Nundle & Hanging Rock
Both Nundle and Hanging Rock are popular destinations for visitors all year ‘round…
…rendering this slice of paradise one of the Tamworth region’s worst-kept secrets.
A scenic 50-minute drive into the “Hills of Gold” from Tamworth will land you at Nundle and Hanging Rock and though the two villages are just 10km apart, the 600m change in elevation means that they couldn’t be more different.
Experience Nundle and Hanging Rock
Nundle and Hanging Rock are nestled in the hills to the south-east of Tamworth and with their high altitude you’ll experience a far different climate to the rest of the region. Snow is common in the winter months and the summers are warm and comfortable.
Established in the 1850s after the discovery of gold at Hanging Rock, both villages flourished during the gold rush era with thousands of miners calling the area home. Today, fossickers are still drawn to the area to try their luck, and you’ll find remnants of that prosperous time around each and every corner.
In the village of Nundle, discover boutique treasures, a range of unique dining options, and beautiful parks and museums. It’s a favourite for visitors from metropolitan areas, who come to recharge, relax and get a taste of the village’s enviable lifestyle. And the views aren’t bad at all! Nundle is also well known across the Tamworth region (and beyond) for its bursting-at-the-seams annual events calendar, which each see the village swell with visitors.
For those feeling the pull of the natural landscape, Hanging Rock delivers with captivating views of the Peel Valley and picturesque recreation areas. It’s also a great escape to beat the summer heat, and a beautiful spot to play in the snow if you’re lucky enough to be there on the right winter day.
Soak up every last bit of Nundle and Hanging Rock by making a weekend of it, with accommodation options that’ll satisfy travellers from all walks of life. It’s the perfect base for visits to Chaffey Dam, Sheba Dams, or a great stop off for travellers wanting a break from the New England Highway.
Top 5 Nundle Experiences
1. Great Nundle Dog Race
Nundle is known for its unique and crowd-drawing events, and the Great Nundle Dog Race is perhaps one of the highlights on the annual calendar. Held every year on the first Sunday in May, it began as a bet being waged between two farmers arguing over whose dog was the fastest. Fast forward to today; the event includes more than 20 events for dogs of all types and is a really fun day out for the family!
2. Nundle Woollen Mill
The award-winning Nundle Woollen Mill which welcomes over 30,000 visitors each year is a must-visit stop for your itinerary. Home to working antique machines and providing a chance to reconnect with Australia’s wool heritage, the Mill runs guided tours daily during the week and by appointment on weekends. If you’re the crafty type, their colourful yarns are for sale at the Mill shop. If you’re not, you’ll do better to check out the clothing and accessories there instead!
3. Hanging Rock Lookout
With a spectacular view of the Peel Valley from its vantage point at 1,100m, the Hanging Rock Lookout is a great spot to take a picnic and breathe in the natural surroundings.
4. Arc-en-Ciel Trout Farm
Forget paddock to plate, it’s pond to plate at Arc-en-Ciel Trout Farm! Located in the Hanging Rock ranges, the 184-hectare property runs tours where you’ll learn about farming trout from fingerlings to harvest size, and you can even catch your lunch in the dam. If that sounds like too much hard work, enjoy lunch at The Drunken Trout café, or grab some of their award-winning products from the farm shop to takeaway.
5. Boutique Shopping
Stroll down Jenkins Street in Nundle for the ultimate boutique shopping experience. Check out local institutions like Odgers & McClelland Exchange Stores, Stormcrow Studio, Jenkins Street Antiques and Fine China and Bliss Nundle.
