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Skate park

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Canowindra Skate Park

Canowindra Skatepark is a concrete haven for skateboarders, BMX riders, and scooter enthusiasts alike. The park's main attraction is its smooth surface, providing an ideal environment for riders of all skill levels. Designed to cater to various disciplines, Canowindra Skatepark boasts an open bowl that challenges skaters with its steel coping and transitions. Additionally, the park features an array of street-style obstacles, adding diversity to the skating experience. From ramps and rails to ledges and banks, the park offers a well-rounded terrain for riders to showcase their skills. The park's inclusive design makes it a favourite among scooter rollers, BMX riders, and skateboarders.

Canowindra NSW

0.5 km away

Canowindra Swinging Bridge — Image credit: Cabonne Council

Landmarks and Buildings

Canowindra Belubula Riverwalk

Discover the beauty of Canowindra with the Belubula Riverwalk, a scenic and peaceful trail that winds along the banks of the Belubula River and across the Swinging Bridge. This easy, family-friendly walk is perfect for those looking to enjoy the natural landscape, spot local wildlife, and learn about the area's rich history. The pathway is well-maintained, making it accessible for walkers of all ages and abilities. Along the way, take in stunning river views, listen to the sounds of native birdlife, and appreciate the serenity of this charming country town. Informative signage provides insights into the region’s Aboriginal heritage, early European settlement, and the unique ecosystems that thrive in and around the river. The Riverwalk is an excellent spot for a leisurely stroll, a morning jog, or a relaxing break while exploring Canowindra. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river or extend your visit by exploring the town’s boutique shops, cafés, and the renowned Age of Fishes Museum. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a quiet place to unwind, the Canowindra Belubula Riverwalk offers a delightful experience in the heart of the Central West.

Canowindra NSW

1.3 km away

Historic Canowindra Main Street

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Historic Canowindra Main Street

Travel back in time to the beautiful historic town of Canowindra. A stroll through the historic township is like stepping in to a period movie dotted with the wonders of modern living. Beautifully restored guesthouses, country pubs and quaint shops filled with old wares are nestled alongside art galleries, cafes with great coffee and designer clothes and homewares shops. It’s a destination worth driving to: Canowindra is just 33 kilometres north of Cowra (about a 20 minute drive).

Canowindra NSW

1.3 km away

FRont view of the Age of Fishes Museum Canowindra — Image credit: Age of Fishes Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Age of Fishes Museum

The Age of Fishes Museum is located in Canowindra in the heart of the beautiful Central West of New South Wales and is the number one tourist attraction in the Canowindra area. It is located on the edge of town in a flat and accessible area with easy parking. Imagine a world ruled by fish! Long before the dinosaurs the mighty rivers of the Central West teamed with bizarre ancient fishes - fish with armoured shells, fish with lungs, and huge predators with jaws like crocodiles. Thousands of their fossils were found at Canowindra and give a unique glimpse into the Devonian Period - the 'Age of Fishes'. The Museum displays many of these beautiful fossils together with live aquarium displays and wonderful recreations of life in the Devonian period, 360 million years ago. The Age of Fishes Museum offers two permanent exhibitions, an education hub, a picnic area, and a geological time walk set in beautiful gardens. Bring a picnic or barbecue on the peaceful grounds while the kids play on the giant game boards. Groups are welcome- please book in advance for groups of 10 or more. There is also a well-stocked shop on site which includes local honey and produce as well as a huge range of fossils, educational items and gifts.

