Places worth discovering

Things to Do

Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.

Looking for a dated event? Explore Events

1689 places

Explore local places

St Albans Reserve — Image credit: Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre

National Parks and Reserves

St Albans Reserve

St Albans Reserve, located along the riverside on Wollombi Road, is a peaceful spot to unwind and escape the bustle of the city. It's a wonderful place to spend a weekend afternoon and enjoy a gentle stroll around the village. The reserve offers toilets, a wood barbecue, a playground and shelters. The playground was refurbished in 2023. You'll also find easy access to the sandy banks of the Macdonald River, perfect for exploring or simply relaxing. A visit to St Albans makes for an ideal day trip from Sydney, with the journey taking around 90 minutes from the city centre. Start by heading to the laid-back village of Wisemans Ferry, where you can cross the Hawkesbury River using one of the two free vehicular ferries. From there, enjoy a scenic 30-minute drive through a beautiful, secluded valley before arriving in the charming community of St Albans. Once you reach St Albans, take some time to relax by the Macdonald River at St Albans Reserve. Bring everything you'll need, as there are no shops in the area. Alternatively, you can enjoy a meal or drink at the historic Settlers Arms Inn, located just across from the reserve. You might even be tempted to stay overnight on your next visit and soak up their warm country hospitality.

St Albans NSW

0.2 km away

Womerah Range Trail — Image credit: Photo: Susan Davis/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Womerah Range Trail

Womerah Range trail is a challenging hiking, mountain biking route with scenic views through the dramatic sandstone landscape of Parr State Conservation Area. Explore the rugged and remote landscape of Parr State Conservation Area on foot, by mountain bike along Womerah Range trail. This steep and sometimes sandy track makes for a challenging experience, especially if you’re cycling. Enjoy scenic views of cliffs, rocky outcrops and dramatic gorges from this ridgeline track though Hawkesbury sandstone country. Stop for a picnic along the way and gaze out upon McDonald Valley and nearby Yengo National Park. If you’re hiking and want to complete the whole track in two days, why not do a car shuffle and begin at the main entrance off Webbs Creek Road and finish at Parr’s western entrance on Putty Road? Otherwise, you could hike in from either entrance, stay overnight at Heartbreak Hill campground then retrace your steps the next day. There are plenty of possibilities.

Webbs Creek NSW

8.1 km away

Devines Hill Loop — Image credit: NPWS

Natural Attractions

Devines Hill Loop

Head to Devines Hill loop in Dharug National Park, near Wisemans Ferry this weekend for a bike ride or walk along the historic World Heritage-listed Devines Hill loop. Fabulous views, great examples of convict-era engineering and a terrific hill to climb – the Devines Hill loop is the perfect bike ride. Squeeze a camera into your pack for the panoramic views and spectacular sandstone walls of Devines Hill on the Old Great North Road, one of the sites within the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Area. There are interpretive panels along the way, so be sure to hop off your bike to find out more about the history of this area. On the way back down, you’ll have to walk your bike, but that’ll give you more time to enjoy the beauty of the park. It also makes a good bushwalk if you don’t want to ride. Distance: 28 kilometre loop; Time suggested: 6 hours; Grade is Medium.

Wisemans Ferry NSW

8.6 km away

Old Great North Road - World Heritage Walk — Image credit: NPWS

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Old Great North Road - World Heritage Walk

Old Great North Road – World Heritage walk highlights a historic convict-built road with scenic river views, via Finchs Line, in Dharug National Park. Starting on Devines Hill loop, you'll pass the quarry, with historic graffiti carved in the rocks by convicts long gone. You can almost hear the sound of picks striking the blocks and the clinking of leg irons. Marvel at the craftsmanship of the beautifully preserved stonework that includes towering stone buttresses, culverts and even a curved wall. Unpack a picnic along the way and soak up the tranquil bush setting with scenic river views. Round off your day with a night under the stars at Mill Creek campground, only a short drive away. Download the Convict Road app to learn about the hardships of the convicts who constructed the road. The app features two walks, short films about the convict experience, and expert commentary. Distance: nine kilometre loop. Time suggested 3.5 hours - 4.5 hours. Grade Four.

