Armidale

New England Regional Art Museum The museum (closed Mon) has over 40 000 visitors each year and 8 gallery spaces, an audiovisual theatre, artist studio and cafe. The Howard Hinton and Chandler Coventry collections are among the most important and extensive regional collections, and include works by legendary Australian artists such as Arthur Streeton, Tom Roberts, Margaret Preston and John Coburn. There is also a separate Museum of Printing (open Thurs–Sun) featuring the F. T. Wimble & Co collection; open Tue–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat–Sun 10am–4pm; 106–114 Kentucky St; (02) 6772 5255.

Armidale Heritage Tour: includes Railway Museum, St Peter's Anglican Cathedral (built with 'Armidale blues' bricks) and University of New England; departs daily from visitor centre and is free. Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place: includes museum, education centre and craft displays; Mon–Fri 10am–4pm, Sat–Sun 10am–2pm; 128 Kentucky St; (02) 6771 3606. Armidale Folk Museum: National Trust–classified building with comprehensive collection of pioneer artefacts from the region including toys and buggies; 1–4pm daily; Cnr Faulkner and Rusden sts; (02) 6771 4398. Self-guide heritage walk and heritage drive: 3 km walk and 25 km drive provide history and points of interest in and around the town; maps from visitor centre.

Oxley Wild Rivers National Park World Heritage–listed with the largest area of dry rainforest in NSW, this park includes Dangars Falls (21 km SE), a 120 m waterfall in a spectacular gorge setting, and Wollomombi Falls (40 km E), which at 220 m is one of the highest falls in the state. Activities in the park include camping, canoeing, walking and horseriding. University of New England: features Booloominbah Homestead, Antiquities Museum, Zoology Museum and kangaroo and deer park; Handel St; (02) 6773 3333; 5 km NW. Saumarez Homestead: National Trust–owned house offering tours; weekends and public holidays 10am–5pm, closed mid-June to end Sept; Saumarez Rd; (02) 6771 3255; 5 km S. Dumaresq Dam: walking trails, boating, swimming and trout fishing (Oct–June); Dumaresq Dam Rd; 15 km NE. Hillgrove: former mining town with Rural Life and History Museum featuring goldmining equipment (open Fri–Mon 10am–5pm, honesty box with gold-coin donation) and self-guide walk through old town site; brochure at visitor centre; 31 km E.

Lake Copeton 93 km

Lake Copeton has an excellent catchment area, fed by the Gwydir River and runoff from the New England Tablelands. The lake is about 46 km west of Inverell on the Gwydir Highway. Its dam wall was constructed primarily to... Find out more

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South-West Rocks 136 km

When it comes to popularity, there are two types of fishing destinations: those that are hot all the time and those that wax and wane depending on the season. South West Rocks is in the first category. For as long as I... Find out more

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Coffs Harbour - Fishing Sub-region 143 km

My introduction to fishing north of Sydney was at Coffs Harbour, an area with a diverse range of options. The first time I fished here I was into land-based game and spent most of my time on the ledges of Mutton Bird... Find out more

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Port Stephens 246 km

 Port Stephens is about 220 km north of Sydney and offers a mixed bag of quality species. In the estuaries, bream, flathead, mulloway and whiting dominate the catch while beach anglers do well on tailor, whiting and... Find out more

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Birdwatching - Port Macquarie to Lismore 32 km

There are a couple of top birdwatching spots in the New England area. One of the most spectacular is an all-weather bird hide among masses of waterbirds at Quipolly Dam, about 18 kilometres north-east of Quirindi. Mother... Find out more

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Bush-tucker tasting - Macksville 122 km

Sample some Australian bushfoods at Valley of the Mist near Macksville, a farm dedicated to sustainable methods. You will taste bush fruits, nuts, herbs and condiments and have a tour of the farm. You can also take a... Find out more

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Houseboating on the Macleay River 128 km

