Gunning

Fascinating colonial history

One of Australia’s most significant colonial explorations began here in 1824. Explorers Hume and Hovell led a groundbreaking expedition from Gunning to Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne in search of new grazing land. Explore this history and more on the Gunning Town Tour.

On the main street is the fascinating Pye Cottage Museum. The historic slab hut cottage is furnished with household items, intriguing photographs and agricultural tools and artefacts from the area’s rich wool heritage. Originally built in Dalton in 1860, the settlers’ cottage is one of the last of its kind in the area.

Selection of Fine Art Prints and Paintings at The Picture House Gallery and Bookshop

The Picture House Gallery and Bookshop, Gunning - Credit: Margarita Georgiadis

Things to do

Enjoy an authentic country experience at the Lions Gunning Country Markets, held in and around the historic Courthouse where you'll find jams, honey, arts and crafts, and homemade goods. For a spectacular fireworks show, don’t miss the Gunning Fireworks Festival in September.

Stop by the Picture House Gallery and Bookshop, a treasure trove of second books and movie memorabilia, housed inside the historic Coronation Theatre. You’ll also find many great cafes in Gunning serving delicious local fare or drop into the Telegraph Hotel, a classic country pub, for a hearty meal.

Wombeyan Caves, Goulburn - Credit: Destination Southern Highlands

Scenic drives & natural wonders

There are a number of beautiful scenic drives through the surrounding area. Just north of Gunning, you’ll find the prehistoric Fossil Rock, a fossil leaf deposit from 40 million years ago. The breathtaking Wombeyan Caves are also unforgettable. For delicious local produce, explore the nearby Tablelands Food and Wine Trail.

Getting there

Gunning is a 2 hour and 30-min drive from Sydney and one hour from Canberra. It’s also a stop on the Sydney to Melbourne train line and the journey takes just over three hours. There are several accommodation options in Gunning, including a free campground at Barbour Park.