Wisemans Ferry NSW

8.6 km away

Old Great North Road Bike Ride — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Old Great North Road Bike Ride

Mountain bike or walk the Old Great North Road. It’s an important piece of Australia’s history and part of the Convict Sites of Australia World Heritage Area. Dharug National Park contains part of the 43 kilometre stretch of the convict-built Old Great North Road. Built between 1826 and 1836, it contains the oldest surviving stone bridges in mainland Australia, including Clares Bridge and Circuit Flat Bridge. If you plan to walk the road, it’s best to allow two to three days for the whole track, although you can break it up into shorter sections for an easier walk. You can also ride the road - allow about a day to do so. There are plenty of places to stop along the way for a rest, birdwatching or picnicking.

Wisemans Ferry NSW

9.1 km away

The Great North Road Convict Trail

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

The Great North Road Convict Trail

The Great North Road Convict Trail, surveyed in 1825 and completed in 1836, was constructed using convict labour. Up to 720 convicts - some in chains - worked on the road, which spanned 264 kilometre, connecting Sydney to the settlements of the Hunter Valley. It features spectacular and beautifully preserved examples of stonework, including buttresses, culverts, bridges and twelve-metre high retaining walls. Only 43 kilometres of the road remains undeveloped and relatively intact. Running through and alongside Dharug National Park and Yengo National Park, this section has been named the Old Great North Road. It goes from Wisemans Ferry in the south to Mount Manning (near Bucketty) in the north, and includes the oldest surviving stone bridges in mainland Australia. The road is closed to motor vehicles but makes a great walk over two or three days - or an exhilarating day's cycle.

Wisemans Ferry NSW

9.6 km away

Wiseman's Ferry

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Wiseman's Ferry

Wiseman’s Ferry is the oldest ferry crossing still in operation in New South Wales. The river settlement of Wiseman’s Ferry is located in the heart of the Hawkesbury River around 60 kilometres north-west of Sydney CBD. Surrounded by beautiful national parks Wisemans Ferry is a rustic village on one of Australia’s most famous waterways. Take one of the two ferries available across the sparkling Hawkesbury River to explore St Albans, the Hunter Valley and Gosford. Filled with Aboriginal and European history, the area’s heritage shops and famous pubs are a great spot to relax on a getaway from the city. The nearby Dharug National Park contains 16 kilometres of the convict-built Old Great North Road that once connected Sydney and Newcastle. Visitors can walk the first 1.6-kilometre section of the old road, or stroll along the 1.6-kilometre Grass Tree Circuit - a good walk for families – or picnic at Mill Creek or Hazel Dell. The park is also a popular destination for mountain biking (bikes must be walked up Devines Hill), while car-based and small-caravan camping is available at Mill Creek. Backpack camping is permitted at Ten Mile Hollow.

Wisemans Ferry NSW

10 km away

Dharug National Park

Natural Attractions

Dharug National Park

Explore the World Heritage-listed Old Great North Road, go camping, mountain biking or canoeing at Dharug National Park near Wisemans Ferry, northwest of Sydney. Dharug National Park covers rugged bushland just north of the Hawkesbury river, with dramatic sandstone cliffs and a variety of natural habitats. It’s the perfect place to escape to on a daytrip or for a weekend getaway. There is loads to explore; take a walk, mountain bike or guided tour into history along the Old Great North Road - World Heritage walk; built by up to 720 convicts between 1826 and 1836. Download the Convict Road app before heading out to accompany you along the track. Take a canoe or kayak out to explore the Hawkesbury river or camp out under the stars at Mill creek or Ten Mile Hollow campground. The park is bursting with bird and animal life, you’re likely to see gang-gang cockatoos, satin bowerbirds and green catbirds on the mountain slopes and, if you’re camping overnight, take a torch to look for yellow-bellied and greater gliders and sugar gliders.