Canowindra NSW

1.3 km away

Age of Fishes Museum Canowindra

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Age of Fishes Museum Canowindra

The Age of Fishes Museum and Visitors Centre is located in the heart of Canowindra, in the Central West of NSW. Imagine a world ruled by fish! Long before dinosaurs roamed the Earth, the mighty rivers of the Central West teamed with bizarre ancient fishes - armoured fishes, fishes with lungs, and some huge predators with jaws like crocodiles. Thousands of their fossils were found at Canowindra and give us a unique glimpse into life during the Devonian Period - the 'Age of Fishes'. A chance discovery in 1955 revealed an extensive fossil bed dating from the Devonian Period. This 360-370 million-year-old fossil deposit contains the remains of thousands of freshwater fish. Many were new to science. The best of the fossils so far recovered are now on public display at the Age of Fishes Museum. The Age of Fishes Museum offers visitors an exciting range of permanent exhibitions and activities, occasional travelling exhibitions and well-presented additional facilities, such as a well-stocked gift shop, a regional Visitor Information Centre, as well as shaded picnic tables, a timeline walk, giant board games and fossil dig pits for young visitors.

Canowindra NSW

1.3 km away

Canowindra Historical Society Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Canowindra Historical Society Museum

The Canowindra Historical Museum depicts the development of Canowindra from the 1840s frontier township on the Belubula River to its growth as a rural centre. Horse-drawn vehicles, vintage farm machinery, textiles, household memorabilia and a genuine 200 year old slab hut and a shearing shed recall the pioneering days. There is also a collection of vintage dresses and textiles that can be viewed by prior arrangement. There is a very large collection of photographs, some of which are over 140 years old. Whilst the museum is not a family history society, the museum holds extensive records on many families associated with the area dating back to the 1850s. They also can provide online access to the digitised issues of the Canowindra Star newspaper 1900 to 1969. Bus tours and school groups are welcome by appointment, and teachers can plan visits to link with units of study.

Canowindra NSW

1.4 km away

Cranes I | detail | Acrylic on Canvas | 152cm x 75cm | Commissioned work. — Image credit: Melissa Barber

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Melissa Barber Galleries

The Melissa Barber Galleries is the gallery, cafe and shop of independent Canowindra artist Melissa Barber. It is the immersive experience of her paintings, incorporating the culinary, cultural, musical and aromatic influences in her work. Her work is renowned for its combination of the use of gold and silver, a detailed, jewel-like quality and photographic realism. The union of the ornamental and the historical is a favourite theme, accompanied by the influence of Chinese, Japanese, Islamic and Byzantine art. The cafe, renowned for the cakes which are made by Melissa, often features Middle Eastern cakes, baklava, and homemade Indian sweets, not to mention sticky chai, peppermint tea and fabulous coffee. Scented candles, bath salts, body scrubs, Turkish Delight, sugared almonds and handmade chocolates are some of the treasures to be found in the shop. Everything links back to her paintings and their influences. Melissa's work is predominantly exhibited at her gallery in Canowindra and occasionally with other commercial galleries with whom she collaborates. Her paintings are in collections throughout Australia and internationally.

Canowindra NSW

1.5 km away

Elizabeth Jane (Bessie) Robinson Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Elizabeth Jane (Bessie) Robinson 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 Elizabeth Jane (Bessie) Robinson who was a businesswoman who drove the development of the central west town of Canowindra and advocated for quality public education. Visit the blue plaque at The Old Vic Inn, 56 Gaskill St, Canowindra NSW 2804 and scan the QR code there to learn more.

Canowindra NSW

1.6 km away

Neville Forest by David Isbester — Image credit: David Isbester

Galleries, Museums and Collections

David Isbester Gallery

David Isbester is a local artist living in Canowindra. His Canowindra gallery showcases his latest works as well as offering selected paintings as limited edition prints. His work is dynamic, broad and colourful and he strives to capture the Australian light and landscape that he loves. Much of David's recent work is painted from life, 'en plein air' following the tradition of the impressionists with a distinctive Australian flavour. All works are for sale and the exhibition constantly evolves as paintings are sold and new works are created. The gallery is also the base from where David launches his painting trips in his old Land Rover in search of subjects to paint.

