Uralla

This picturesque town in the middle of the New England High Country has it all. In Uralla, you’ll find colonial gold rush history and indigenous heritage alongside fabulous artisanal food and boutique wineries. Whether you fancy fossicking for gold or pulling up a stool at a craft brewery, there’s something here for you.

Things to do

Get your bearings on the Uralla Heritage Walk, a self-guided tour which takes in more than 50 heritage buildings dating from the 1860s. This was the era of gentleman bushranger Captain Thunderbolt. Learn about his exploits at the McCrossin’s Mill Museum, including his end near Uralla in 1870.

The natural beauty around Uralla is worth exploring. A short drive northwest along Thunderbolts Way is Mount Yarrowyck Nature Reserve, home to Aboriginal rock art that is up to 500 years old. Go riding at Harlow Park Horse Riding, from short trails to multi-day camping treks, or try your luck fossicking for gold and gems at nearby Wooldridge.

Eat & drink

Uralla is considered the area’s foodie capital and offers a smorgasbord of delicious experiences. Buy handmade cheeses at Sunhill Dairy Goats and meet the goats on a farm tour. The annual Seasons of New England Expo in March celebrates the region’s finest produce, artisan creations, and local brewers and distillers.

The New England wine region has a lot to offer. Visit cellar doors at Eastview Estate and Dobson’s Distillery and Merilba Estate Wines, which is co-located with the New England Cider Co. Beer aficionados will love the New England Brewing Company, which pours craft beers in a converted wool store.

Getting there & where to stay

Uralla is a 5hr 30min drive from Sydney, six hours from Brisbane, just over an hour from Tamworth and only 20min from Armidale. Take a train trip from Sydney to Uralla, via the Upper Hunter, or fly to Armidale and rent a car for the short drive south. You’ll find plenty of places to stay, from camping and caravanning to cottages, motels, farm stays and heritage pubs.