Gunderman NSW

13 km away

Mill Creek picnic area

Natural Attractions

Mill Creek picnic area

This lovely grassy picnic area is the perfect place to stop to enjoy the peace and beauty of Dharug National Park. Set up your picnic at one of the tables, there are wood barbecues available at the adjacent campground if you’d like to cook. When you’ve polished off a tasty feast, stretch out under the canopy and listen to the bellbirds and kookaburras while the kids have a run around or if you’re feeling energetic, set off on the Grass Tree circuit. If you’re interested in Australian history, set off on foot or on your bike along the Devines Hill loop to explore the World Heritage-listed convict-built Old Great North Road.

Gunderman NSW

14 km away

11 Kilometre Walking Track — Image credit: NSW Government

Natural Attractions

11 Kilometre Walking Track

11 kilometre walking track is near Wisemans Ferry and follows a steep mountain ridge through lush gullies, past clear running creeks in Dharug National Park. This rough track will really get your heart racing with several steep climbs along the way. 11 kilometre walking track is an exhilarating challenge for adventure seekers. Experienced and fit bushwalkers might be able to finish the track in four hours but if you prefer to drop the pace then it’s a good idea to start 11 kilometre walking track early in the day to enjoy the scenic views and surrounding bushland. Catch your breath on a creek bank and take advantage of birdwatching along the way as lewins honeyeaters are bound to be seen in the trees, along with gang gang cockatoos. You might also spot goannas on the track and wildflowers like waratahs, red Gymea lilies and flowering heath – are abundant in spring.

Gunderman NSW

14 km away

Grass Tree Circuit — Image credit: Photo: Nick Cubbin

Natural Attractions

Grass Tree Circuit

Pack a picnic and get the family together for a great day out exploring Dharug National Park along Grass Tree circuit. This easy, undulating walking track starts near Mill Creek picnic area and meanders through rainforest and grass tree forest. It’s a family-friendly bushwalking option near the Hawkesbury. Look up into the trees for cackling kookaburras, tiny fairy wrens and honeyeaters. This is also home to the shy lyrebird, although you’ll have to be quiet or you’ll scare them into the undergrowth. There’s also a chance you’ll see a goanna or two, sunning themselves on nearby rocks. If you’ve worked up an appetite, there are plenty of spots to spread out a blanket, spark up the barbecue or enjoy a leisurely picnic.

Gunderman NSW

14 km away

Dubbo Gully Loop Trail — Image credit: Photo: Nick Cubbin

Natural Attractions

Dubbo Gully Loop Trail

Definitely not for the fainthearted, this challenging steep track is ideal for adventurous bushwalkers and mountain bikers who love to test themselves. Dubbo Gully trail leads through rugged and remote bushland along a section of World Heritage-listed Old Great North Road - World Heritage walk, built by convicts between 1826 and 1836. Starting at Mangrove Mountain, you’ll wind through Dubbo Gully passing open fields and a historic old cemetery. Arriving at Old Great North Road, look for Clares Bridge, the second oldest bridge on the mainland. With a flat grassy area Ten Mile Hollow campground is a nice spot for a picnic lunch along the way, or you might be tempted to pitch your tent and spend a night under the stars. There’s plenty to see while bushwalking along Dubbo Gully loop trail. It is a clearly signposted track with diverse landscapes which come alive in the spring with cream flowering sydney red gums and striking red gymea lilies. You might even see a swamp wallaby hopping across the path.

Mangrove Mountain NSW

15 km away

Parr State Conservation Area

National Parks and Reserves

Parr State Conservation Area

Whether you're a multi-day hiker, keen mountain biker or 4WD fanatic - or aspiring to be one - Parr State Conservation Area is a great place to visit and explore the wilder side of Hawkesbury sandstone country. Womerah Range trail allows you to traverse the area between McDonald Valley and Putty Road and, along the way, enjoy scenic views back across the valley and adjoining Yengo National Park. Heartbreak Hill campground offers a remote camping location set within a peaceful setting of bracken fern and tall eucalypts. Lyrebirds, kookaburras and goannas are commonly seen (and heard) around the site. For those who'd rather not go it alone, join one of our guided Discovery walks, talks or tours held throughout the park. Getabout Adventures also offers informative, fun and educational 4WD tours and training on location in Parr.