Canowindra NSW

1.6 km away

Finns Store, Canowindra — Image credit: Destination NSW

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Finns Store

Finns Store is a Central West destination in itself. Providing a modern take on clothing, furniture, jewellery and local artwork, Finns Store is situated in the faithfully restored TJ Finn building; a landmark in the heritage listed ‘bendy’ main street of Canowindra. The store is also renowned for serving local wines, regional roasted coffee and bountiful food.

Canowindra NSW

1.7 km away

Main street view of building

Parks and Gardens

Perennialle Plants Nursery, Cafe and Emporium

Situated in a beautifully restored heritage building on Canowindra's historic main street, Perennialle Plants is a unique destination and a must-see in Canowindra. The building houses an extensive emporium offering a carefully curated selection of some of the finest products on the market, including an enviable selection of local and regional produce. The cafe offers the finest coffee, perfectly complimented with delicious pastries, other treats and gourmet toasted sandwiches. The nursery stocks plants grown by them from their unique collection of rare, frost and dry-tolerant plants. If you find something you like, but can't carry it home, they can easily post it to you with their experienced mail order service. They post orders received through their website a few times per week.

Canowindra NSW

1.7 km away

Canowindra Swimming Pool — Image credit: Cabonne Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Canowindra Swimming Pool

The Canowindra Swimming Pool is located on Gaskil Street, Canowindra next door to the Canowindra Caravan Park. During the swimming season, the pool is open every day for your enjoyment. Have a picnic on the grounds or buy something from the kiosk. Sit back, relax and enjoy a day of fun.

Canowindra NSW

1.8 km away

Mount Nangar lookout — Image credit: NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Mount Nangar lookout

As well as giving you terrific scenic views across the farming country of central west New South Wales, spending time at Mount Nangar lookout offers a sense of the importance of this conserved area of bushland. The wooded hills and ridge make a dramatic contrast with the endless fields and provide an important refuge for the resident kangaroos, wallabies, bats and birdlife. You can take Mount Nangar hiking track down to Dripping Rock from the lookout, through valleys of mugga ironbark and red stringybark woodlands. In spring, you'll see a variety of delicate wildflowers and while birdwatching, you may catch sight of peregrine or brown falcons and wedge-tailed eagles soaring above the ridge line. Bring your camera the scenery is varied and the views dramatic.

Eugowra NSW

19 km away

Nangar National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Nangar National Park

Amid the wide open spaces of central west New South Wales, you'll find the spectacular scenery of Nangar National Park, dominated by the magnificent peak of Mount Nangar to the north. The park's beautiful wooded hills, easily accessible from Escort Way, create an ideal environment for picnicking, bushwalking and camping. Whether you love wildflowers, birdwatching, photography or gazing up at a night sky brilliant with stars, there's plenty at Nangar to feed the soul. Autumn through to spring offers plenty of fresh and clear days to take long walks, and as the days become warmer, the land comes alive with colour. Don't miss Terarra Creek, lined with the gorgeous pink honey-myrtle. Keep your camera handy for kangaroos, wallabies, bats, peregrine falcons and wedge-tailed eagles, as well as the breathtaking cliff line and views from Mount Nangar .

Eugowra NSW

19 km away

Our gorgeous shop front

Shopping and Markets

Timber Tales

Timber Tales is a coffee and giftware shop on the main street of Cargo NSW in the original General Store. Unique and quirky gifts for children to adults set amongst an inviting, comfortable and charming historic building. The ideal stop for your coffee fix on the way to work, morning tea or a quick bite to eat with seating available on the verandah, a spot in front of the fire in winter or perhaps a comfy couch is more to your liking. This quiet town certainly has the best local coffee has to offer and lots of goodies to have as a treat. Do yourself a favour and take the time to drive through this town!