Although large chugging houseboats can be an environmental no-no, Macleay River Houseboats at Kempsey are small – designed for just two people – use relatively clean four-stroke petrol motors, have... Find out more

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Picnicking around Coffs Harbour 141 km

This is such an attractive area that you will find no shortage of places to throw the rug down – whether on a beach, a headland, or a patch of quiet forest floor. One spot worth checking out is the beautiful North... Find out more

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Sea Acres Nature Reserve 156 km

This cool coastal forest, 5 kilometres south of Port Macquarie, is great for a stop and a gentle stroll, with lush rainforest extending right down to the beach. There is a 1.5-kilometre wheelchair-accessible boardwalk,... Find out more

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Burning Mountain Nature Reserve 167 km

Forget global warming for a while and marvel at this coal seam, about 30 metres underground, that has been burning as hot as 1700°C for an estimated 5500 years. A 3.5-kilometre walk to the top of the mountain through... Find out more

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Kayaking, Newcastle to Port Macquarie 169 km

Barrington Outdoor Adventure Centre at Gloucester offers an exciting one-day tour down the Barrington River. Guides can tailor the trip for beginners or family groups, choosing a quieter part of the river where there are... Find out more

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Barrington Tops National Park 171 km

Best known for its superb bushwalking among ancient Antarctic beech forest and rainforest that receives snow several times a year, this 83 403-hectare park is one of the highest spots on the Great Dividing Range and even... Find out more

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Koala-spotting - Coonabarabran 244 km

Coonabarabran is home to one of the healthiest koala colonies in the state, and the solitary mammals are often seen in and around the town. Try the Porcupine Reserve and while there check out the view over the Liverpool... Find out more

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Snorkelling and diving around Nelson Bay 249 km

Nelson Bay and surrounds offer some superb snorkelling and diving. Many locations are accessible by boat only, such as beautiful Broughton Island, but there are some exceptional shore dives and snorkelling – some... Find out more

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Bonville Golf Resort 132 km

Bonville is Australia’s most beautiful inland course. Carved from 250 hectares of flooded gums and blackbutt forest, with small pockets of subtropical rainforest, Bonville is often described as Australia’s... Find out more

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The Vintage Golf Club 250 km

Hunter Valley semillon, with its zesty aromas and flavours, is sometimes described by wine experts as ‘Australia’s wine gift to the world’. Its appeal also lies in its capacity to age well. The same... Find out more

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Archie’s on the Park

Archie’s on the Park is widely regarded as Armidale’s premier restaurant. Contemporary fare is served in the beautiful historic dining room, and the wine list is particularly good.... Find out more

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Caffiends in the Mall Armidale

Caffiends in the Mall is renowned in Armidale as one of ‘the’ place to go for coffee.  The unpretentious cafe recently changed hands but still offers great service, gourmet food and... Find out more

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The Little Brewing Company 156 km

Australia’s new breed of brewer can arrive at the craft by sometimes circuitous routes. For Warwick Little, that included 20 years as an ambulance officer, home brewing, a wine science course and a pair of... Find out more

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Dumaresq Dam camping area 11 km

This peaceful, relaxed setting is on the shore of Dumaresq Dam, 12 km north-west of Armidale, via Boorolong and Dumaresq Dam roads. Fishing, birdwatching and canoeing are all popular activities, and there’s a... Find out more

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Dangars Falls and Gorge camping area 19 km

Located in the north-east of the park and accessed via Dangarsleigh, this popular spot delivers impressive views of the gorge; after rain, the falls are charged with water, and in springtime wildflowers carpet the... Find out more

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Rocky River Fossicking Area camping ground 24 km

Get into the spirit of the goldmining era – Rocky River Fossicking Area, 6 km to the west of Uralla, is the site of a major goldrush in the 1850s. Pop into the visitor centre for some equipment, then set up a tent... Find out more

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Long Point camping area 31 km

Set amid forest in the north of the park, this camping ground is accessible via the old goldmining town of Hillgrove from the Waterfall Way. The easy Cassinia Walk (1.5 km, 45 min) and medium Chandler View Circuit Walk... Find out more