Colo NSW

16 km away

Popran National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Popran National Park

Take a step back in time and visit the incredible Popran National Park. From hiking to mountain biking, and horse riding to fishing, there's plenty to do in this iconic Australian setting. Boasting 4km of Hawkesbury river foreshore, you can paddle through the mangroves, enjoy a spot of fishing and smell the coastal banksia. The park is steeped in Aboriginal heritage so you can't help but get in touch with the history of the land. Popran National Park, on the Central Coast, is just an hour and a half north of Sydney, so it makes for an excellent daytrip or weekend getaway.

Glenworth Valley NSW

22 km away

Hominy Creek Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Hominy Creek Walking Track

Go walking along Hominy Creek walking track in Popran National Park to the picturesque crystal clear waters of Emerald Pool. Branching off Mount Olive trail, Hominy Creek walking track is a picturesque detour which would make any postcard jealous. The track is lined with ferns and partially shaded by majestic eucalypts, so it’s the ideal place to stroll and also to have a picnic. Along the track, you'll have the opportunity to stop and witness the beauty of Emerald Pool. The areas around this creek are picturesque, and it's the perfect habitat for the green and golden bell frog, as well as the red-crowned toadlet.

Glenworth Valley NSW

22 km away

Mount Olive Trail — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Mount Olive Trail

Starting at Ironbark picnic area, Mount Olive trail is the ideal way to see magnificent views of Glenworth Valley and Popran National Park. Whether you're walking, mountain biking or horse riding, the songs of kookaburras and black cockatoos will encourage you along the way. Once you're on the trail, you can take a short detour to Mount Olive lookout - although this is not a long walk, it's a steep climb as you approach the summit. But once you're there, take a deep breath, and enjoy the superb views over surrounding forests and distant ridgelines. The trail continues past Mount Olive for 3.5 kilometres for more spectacular views over Hawkesbury River.

Glenworth Valley NSW

23 km away

Ironbark picnic area

Natural Attractions

Ironbark picnic area

Ironbark picnic area in the Popran National Park is the starting and finishing point for many of the park's walking, mountain biking and horse riding tracks. Although it has limited facilities, it's a convenient and shady spot to relax before or after your outdoor adventure. Popran National Park on the NSW central coast protects Aboriginal sites and offers great walking, kayaking, mountain biking, horse riding and fishing.

Glenworth Valley NSW

23 km away

248 Trail — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

248 Trail

Aptly named 248 trail because it's 248 metres above sea level, this is a fantastic trail for mountain biking, horse riding and walking. The ride is relatively short so it’s a great one for kids. If you need a break along the way, there are areas to rest and admire Ironbark Creek and the surrounding forests. Starting with dry open woodland, it soon transforms into a forest of ironbarks and imposing blue gums. Keep your eyes open for wildlife among the trees – you are bound to catch a glimpse of some of park’s many glossy black cockatoos.

Glenworth Valley NSW

23 km away

Mount Olive lookout

Natural Attractions

Mount Olive lookout

Mount Olive lookout is only a short walk from Ironbark picnic area in Popran National Park and offers scenic views over Popran Creek. It’s a short, steep climb to the lookout, but you’ll be rewarded with great views when you arrive. Besides the wonderful views, make sure to look for our native wildlife, like honeyeaters, spinebills and glossy black cockatoos. Spring is an amazing time of the year to visit, with magnificent wildflowers coming into bloom.

Glenworth Valley NSW

23 km away

Dr Thomas Fiaschi Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Dr Thomas Fiaschi Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Dr Thomas Fiaschi who was distinguished military doctor and a pioneering surgeon, noted for his breakthrough work of using of antisepsis in surgery.

