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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

3.9 km away

Ultimate Wild Cat Experience — Image credit: Wild Cat Conservation Centre

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Wild Cat Conservation Centre

Established in 2016 under the leadership of Director Ben Britton, the Wild Cat Conservation Centre stands proudly in Wilberforce, Australia, as a pioneering force in understanding and protecting the smaller wild cat species. Nestled in the Hawkesbury valley, just an hour's journey northwest of Sydney, the centre is an oasis for conservation efforts focused on wild cats from around the globe. Notably, they proudly run the only conservation breeding program for Clouded Leopards and Cheetahs in Sydney. Visitors to the centre can learn about the conservation breeding and rewilding programs and research efforts to conserve these smaller though enigmatic wild cat species. By joining them, you become a vital part of their mission to safeguard these remarkable creatures!

Wilberforce NSW

9.9 km away

Cattai National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Cattai National Park

Cattai National Park is a fantastic place for a family daytrip or a weekend getaway. There are two parts to the park: the popular Cattai Farm area, flanked by the mighty Hawkesbury River, and the quieter Mitchell Park area. Each section offers a fantastic experience in the great outdoors; Cattai Farm is great if you're looking for a weekend camping trip, some canoeing or a big family barbecue. There's also plenty of space for games and for children to ride bikes. History buffs will be interested to know that this parcel of land is an intact land grant given to a First Fleet settler. Be sure to stop by the historic sites within this part of the park. Mitchell Park is more secluded, so it's the place to be if you're looking for a relaxing afternoon in the great outdoors. It's also a good spot for fishing - you might catch carp or bass. If you feel like stretching your legs, there's 5 kilometres of walking tracks that takes you through native vegetation, including scribbly gum forest and tall bloodwoods.

Cattai NSW

10 km away

Cattai picnic area

Natural Attractions

Cattai picnic area

You'll find plenty to keep you occupied at picturesque Cattai picnic area, located near Cattai campground. There's plenty of grass to lay out your picnic rug, or you can set up in one of the large picnic shelters if they are free. You can book one of the seven picnic shelters ahead of time they make a great place for birthday parties, family celebrations and reunions. When you've polished off your barbecue or picnic feast, there's plenty to explore in this part of the park. It's an easy walk to the historic homestead where you can take a peek into Australian history, and there's great canoeing and fishing to be had along the Hawkesbury River so remember to bring your canoe, kayak or rod. Plus, there is a tonne of room for children to run and ride around the picnic area. What more could you ask for on a family day out?

Cattai NSW

11 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

11 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

11 km away

Cattai Homestead and historic farm buildings — Image credit: NSW Government

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Cattai Homestead and historic farm buildings

Cattai National Park is made up of land originally granted to First Fleet assistant surgeon Thomas Arndell. Today, the park contains a number of historic colonial buildings associated with generations of the Arndell family who farmed along the Hawkesbury. There are two clusters of interesting historic sites within the park to explore. There's an early colonial dwelling, the 1820's National Trust-listed Cattai Homestead that features convict-built dry stone walls. There's also a dairy and grain silo complex built in the 1930's, just prior to the area becoming a recreation ground. Roam around to explore the area's fascinating farming heritage. You'll find signage to fill you in on the history, along with machinery similar to that used by the Arndells displayed in neighbouring fields. There's plenty of other activities at Cattai National Park while you're here take a walk from the silos to the Hawkesbury River lookout, or enjoy a barbecue lunch at one of the picnic areas.

Cattai NSW

11 km away

Mitchell Park picnic area — Image credit: OEH

Natural Attractions

Mitchell Park picnic area

Mitchell Park picnic area is a great place to pause for a bite and take in the bushland scenery of Cattai National Park particularly after working up a sweat on one of the park's great walking tracks. Cattai Creek is a great spot for fishing, so you can try your hand at catching some lunch. Nearby the creek, you'll find picnic shelters and plenty of grass to lay out a picnic rug. If you're feeling energetic after lunch, you could try some canoeing or kayaking along the creek, head off on another walk or simply relax with a book or your thoughts.

Maraylya NSW

12 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

12 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

12 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

12 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

12 km away

Wilberforce memorial — Image credit: Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre

Parks and Gardens

Wilberforce Park

Wilberforce Park is a place of state heritage significance in the Hawkesbury as it is a great surviving example of the Great Squares that were created in Australia 200 years ago. If you're visiting the area, this is the perfect place to stop, take a break, and stretch your legs. The park boasts large, mature shade trees and features seating areas with covered shelters and a bbq. It also includes a children's playground, making it an ideal spot for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors. A short stroll away you will find the Wilberforce shops. A popular feature for history buffs is the location of the park as it is adjacent to the historic Macquarie Schoolhouse (1819) and the appealing St John's Anglican Church (1859). These are highlighted in the Hawkesbury River Towns Heritage Highlights guides available at Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre. The Park has a war memorial. Conflicts remembered at the site include the Great War from 1914-18 and the Vietnam War. You will find Wilberforce Park located on George Road at Wilberforce and bounded by George and Macquarie Roads.