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Green Gully camping area 35 km

Just off the Waterfall Way in the north of the park, Green Gully has short walks to lookouts over Chandler and Wollomombi falls – the latter being the largest single-drop waterfall in Australia (240 m). It’s... Find out more

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Wattle Flat camping area 55 km

Named for the acacias that flower along the banks of the Styx River in early spring, Wattle Flat is a spacious, grassed area ringed with eucalypts, with welcoming river pools nearby. Turn on to Loop Rd from Styx River... Find out more

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Barokee Rest Area 56 km

Barokee is the most popular campground, with secluded campsites amid eucalypts and banksia. There’s water in a nearby creek, but it needs to be treated or boiled, otherwise bring your own. Walkers can take on the... Find out more

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East Kunderang Homestead 57 km

This restored 1890s colonial homestead sleeps up to 10, with a possible 4 extra beds in adjacent quarters. It’s fully furnished, complete with open wood fireplace, barbecue, well-equipped kitchen and 2 bathrooms... Find out more

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Native Dog Rest Area 59 km

There’s enough room here for your caravan or camper trailer, and a number of walks leave from here, including the easy Warrigal Track (1 km, 30 mins return) and the Woolpack Rocks (7.4 km, 3 hours return).... Find out more

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Pembroke Tourist and Leisure Park 2 km

A lovely spot with shady trees and wide expanses of lawn, this park is only 3 km from the town centre. There are two kennel areas where guests can leave their dogs while enjoying the local attractions or catching up on... Find out more

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Uralla Caravan Park 22 km

Located one block from the New England Highway and within easy walking distance of the town, this is a clean and tidy park suitable for short or longer visits.... Find out more

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Country Road Caravan Park 23 km

A popular stopover on the New England Highway, this park has good facilities and is an ideal base for exploring the area. Bookings are required in peak periods.... Find out more

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Glen Rest Tourist Park 82 km

Located 3.5 km south of Glen Innes, in a pleasant rural setting, this park is an ideal stopover for travellers passing through the region. Bookings are required during peak periods and festivals and a minimum-length stay... Find out more

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Kootingal Kourt Caravan Park 83 km

Conveniently located alongside the New England Highway, this tidy park is ideal for an overnight stop. It is also a good base for those attending the Tamworth Country Music Festival during January, when a booking is... Find out more

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Craigieburn Cottages 84 km

On the southern outskirts of town, this park is in a picturesque setting with green lawns, shady trees and enormous granite boulders.... Find out more

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Fossicker Caravan Park 85 km

Only 200 metres from the centre of town, this park is within easy walking distance of most town services. It is one of the best parks in Glen Innes. A minimum-length stay applies at Easter, long weekends and special... Find out more

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Austin Tourist Park 96 km

This large park just 4 km from the town centre offers a range of facilities. A minimum booking period of 14 days applies during the country music festival. Bookings are also required at other peak times. Small dogs only... Find out more

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Paradise Caravan Park 96 km

The park is within walking distance from the centre of Tamworth and is extremely popular during the country music festival. Bookings are required at peak times, however bookings are not accepted during the month of... Find out more

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Nambucca River Tourist Park 124 km

About 6 km north of Macksville just off the Pacific Highway, this neat, family-owned park is adjacent to the Nambucca River. It is ideal for an overnight stop or a couple of days. Bookings are required in peak periods,... Find out more

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Annie’s B&B

Annie’s charming self-contained B&B includes three suites: Studio, Garden and Piano (so-named because it houses a grand piano!). The property is on 1.5 hectares of rambling bushland and features a saltwater... Find out more

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Claremont Crossing

Claremont Crossing is proof that ‘rustic charm’ doesn’t have to mean busy floral drapes and fussy furnishings. This is an elegantly appointed, self-contained two-storey farmhouse sleeping up to ten... Find out more

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Petersons Armidale 
Winery & Guesthouse

