Bakers Shaft Reserve is a beautiful reserve located along the Belubula River. Visitors can enjoy a barbecue with picnic tables provided and fishing. Free camping is also permitted.
The Reserve is located a short 20-minute drive from the village of Mandurama, situated along the Mid-Western Highway in Central New South Wales.
Please note that when Fire Danger Rating is Very High, Severe, Extreme or Catastrophic, the reserve will be closed.
Junction Reefs Reserve is a heritage-listed former mining dam designed and built-in 1896-7 to provide water and power to the nearby gold mine.
Nowadays, Junction Reefs Reserve is a beautiful, secluded campground on the banks of the Belubula River. You can admire the dam wall feature from the Junction Reefs lookout. Enjoy walks along the river to a hidden waterfall past the dam wall and fishing in the river.
A free camping area is available along the river before the dam wall with new toilets recently installed.
Junction Reefs is located approximately 15 minutes from Mandurama along Burnt Yards Road.
Please note that when Fire Danger Rating is Very High, Severe, Extreme or Catastrophic, the reserve will be closed.
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.
Stoke Stable, Built by convict labour c. 1849 and possibly the oldest building in Carcoar “Stoke Stable” is the home of the Carcoar Historical Society Museum.
The Museum displays historical photos and memorabilia reflecting the residential, industrial and agricultural history of the local area. The stone building retains the features of its earlier use. The horse stalls and managers are still visible, as are the building’s early roof shingles—the stable serviced Stoke Hotel which is now a private residence.
Open mid-morning on weekends and public holidays or by appointment
Carcoar Hospital Museum is housed in one of the earliest colonial hospital buildings in Australia. Built to the design of architect Edward Gell and funded by community fundraising, with Government assistance, at a cost of £2,400, the hospital was opened in 1861. It now contains a unique collection of hospital and medical items.
The Museum is usually open on Thursdays (it is advisable to check first). To arrange a visit at other times, please contact them. Groups are very welcome.
The Rustic Flamingo is a fabulous shop in historic Carcoar NSW, full of genuine vintage and genuine retro collectables. The owner is a lover of all things vintage and retro, leading them to open their own shop and sell unique genuine vintage clothing. There is also unique handmade upcycled jewellery and signs.
Come in and enjoy the memories and the rock and roll music from a fabulous bygone era.
Kurt Fearnley Park is located in the heart of Carcoar, the hometown of the Paralympian Kurt Fearnley. The park has beautiful views of the Belubula River and the iconic Carcoar bridge. Enjoy a picnic or barbecue at the park and a walk along the river. Kurt Fearnley park is perfectly located just off the main street in Carcoar.
Kurt Fearnley is a three-time Paralympic gold medallist and two-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist. He has won over 30 marathons, including New York, Chicago and London in a career spanning more than 20 years. In 2009 Kurt crawled the Kokoda Track, in Papua New Guinea, to raise awareness of men’s health. Kurt was also a member of the winning Sydney to Hobart yacht crew, Investec Loyal, in 2012. He was the 2019 Australian of the Year.
The Twentieth Century Toy Museum is currently open during Autumn and Spring weekends and school holidays.
The Twentieth Century Toy Museum houses a collection of over 2000 different toys from across the 20th Century - from Betty Boop to Homer Simpson, Donald Trump and Donald Duck.
Anyone who was anyone during the twentieth century had a toy figure made of them, and you will probably find them here. With 18-foot ceilings and a most impressive original cedar counter, the banking chamber, bank safe and managers' offices of the old CBC Bank form a grand and surprising backdrop to this extensive collection.
In addition, the Museum shop sells a wide variety of old toys, collectables and hand-cut wooden jigsaws.
Welcome to Tomolly, a lovingly curated homewares and fashion store located in a charming Victorian Terrace dating back to the 1800s, nestled in the historic village of Carcoar, also known as "The Town Time Forgot."
"The Shopkeeper" Belinda Satterthwaite, takes great pleasure in bringing her favourite brands and makers to this delightful little store. She favors earthy, natural tones, hoping to inspire and delight you with her thoughtfully chosen collections.
Discover the magic of the village for yourself. It's a place we hope will hold a special place in your heart.
Nestled within the original 1852 Saddlery building in the historic village of Carcoar, A Thousand Words Gallery and Espresso Bar brings a touch of magic to this beautiful town. Their rolling exhibitions present a considered selection of works by artists from across the Central West and around Australia - each one thoughtfully curated to tell a story, spark curiosity, and perhaps offer something truly special to take home. Within the gallery, you'll find their warm and welcoming espresso bar serving Fish River Roasters REVERB coffee, alongside a delicious offering of homemade cakes, sausage rolls, and sometimes scrumptious crepes! Whether you're passing through or making a day of it, they would love to welcome you to their gallery and espresso bar.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
The Carcoar Dam is situated in an attractive setting, providing an ideal site for many types of outdoor recreation.
Water sports such as power boating, sailing, sailboarding and water skiing can all be enjoyed on the dam. Fishing is another popular activity and the dam is stocked with golden perch, trout and Murray cod with a fishing pontoon recently installed. After rain check the water flowing over the dam wall down the Belubula River.
Free camping and caravan sites are available all year round. Toilets and showers (cold water) on-site with barbeque areas and picnic tables.
