How to spend a weekend at Bathurst Winter Festival

Just over the Blue Mountains but not far away, the city of Bathurst bursts into life each winter season with the enchanting Bathurst Winter Festival.

As the days shorten and temperatures drop, Bathurst transforms into a wonderland of lights, laughter, and family fun. This annual celebration, held in the heart of New South Wales, is the ultimate winter escape for families during the school holidays.

Bathurst’s historic streets come alive with twinkling lights, vibrant installations, carnival rides, and an outdoor ice-skating rink. Kings Parade, the festival’s centrepiece, becomes a bustling hub of winter activities. From the lantern parade and live performers on the opening night to the LiveBetter Accessibility Day and the silent disco, there are countless opportunities for everyone to experience the fun.

Indulge in local flavours at the Charles Sturt University Brew and Bite night markets. This lively event showcases regional producers, food trucks, distillers, winemakers, and brewers, providing a feast for the senses. Enjoy a delicious meal and explore the illuminated night walk in Machattie Park, where dazzling light displays and shows captivate visitors of all ages.

One of the festival highlights is the outdoor ice-skating rink, a family favourite that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a novice, the rink offers a delightful experience for everyone. Special family-friendly sessions and skate aids for beginners ensure even the youngest members can join in the fun. Make sure to book ahead of time to secure your spot on the ice.

Complete your ultimate Bathurst family holiday

Make the most of your weekend with a winter getaway to Bathurst. The region is jam-packed full of exciting seasonal experiences and winter-warming fun. 

No trip to Bathurst would be complete without trying your hand at some gold panning. A visit to the Historic Village of Hill End is an absolute must for anyone looking to make their fortune. Anyone can have a go at gold panning out at the Tambaroora Fossicking Area, but if it’s your first time, a gold panning tour with Jhob Drinkwater is a great way to learn and get the little ones interested.

Then, warm the tyres up and enjoy your car’s heating by driving a few laps around Mt. Panorama. The racing circuit is a public road, and anyone can drive around it at any time. Make sure to stop at the Mount Panorama scenic boardwalk to take in the surrounding views.

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There’s nothing like a brisk winter stroll, and Bathurst is a great place to explore on foot. As Australia’s oldest inland European settlement, there are ornate finds in every direction. 

Keppel Street, with its vintage cast-iron lamp posts and heritage buildings, is a hub of boutique stores, cafes, and galleries. From 6 July to 8 September 2024, drop into the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery to see the new Dhuluny Exhibition, which commemorates the 200-year anniversary of the declaration of martial law—an event of national historical significance and cultural impact.

Visit the Railway Station and Station Master’s Residence. The Victorian Tudor-style station is a pretty old thing. Right next to it is the Bathurst Railway Museum, which was opened to high acclaim in 2020.

Indoor adventures for the ultimate winter getaway

If the outside air is proving too cold, why not take the party indoors?

The National Motor Racing Museum is sure to get pulses racing with its thrilling collection of racing memorabilia. Families can learn all about the history of Australian motorsport, the Bathurst Speedway, plus great drivers and their vehicles. 

Located in the heart of Bathurst is the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, which is a hit for all ages.  The Somerville Collection – a collection of over 5,000 objects is a fascinating assemblage of rocks, gems and minerals. With fossil specimens from every major stage of life on earth and a full-size T-Rex skeleton, the museum is a favourite of both little and big kids.

Warm up at these Bathurst eateries

Sip on locally roasted coffee beside a cosy wood fire at The Hub. A favourite with the locals, this cheerful espresso bar serves up delicious variations of café classics. The kids will love the coconut-crusted brioche French toast.

Nestled in Ribbon Gang Lane is Church Bar and Woodfire Pizza. As the name suggests, the restaurant is contained within a heritage church building. Here, you can expect crowd-pleasing pizzas and a great atmosphere.

Top off a hearty meal with a trip to Annie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlour, where everything is made in-store. Local favourites Bridle Track and Sofala Gold are an absolute must-try.

Where to stay for the ultimate winter getaway

Bathurst gets really cold in winter, with nightly temperatures dipping below zero degrees. But there’s just something about cosying up with the family, hot chocolates in hand. Get out of town and into the regions to experience a true country getaway. Experience a night under by the fireplace at Red Hill Nest, or try something unique at 232 @Boonderoo Eco house built into the ground.

With its welcome drinks, seasonal pick-and-eat orchard and stylish interior, The Guesthouse – Hill End has all the trimmings. Families are well looked after with an indoor furnace, outdoor firepit and smart TV.

Spend a night, not a fortune

Bathurst has a range of comfortable and central motels and self-contained apartments. Stay in The Hayloft, a unique open-plan cottage near Mt. Panorama. Or book a room at Littlomore Hotel and Suites for something central. If you’re looking for a winter festival bargain, take a look at the Where to Stay for all the latest bargains.

Experience a family winter farmstay

Visit Adelong Farm for cosy accommodation set on a picturesque 1,200 acre working sheep and cattle property. There are two spacious offerings – The Homestead and The Hut – which sleep 10 and six respectively. Both are perfect for entertaining and The Homestead even has a games room –  complete with pool table, board games and a fireplace.

Cadogan Country House is a little slice of luxury between Orange and Bathurst. This stay comes complete with a gourmet kitchen, underfloor heating and open fire. Take a farm tour, or get lost in the private hedge maze. Parents will adore the fine dining experiences and winery tours on offer.

Alternatively, stay at Wilga Station, an expansive 260-acre sheep farm just outside of town that can accommodate up to 10 people in style at the delightful Shearers Hall.

Plan your trip

Info: bathurstregion.com.au

Getting there: Bathurst is just under three hours’ drive from Sydney and just over three hours from Canberra. 

The city is serviced by a local bus network as well as taxis but it’s best to drive there yourself. 

This article originally appeared in issue 68 of Holidays with Kids magazine. Subscribe to the latest issue here.

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