Cargo NSW

19 km away

Mount Nangar Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: A Lavender/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Mount Nangar Walking Track

Mount Nangar walking track to the lookout takes you bushwalking through varied landscapes to scenic views over Nangar National Park and surrounding farmlands in search of wildlife and wildflowers. For the best view in the park, take Mount Nangar walking track from Dripping Rock out across open country and then up a gentle hill. Following the valley through mugga ironbark and red stringybark woodlands, you’ll come to the plateau of Mount Nangar, where you’re surrounded by mountain heathland. Mount Nangar lookout offers views over open grazing country – on a clear day you can see to Mount Canobolas on the outskirts of Orange. Along the escarpment, birdwatchers may see peregrine or brown falcons and wedge-tailed eagles. As well as fabulous scenic views and wildlife, there is a lovely variety of plants on this walk. Look out for rusty spider flower and nodding blue lily. You may also see delicate orchids – take care not to disturb these beautiful flowers.

Eugowra NSW

21 km away

Mount Murga Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: A Lavender/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Mount Murga Walking Track

If you’re reasonably fit, why not take on Mount Murga walking track? It’s a varied and attractive walk up the side of Mount Murga and along the ridgeline to the plateau and lookout at the top. From here, you can see the extensive open farmland lying to the north of the park. Follow an old bulldozer track up the hill through red stringybark and scribbly gum woodland, and in spring or early summer, keep your eyes open for flowering orchids, such as spotted doubletail or midget greenhood. A real treat may await you at the summit, where wattles and goodenia light up the surrounds with bright yellow hues. Wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies and many bird species can be seen in the surrounding vegetation. Listen out for animals – even if you don’t see them, you may hear a kangaroo as it hops away or birds calling in the treetops or shrubs.

Eugowra NSW

22 km away

Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall edit

Entertainment Venues

Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall

The Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall was built in 1924 to show their respect for, and in remembrance of the Army, Navy and Air Servicemen and women of the Woodstock community. The newly refurbished building is a unique venue with authentic country charm, Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall is situated in the Woodstock village, 20 minutes from Cowra, and 3.5 hours from Sydney. Ideally based for music events, weddings and parties that combine city and rural visiting guests. The Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall is available for hire and is ideal for wedding receptions and other celebrations, as well as concerts, workshops, meetings, fairs, festivals. The Hall’s main auditorium with a stage comfortably seats 150 theatre-style and 160 restaurant-style, plus an adjoining supper room and a servery/kitchen. The kitchen is fully-equipped with direct access to outside areas for catering vans. Backstage dressing rooms are available.

Woodstock NSW

27 km away

Australian, Indonesian and Japanese War Cemeteries

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Australian, Indonesian and Japanese War Cemeteries

Cowra is home to three War Cemeteries. Established in 1964, Cowra is home to the only Japanese War Cemetery to be retained in Australia. There are 523 graves at the Japanese War Cemetery, containing the remains of the 231 Japanese soldiers who were killed in the 1944 Cowra Breakout and all Japanese Nationals who died on Australian soil during World War II. The Australian section of the War Cemetary is the resting place for four of the Australian Soldiers killed in the Cowra Breakout, as well as other service personnel from Cowra who lost their lives in training or from illness. The Cemetery is beautifully maintained and considered a showpiece for modern military cemeteries. There were 1,200 Indonesian internees held at the Cowra POW Camp during WWII. There were two groups, the first being merchant navy sailors and the second being Nationalists who had been exiled to what is now Irian Jaya (Dutch New Guinea) after they had been involved in the 1926 uprising.