Ebenezer NSW

23 km away

Pick Your Own Sunflowers at The Bloom Barn Farm — Image credit: Bloom Barn Farm

Agritourism

Pick Your Own Sunflowers at The Bloom Barn Farm

Get ready for a day filled with sunshine, smiles, and endless blooms! Stroll through vibrant sunflower fields, capture the perfect shot, and take home a fresh-picked bundle of blooms! Perfect for all ages – bring family, and friends, or come solo to enjoy a peaceful day in nature. Bring a picnic, as there is ample space for everyone to relax and enjoy. Secateurs Provided: Cutters are included with your booking for easy picking. The farm is located just a 30-minute drive north of Hornsby and one hour south of Newcastle.

Peats Ridge NSW

25 km away

Toddler in orange orchard

Agritourism

Meliora Farm

Meliora Farm is located at Peats Ridge on the NSW Central Coast. The farm was established in 1925, and the family has been farming here ever since. Come and experience a pick-your-own fruit adventure. Avocados and a variety of citrus, including oranges, lemons and lime,s are available to be picked during the harvest season. The farm opens three weekends every month from June to November. Come and enjoy some outdoor fun on this working farm. Bring a picnic as there is plenty of space to sit and take in the scenery. It is a fun immersive experience to share with family and friends.

Peats Ridge NSW

25 km away

FRUIT PICKING — Image credit: TANG MEDIA

Agritourism

Canoelands Orchard

Canoelands Orchard, located just one hour from Sydney's centre, is a seasonal fruit-picking orchard offering a variety of experiences. Visitors can enjoy fruit picking, tractor rides, animal petting and feeding, a café, a picnic area, and a small playground. The orchard provides tours that include bee education and presentations suitable for all ages, technical farm tours, excursions, functions, kids' parties, high tea, Devonshire tea, Busy Bee workshops, farmer-for-a-day experiences, seniors discounts, orchard picnics, grazing boxes, sandwich boxes, dessert boxes, and more. The major harvest season at Canoelands Orchard spans from mid-October to late December, featuring nectarines, peaches, plums, blueberries, and strawberries. Additionally, the orchard grows apples, pomegranates, tomatoes, eggplants, persimmons, figs, tamarillos, feijoas, mandarins, oranges, lemons, limes, and finger limes, ensuring there is something to pick most of the year. Canoelands Orchard also boasts a charming boutique shop that sells highly rated, self-produced Pa's Honey, along with various jams, sauces, and chutneys made from their own produce. It is a fantastic destination for families, groups, and people of all ages.

Canoelands NSW

25 km away

Glenworth Valley Wilderness Adventures Horse Riding

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Glenworth Valley Horse Riding

Regarded as one of Australia's leading horse riding centres, Glenworth Valley has over 200 quality horses catering to riders of all abilities. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff will select a horse to suit your riding ability, from gentle horses for beginners to more challenging horses for experienced riders. Individual instruction is given to all riders prior to departure, and roving supervisors are on hand to assist if required. Visitors to Glenworth Valley have the option of free-range riding without a guide (experienced riders only) or guided riding (suitable for all abilities). Rides are available for two, four, or six hours and are suitable for ages seven and over. Alternatively, join their Cattle Drive Ride and experience the unique thrill of mustering a roaming cattle herd on horseback, before unwinding with a delicious complimentary barbecue lunch at Glenworth Valley's homestead — perfect for sharing your new stories over ice-cold drinks. Their Gourmet Picnic Ride offers a more laid-back riding experience, finishing with a freshly prepared picnic lunch enjoyed under the shade of swaying gum trees. Horse riding lessons are also available for children and adults. Lead pony and horse rides are available for children aged three to twelve, with 30-minute rides offered on weekends and one-hour rides available mid-week.

Glenworth Valley NSW

25 km away

What is happening now?

Search dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.

Planning by place?

Use Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.