New South Wales
Welcome to Armidale
“‘Armidale is a hidden treasure’ the locals tell me, with that sparkle in their eye.”
– Jennifer Adams, Founder, Places We Go
Let us introduce you to Armidale. Located in the heart of the Northern Tablelands, NSW, half-way between Sydney and Brisbane, this historic city is the gateway to some of Australia’s most celebrated national parks. Prior to taking our TV travel series there, we didn’t know a lot about it, yet since returning we’re convinced it is one of our country’s best kept secrets.
Please join us for three wonderful minutes as we take you to the heart of New England, where you’ll be transported back in time.
Shining the light on Armidale | Places We go
Discover enchanting Cascade Falls Walking Tracks at New England National Park
Credit: Destination NSW
Explore the Armidale plaza and local streets
Satisfy your appetite at the award-wining Tattersalls Hotel restaurant
Where is it?
Half-way between Sydney and Brisbane, and about an hour-and-a-half drive inland from Coffs Harbour!
What is the experience?
Located in the heart of New England High Country there’s plenty to do in and around Armidale. Enjoy guided tours, walks, waterfalls and scenic drives in the surrounding National Parks, deep-dive into the city’s renowned art and cultural scene, or tuck into the region’s thriving food and drink offering.
How do you get there?
A few different ways. NSW TrainLink runs a daily train service between Sydney and Armidale, there’s the Armidale Airport that receives daily return flights from Brisbane and Sydney, or simply hire a car and take a scenic drive.
How long should you stay?
There’s enough to do to occupy you for a week, but if you’re short on time two nights will provide a nice overview.
Some of our
favourite experiences
in Armidale
ACCOMMODATION
Stay and indulge at an art-deco jewel
Our stay at the luxurious Tattersalls Hotel Armidale was inspiring. At 170-years old, the way it’s been so meticulously and lovingly restored to its former glory as an Art Deco treasure by a local farming family, along with the passion of the chefs behind it’s award-winning paddock-to-plate restaurant, is perhaps why it’s no surprise that it was overflowing with both locals and travellers alike!
Discover MoreADVENTURE
Get a bird’s eye view of dramatic landscape
The only way to truly understand how unique Armidale and its surroundings are, is from above. Jumping aboard a Fleet Adventures scenic helicopter tour with our passionate local pilot we explored the region's National Parks, including hovering over Wollomombi Falls, one of the highest in Australia! Grasping the true magnitude of the escarpments was a stark contrast to the flat plains and golden farmland that greeted us on our drive into the area.
FIRST NATIONS
Listen and learn from Traditional Owners
For us, the Aboriginal Culture Centre and Keeping Place (ACCKP) is a must-visit with its doors wide-open to all that want to learn about New England’s rich First Nations history. We were warmly welcomed by custodian Rose Lovelock who eagerly brought the contemporary and vibrant artworks of Aboriginal artists from across the New England region alive, celebrating what she says is a “thriving Aboriginal arts community with many stories to tell.”
Discover MoreARTS & CULTURE
Immerse in New England’s art and culture
If only the walls could talk! As soon as we stepped inside the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) we felt immersed in this museum of national significance, mesmerised by both the director’s passion and the collection of over 5,000 works of historical (both modern and contemporary) art. NERAM is one of Australia’s most significant art collections outside of the capital cities and is testament to the city’s thriving art and culture scene.
Discover MoreFOOD & DRINK
Enjoy a cold beer with the locals
Our tip is to swing by Great Hops Brewery on a Friday night, and enjoy one of its famous craft beers, and soak up its happy vibe! Perhaps it’s the onsite brewery? Or the bright red fire truck parked out the front? Or the fact the brewery itself sits in the paddock of its owner and founder, Sam Martin! Either way, we got the warmest welcome into this warm-hearted farming community, and bet you will too.
Discover MoreNATURE
Be awed by nature
If you only do one thing when you stay in Armidale, our advice is to witness the sunrise at Point Lookout in the New England National Park; our experience felt ethereal. The way the light danced across the valley, and how the birds called out over the ancient forest, on land that was once part of Gondwanaland, left us speechless. Be sure to pack your hiking boots for the many walking trails on offer!
Discover MoreWin the ultimate weekend escape to beautiful Armidale
Prize valued at $2,600
Indulge in a Premium Suite at the historic Tattersalls Hotel Armidale
Experience a private Director’s tour at the New England Regional Art Museum
Enjoy a thrilling scenic helicopter flight with Fleet Helicopters
Visit the one and only Great Hops Brewing Co
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