Petersons is a stunning country manor (c. 1911) operating as a luxurious boutique guesthouse. Every inch of the property has been thoughtfully appointed to maximise the tranquil ambience, with seven guest suites offering... Find out more

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Lily Pily Country House, Bellingen 115 km

The owners of this stylish B&B have spent seven years revegetating and securing wildlife corridors along the riparian zone here, planting some 4000 trees and 2000 reeds, resulting in an increase in bandicoots,... Find out more

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Banjo’s Bushland Retreat, Vacy 227 km

With three self-contained lodges of various sizes and a recreation room that includes an environmental centre, this eco-accredited resort keeps nature as its focus. Even the nine-hole minigolf course weaves around the... Find out more

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Thunderbolts Rock Park Area 28 km

82 km N of Tamworth (R) or 29 km S of Armidale (L) Small area just off the highway. GPS: S30 41.726 E151 28.157... Find out more

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Kentucky Rest Area 39 km

72 km N of Tamworth (L) or 39 km S of Armidale (R) Small area adjacent to the highway. Good shade. GPS: S30 45.189 E151 23.039... Find out more

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Walcha East Rest Area 55 km

159 km NW of Wauchope (R) or 5 km SE of Walcha (L) Large open area just off the highway. GPS: S31 00.477 E151 38.171  ... Find out more

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Woolbrook Rest Area 57 km

T/O 30 km W of Walcha (R) or 20 km E of Bendemeer (L) Large grassed area 1 kilometre off the highway on the riverbank. Limited shade. GPS: S30 55.010 E151 18.988  ... Find out more

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Apsley Falls Camp Area 61 km

T/O 145 km NW of Wauchope (R) or 19 km SE of Walcha (L) Large campground is situated 1 kilometre north of the highway in a pleasant bush setting near the falls in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. Good facilities and... Find out more

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Stoney Creek Rest Area 64 km

141 km NW of Wauchope (L) or 23 km SE of Walcha (R) Small area adjacent to the highway on the banks of the creek. GPS: S31 04.594 E151 46.655... Find out more

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Bendemeer Park Area 64 km

On the road into town Parking area just off the highway at the Memorial Park. Good facilities. Limited shade. GPS: S30 52.762 E151 09.459  ... Find out more

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Tia Falls Camp Area 76 km

T/O 129 km NW of Wauchope (R) or 35 km SE of Walcha (L) Small, secluded campground located 6 kilometres north of the highway in a pleasant forest setting near the falls in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. Good... Find out more

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Tia River Rest Area 77 km

128 km NW of Wauchope (L) or 36 km SE of Walcha (R) Small area adjacent to the highway. GPS: S31 11.271 E151 49.858... Find out more

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Celtic Country Rest Area 80 km

92 km N of Armidale (R) or 7 km S of Glen Innes (L) Large area adjacent to the highway. Good facilities. Limited shade. GPS: S29 47.244 E151 43.942  ... Find out more

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Swan Brook Rest Area 85 km

33 km E of Inverell (R) or 34 km W of Glen Innes (L) Large area just off the highway. Good facilities. GPS: S29 46.295 E151 26.149  ... Find out more

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Beardy Waters Woodland Park Area 87 km

6 km E of Glen Innes (R) or 154 km W of Grafton (L) Large grassed area well off the highway among the trees. Good facilities and shade. GPS: S29 43.568 E151 47.362... Find out more

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Beardy Waters Rest Area 94 km

10 km N of Glen Innes (L) or 82 km S of Tenterfield (R) Large grassed area well off the highway. Good facilities and some reasonable shade.  GPS: S29 39.7 59 E151 46.509... Find out more

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Runnymede Rest Area 95 km

4 km E of Inverell (L) or 63 km W of Glenn Innes (R) Large area adjacent to the highway. Good shade. GPS: S29 46.860 E151 08.788... Find out more

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Tamworth Park Area 96 km

East side of town Small parking area just off the highway. Good facilities. GPS: S31 06.528 E150 57.245... Find out more

