Heritage & Culture

Within the heritage towns and country lanes of the Orange region you will find rich histories, incredible stories and vivid traces of the past. From the cultural heritage of the original Aboriginal custodians and owners, the Wiradjuri people, to the gold rush history of the 1800s, there are tours, trails and museums that will captivate.

Heritage towns & villages

Wander through the quaint streets of Millthorpe, a heritage-listed village dating back to 1861. A 20min drive from here is Carcoar, full of beautifully preserved, 19th century buildings. Take a walking tour and visit Stoke Stable, the town’s oldest existing building. Built by convicts in 1849, today this building is home to a fascinating museum.

In Molong, the beautifully restored Cobb & Co Coachhouse is home to a showcase of local history. For handcrafted works, produce and artwork visit the nearby Yarn Market Craft Cottage. In Canowindra, visit the Royal Hotel Canowindra, built on the site of Robinson’s Inn, which was taken over for three days by Ben Hall and his gang in 1863.

Museums & tours

In 1955, thousands of fossils were found at Canowindra, giving a unique glimpse into the Devonian Period – known as the 'Age of Fishes’. Many of these are now on display at the Age of Fishes Museum. Music enthusiasts will love the Golden Era Piano Museum, with over 40 historic keyboard instruments on display.

Learn about the life and works of great Australian poet Banjo Paterson at the More Than A Poet Exhibition in Yeoval, the town where he grew up. In 1851, gold was discovered in Ophir, spurring the start of the first Australian gold rush. Find out about the notorious Frank Gardiner–Ben Hall Gang, who committed a series of gold robberies, on Blind Freddy's Bushranger Tours.

Indigenous history & culture

Visit the gravesite of Yuranigh, the only known site in Australia where Aboriginal and European burial practices co-exist. Learn more about the traditional custodians of the land, the Wiradjuri People, on an Indigenous Cultural Adventures tour. Hosted and guided by Wiradjuri Elders, these tours visit significant cultural sites.

Art trails & galleries

Meet local artists and visit galleries where you can learn about their art, and the inspiring stories and methods behind their work, on the Orange Art Trail. At The Peisley St Galleryin Orange, you’ll find one-off exhibitions of quality artworks, including works on canvas, paper and board, prints, ceramics, sculpture, and photography.