conditions we enjoy today. See more..
4.5Florabank Historic Home & Garden(12 reviews) - Such a lovely garden but the owners need help! Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Gardens
Jerilderie Historic Residence is a faithfully restored Bank of NSW 1880s Queen Victoria era building. Enjoy the nostalgic experience of history preserved in this living museum which is also home to your hosts Beth and Roy who have paid particular attention to detail of the elegance and beauty of the Victorian era, so you are invited to step into a time warp that this home provides. It is reputed that the safe within the vault in the centre of the home is the safe robbed by Ned Kelly in 1879 moved to the site when the "new" bank was built. The residence is set within beautiful old world English cottage gardens with fountains and gazebo to name a few highlights. Set within the grounds is a show room of authentic collections of Australian memorabilia. Tours of the home and garden by appointment or call in and say hello.See more..
4.5Woolpack Inn Museum(12 reviews) - Very interesting Monday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
Lots of interesting things in the museum. Congratulations very well done and worth a visit to see the history of the areaSee more..
Riversdale is a beautiful 1840's Georgian House owned by the National Trust Aust (NSW)set in award winning gardens at the site of the original Goulburn Township then known as Goulburn Plains. Run by volunteers the house gives you a step back in time to the 1800's and Goulburn's pioneering days. Exquisite hand crafts and furniture. Devonshire Teas on the third Sunday every month.See more..
The walk from the Trial Bay Gaol to the German Monument is spectacular. The walk itself is not challenging but would be different if you had impaired mobility as the walking track is at times rough and uneven. The views of Trial Bay and the ocean are stunning and if you are present at the right times of the year can offer whales watching. The Monument is a tribute to German prisoners of was who were interned at the South West Rocks site during World War 1.See more..
4.5Tocumwal Aviation Museum & The 'Drome Cafe(10 reviews) - Tocumwal aviation museum Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums
The Tocumwal Aviation Museum's vision is to educate, entertain and inspire visitors to foster an appreciation for, and promotion of, Australia's military and civilian aviation heritage and history, with a focus on Tocumwal’s unique and significant contribution to that history. The Tocumwal Aviation Museum is open 7 days a week all year round and incorporates artifacts, memorabilia, interactive exhibitions, historic and vintage aircraft static displays, regular flying displays and much more.See more..
3.5Survey Tree 1882(10 reviews) - In Burke & Will's Footsteps Historic Sites
Funny how a doomed & failed journey still resonates in today's world. Part of Australian folklore and a part of Burke's folly as he ineptly led the expedition to its fateful conclusion. The campground is a lovely spot alongside the water and the expedition team & animals camped here to rest whilst B & W stayed in the Maidens Pub in Town, nice to be the boss right ? Not as famous as the " Dig Tree" but still a good stop.See more..
4.5Wingham Wharf(9 reviews) - Nice to Revisit Historic Sites
We had friends staying with us, so took them out to Wingham to see the Brush as well as the historic wharf. It is interesting to imagine all the ships coming and going, the bustle of the place. Today there is no transportation of goods by ship but it is a nice reminder of times gone by.See more..
4.5The Tamworth Waler Memorial(9 reviews) - Bronze statue of a WWI trooper saying goodbye to his horse. Very interesting storyboards regarding the Light Horsemen. Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites
A tribute to the men of the ANZAC corps who served in the Boer, Sudan and First World wars, the Waler Light Horse memorial statue is of an Australian World War I trooper saying farewell to his Waler horse in the deserts of the Middle East. Between 1861 and 1931 approximately 500,000 horses were exported from Australia to the Indian Army, the Boer War and Egypt with The Australian Light Horse as remounts. Of these horses only one returned, a gelding Sandy belonging to Major General Sir William Bridges. The Trooper’s uniform and the military saddler on the horse are based on original WW1 equipment. Designed and sculpted by talented artist, Tanya Bartlett of Newcastle, NSW, the bronze memorial was unveiled and dedicated on 29 October 2005 by well-known and respected, retired Army Major General WB Digger James AC, MBE, MC. The Monument is a feature of ANZAC Day ceremonies and other army commemorative services.See more..