Cowra NSW

28 km away

Cowra Prisoner of War Camp Site edit1

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Cowra Prisoner of War Camp Site

Cowra is steeped in rich history and heritage, with much of the town's legacy starting at the Cowra Prisoner of War (POW) Camp site. At 1:50am on the 5th of August 1944, over 1000 Japanese prisoners launched a mass escape from the Cowra Prisoner of War Camp. It was the largest prisoner of war breakout in modern military history. 231 Japanese prisoners and 5 Australian soldiers lost their lives. The ruins of the Prisoner of War Campsite are still visible to this day with well-placed interpretive signage will help you visualize what once stood in this picturesque part of Cowra. Stand under the replica Guard Tower where a detailed audio presentation will bring the scenery around you to life. Designed by artist Wayne Miles for the 75th Anniversary of the Cowra Breakout, a five panel sculpture is situated at the POW Camp. The five steel sheets depict silhouettes of those directly affected by the Breakout - An Australia guard, A Japanese POW, An Italian POW and An Indonesian mother and child. Stroll or cycle along the Cowra Peace Precinct via the Garrison Walk that finishes at the stunning Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre. Take the time to reflect upon the horrific tragedy that occur on this site and the beautiful story of reconciliation that followed.

Cowra NSW

29 km away

COWRA POW WATER TANK MURALS

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Cowra POW Water Tank Murals

Situated atop the hill and overlooking the former Cowra POW Campsite, two murals cast a striking figure over the Wiradjuri countryside. These brightly coloured works were crafted by renowned Australian artists: Joel Fergie from The Zookeeper, Travis Vinson from DRAPL, and Steven Falco and Jordan Bruce from Brightsiders and were funded by the NSW Government's Public Spaces Land were funded by the NSW Government's Public Spaces Legacy Program. Following their impressive work on the Cowra Civic Centre and Laneway Murals, it was decided after many consultation sessions that the tanks would feature two storylines connecting Cowra history. One tank depicts Wiradjuri youth immersed in the Galari Bila (Lachlan River) and the Cowra countryside. The second tank's theme is associated with the POW Camp, showcasing the history of the site and its legacy. The POW Camp was constructed between 1941 and 1944 and is located within the Cowra Peace Precinct.

Cowra NSW

29 km away

Cowra Garrison Gates edit1

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Cowra Garrison Gates

Standing quietly in a residential street on the corner of Binni Creek Road and Amaroo Avenue, the Garrison Gates are one of the last remaining physical links to the Cowra Prisoner of War Camp. Once the original entrance to the headquarters of the 22nd Garrison Battalion, the gates mark the site where the Australian unit responsible for the day-to-day operation of the camp was based during World War II. Today, rosemary grows alongside the brick pillars—a traditional symbol of remembrance—creating a peaceful place to pause and reflect on this significant chapter of Cowra's history. The Garrison Gates are best experienced as part of a self-guided walk through Cowra's Peace Precinct, connecting the Prisoner of War Camp site, the Cowra Breakout Hologram, Japanese War Cemetery, Australian War Cemetery and the Cowra Japanese Garden. Together, these sites tell the remarkable story of conflict, reconciliation and the enduring pursuit of peace that has made Cowra internationally recognised. Although understated, the Garrison Gates remain one of the few original structures from the POW Camp era, making them an important stop for history enthusiasts and visitors exploring Cowra's unique wartime heritage.

Cowra NSW

30 km away

Farleigh 'Beach' Reserve edit1

Natural Attractions

Farleigh Beach Reserve

Farleigh Reserve is a peaceful picnic area on the bank of the Lachlan River (Galari Bila), within 10 kilometers of the centre of Cowra. There is a modern long-drop toilet, picnic tables and bins. Plenty of shade is provided by large eucalypt trees and there is also sunny spots for those who have solar panels. The park area is high above the Lachlan River, with a pathway leading down to the water, where swimming, fishing and canoeing can be enjoyed. Camping overnight is prohibited, however, day-use is permitted.

Cowra NSW

30 km away

Eugowra Swimming Pool

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Eugowra Swimming Pool

When visiting Eugowra why not head down to the pool for a splash. The Eugowra Swimming Pool is located on Oberon Street, just a short stroll from the centre of the village. Enjoy a picnic on the grounds or purchase something from the kiosk. The pool is seasonal, please check for opening times.

Eugowra NSW

30 km away

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