Tamworth

Nestled in north-west NSW, it’s hard to imagine a destination that paints a more delightful picture of local life. Tamworth offers an idyllic blend of old-world charm with a bustling community and blossoming cultural scene.

Tamworth is renowned as Australia’s Capital of Country, a title that represents the region in every sight and sound. The Big Golden Guitar Tourist Centre is a landmark to behold and is home to more than twenty guitars, autographed by Australian and international country music icons. In January, the city hub welcomes 50,000 visitors as the Tamworth Country Music Festival rings in the new year. Over its 40 year history, the festival has featured thousands of local artists and legends to become one of the biggest events on the global music calendar.

For visiting gourmands, Tamworth’s emerging culinary scene is truly worth tasting. A thriving agricultural industry provides some of the country’s finest beef, lamb, poultry and dairy, giving rise to some outstanding paddock-to-plate fare. Over 20 boutique vineyards and distilleries call the region home, producing spectacular cool-climate wines, local brews and spirits. Many a guest wanders from cellar door to farm gate to sample locally made goats cheese and providores.

The highlight of Tamworth’s culinary calendar is the Taste Tamworth Festival, a ten-day event running from 1 – 10 April, which brings together the region’s growers, makers and chefs. Festival goers fill local laneways, gather at pop-up bars, enjoy long lunches, and embark on farm trail tours. Even outside of festival dates, Tamworth is the perfect weekender for any self-proclaimed foodie. Local markets like Le Pruneau are stocked with organic produce and french flavours, and vineyards like Eastview Estate and Merilba Estate provide relaxed, stylish spaces to enjoy the very best in regional fare.

If Tamworth stirs up your spirit of adventure, there is no shortage of things to do or see. Whether you’re after a breath of fresh air or a rush of energy, natural wonders and waterfalls are only a hop, skip or jump away from the city hub. Manilla Paragliding and Freedom Flights will give thrillseekers a unique, breathtaking view of the region, or for something just a little more low-key, the beautiful Warrabah National Park is a popular place to rock climb or bushwalk. Tamworth is also home to more than 50 rodeo, equine and alpaca events every year, with Kootingal Horse Riding Adventures providing seasoned riders and beginners with lessons and trails.

Families are taken good care of too, with an array of spectacular sights and experiences for any age. Kids are welcome to hand feed native animals at the Tamworth Marsupial and Adventure Park, and Tamworth Regional Playgrounds offer relaxing spots for BBQ and picnic facilities. Enjoy a scenic drive to nearby Nundle, fossick in the Peel River and head up to the Hanging Rock Lookout, to take in what is arguably the best view in the New England region.

From the Big Golden Guitar to surrounding charming country towns, Tamworth offers an unforgettable escape to the heart of country. Book your getaway today.