Wilberforce NSW

12 km away

Longneck Lagoon Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Longneck Lagoon Walking Track

Longneck Lagoon walking track, a track which hugs banks of the small permanent freshwater wetland, has one very big attraction: birds. Over 140 species have been recorded at the park, with at least 42 species using the wetland on a regular basis (seven of which are protected by international treaty). Herons and egrets swoop overhead. Surrounded by pleasant forest and offering a tranquil place perfect for walking with children, Longneck Lagoon walking track lets visitors engage with the area’s wildlife both safely and respectfully. Bring your camera and binoculars: as you walk beside the water, expect to see ducks, grebes, spoonbills and cormorants. There are plenty of good vantage points on this easy four kilometre walk. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the undergrowth too: some birds live down below in a thorn bush native to the area. An education centre elaborates on the significance of Longneck Lagoon, but to extend your visit even further, head to the southern precinct of the park to explore Scheyville Camp precinct stop here for a picnic continue along Migrant Heritage walk.

Pitt Town NSW

13 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

14 km away

The Australiana Pioneer Village

Amusement and Theme Parks

The Australiana Pioneer Village

The Australiana Pioneer Village is a New South Wales Heritage Listed Open Air Museum set on 28 acres of beautifully maintained Picnic Grounds at Wilberforce, NSW. Many local buildings were saved from demolition in the late 1960s, and early 1970s and relocated to the site They now form an 1810 Village Streetscape with a Church, Shearing Shed, Blacksmith's Shop, Post Office, Railway Station, Post Office, Bank and Rose Cottage ( the oldest timber dwelling in Australia ) and houses that the Hawkesbury Pioneers lived in. There are shops within some of the buildings and we have The Oxboro Inn and The Damper Camp for refreshments You can ride the Pioneer Express Train or the Village Express Train, have a Tractor Hay Ride, join the Animal Feed Walk, have a School Lesson 1800's style in the original Marsden Park School, help make butter and homemade lemonade, do the washing in our old Laundry and lots, lots more There is so much to do, see, enjoy and learn about life and history at The Village The Village is run by a group of knowledgeable and dedicated Volunteers and opens every Sunday plus Wednesdays in the NSW School Holidays School Excursions and Bus Trips can be booked as well as booking for Wedding Ceremonies, Photography and Filming

Wilberforce NSW

14 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

15 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

15 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

15 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

15 km away

Scheyville National Park — Image credit: NSW Government

National Parks and Reserves

Scheyville National Park

Some national parks are about more than just the natural environment; they're about us. Scheyville is one of those parks. This gem of a park also has a rich and surprising cultural history that touches more than a quarter of a million Australians. Within its current boundaries, a visitor will find the remnants of everything from a cooperative farm to a famous migrant camp. For many, this was the first stop on their journey to becoming an Australian. You might be a descendant of a Dreadnought Boy or of somebody who trained here to fight in the Vietnam War. Indeed, the cultural significance of the park is so wide-reaching that it has been placed on the NSW State Heritage Register. Spend a morning birdwatching or wandering the grasslands on your own horse, then explore the ruined and restored buildings clustered in the southern precinct of the park. Visiting Scheyville is a varied experience, uniting the best of the natural world with the history of our social world.

Scheyville NSW

16 km away

McQuade Park - pond — Image credit: Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre

Parks and Gardens

McQuade Park Windsor

McQuade Park was laid out by Governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1810 as the town square for Windsor, positioned in front of the historic St Matthew's Church. Today, it is a spacious and picturesque park in the heart of Windsor, featuring a large sports field, a heritage rotunda, picnic shelters, and public toilet facilities. A scenic pond at one end of the park adds to its charm and is a popular backdrop for wedding photography, as well as a peaceful spot to relax and watch the resident ducks. History enthusiasts will appreciate the prominent statue of Governor Macquarie, located opposite one of the Hawkesbury's most significant heritage landmarks, St Matthew's Anglican Church and Cemetery. Together, these historic sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's early European settlement. With ample onsite parking and plenty of open space, McQuade Park is an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or simply enjoying Windsor's rich history and natural beauty.

Windsor NSW

16 km away

Scheyville Horse Riding Trails — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Scheyville Horse Riding Trails

Canter, trot or gallop through the 12 kilometres of horse riding trails in Scheyville National Park, which are situated in a picturesque, diverse woodland setting. Most riders find it easy to check out all of the trails here within a day, riding at a leisurely pace through forest and shrub, along open grasslands, and across creek crossings. Overall, the trails make for an easy, relaxed ride on reasonably flat terrain. The trails are popular all year around as there’s plenty of shade for those hot summer days, and when the weather is cooler, you can make the most of the sunshine riding through grassland areas. In spring, the grounds are blanketed in beautiful native wildflowers. Keep your eyes open for eastern grey kangaroos and the occasional red-necked wallaby in the early morning or late afternoon.

Scheyville NSW

17 km away

Migrant Heritage Walk — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Migrant Heritage Walk

Step out of your car and into the past. This short walk, perfect for walking with children and for visitors with ties to the local area, pulls you back through the fascinating history of Scheyville. Whether you make it a stop on your larger car tour, or come here specifically, there’s much to hold your interest in Scheyville Camp Precinct. Scheyville has a rich heritage of migrant settlement: between 1949 and 1964, up to 1500 people a year, from more than 22 countries, passed through the camp. Scheyville was their first glimpse of a new life in Australia, and visitors can see what they saw in structures like the Dreadnought dining hall and dormitory buildings, now under restoration. Other buildings on Migrant Heritage walk are waiting for repairs or reduced to outlines, but 12 interpretive panels, with text and photographs, help bring the site back to life. Visitors with a direct connection to the site can also register on the Scheyville database to be kept up-to-date on activities around the park.

Scheyville NSW

17 km away

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