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Airport Rest Area 101 km

9 km W of Tamworth (R) or 70 km E of Gunnedah (L) Large open area adjacent to the highway. Limited shade. GPS: S31 04.670 E150 51.042... Find out more

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Stockyard Creek Rest Area 107 km

81 km W of Wauchope (L) or 83 km SE of Walcha (R) Small area just off the highway surrounded by dense forest. Good shade and facilities. GPS: S31 24.10 E152 07.26  ... Find out more

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Bowling Alley Point Camp Area 107 km

T/O 82 km N of Scone (R) or 5 km E of Tamworth to Nundle (L) Large area on the shores of the reservoir 14 kilometres north of Nundle. Good facilities. Limited shade. GPS: S31 21.669 E151 08.186 ... Find out more

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Bells Rest Area 110 km

46 km E of Warialda (R) or 15 km W of Inverell (L) Large area adjacent to the highway. Good shade. GPS: S29 44.172 E150 57.717... Find out more

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Ponderosa Park Camp Area 113 km

T/O 82 km N of Scone (R) or 5 km E of Tamworth to Nundle (L) Large camp area in the forest 17 kilometres east of Nundle via Hanging Rock Road. Good facilities and shade. GPS: S31 27.817 E151 15.433  ... Find out more

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Swamp Creek Camp Area 115 km

T/O 82 km N of Scone (R) or 5 km E of Tamworth to Nundle (L) Grassed area on the riverbank 4 kilometres north of Nundle via Hanging Rock Road. Good facilities. Limited shade. NOTE: Access part unsealed. GPS: S31... Find out more

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Sheba Dams Camp Area 119 km

T/O 82 km N of Scone (R) or 5 km E of Tamworth to Nundle (L) Large secluded area on the shore of the dam 11 kilometres east of Nundle via Hanging Rock Road. Good facilities and shade. GPS: S31 29.890 E151 11.843 ... Find out more

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Paddys Rest Area 120 km

39 km N of Kempsey (L) or 45 km S of Urunga (R) Secluded area just off the highway. Good shade and facilities. GPS: S30 48.771 E152 52.247 ... Find out more

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Boundary Falls Camp Area 121 km

T/O 60 km E of Glen Innes (L) or 100 km W of Grafton (R) Small secluded campground 2 kilometres north of the highway in the forest of Gibraltar Range National Park. Good facilities and shade. NOTE: Unsealed access. ... Find out more

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Macksville Park Area 122 km

North side of the river Parking area just off the highway. GPS: S30 42.236 E152 55.238... Find out more

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Gumma Reserve Camp Area 128 km

T/O at Macksville Large campground located 7 kilometres east of the highway via Partridge Street, Wills Street and Gumma Road. NOTE: Access road part unsealed. GPS: S30 42.425 E152 58.999... Find out more

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Dumboy Creek Rest Area 128 km

25 km E of Warialda (R) or 36 km W of Inverell (L) Large area adjacent to the highway. Limited shade. GPS: S29 38.380 E150 47.835... Find out more

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Ellenborough Reserve Camp Area 128 km

T/O 34 km W of Wauchope (R) or 130 km E of Walcha (L) Large grassed area 1 kilometre north of the highway on the riverbank. Good facilities. Limited shade. GPS: S31 26.437 E152 27.678  ... Find out more

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Mulligans Hut Camp Area 129 km

T/O 69 km E of Glen Innes (R) or 91 km W of Grafton (L) Small secluded campground situated in a natural bush setting 9 kilometres south of the highway in Gibraltar Range National Park. Good facilities and shade. NOTE:... Find out more

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Teamsters Rest Camp Area 130 km

T/O 82 km N of Scone (R) or 5 km E of Tamworth to Nundle (L) Secluded area by the creek 14 km south of Nundle via Crawney Road. Good shade. NOTE: Part unsealed access. GPS: S31 33.399 E151 03.390... Find out more

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