Grenfell

Highlights

Bushranger tales

Long before gold was discovered at O’Brien’s Hill in 1866, notorious bushrangers, such as Ben Hall and his gang, roamed the hills of Grenfell and the Cowra region. You can explore this history at the Grenfell Historical Museum and follow Ben Hall’s Cave walking track to his secret cave hideout in the Weddin Mountains National Park.

The historical museum also tells the story of the Grenfell gold rush, with The Big Gold Pick and Pan symbolising the gold fever that struck the region – another of Australia’s iconic ‘big things’. Other things to do include visiting the Historic Grenfell Railway Station and the Chrysler Car Museum. Stop to admire the huge mural painted on the Grenfell Commodities Silo, which pays tribute to the region’s farming traditions.

Grenfell Commodities Silos, Grenfell

Events & entertainment

The great Australian writer and bush poet Henry Lawson was born on the Grenfell goldfields in 1867, or Emu Creek as the tiny settlement was known. Grenfell celebrates its famous son at the Henry Lawson Festival of Arts, held every June with writing competitions, poetry performances, live music, rides and market stalls.

Another fun family event is the annual Grenfell Show, a traditional country agricultural show, held in September. Enjoy a picnic in the beautiful gardens of Iandra Castle, a grand heritage-listed homestead open to the public on select days. Visit the Grenfell Art Gallery for exhibitions of talented local artists or download a brochure and look out for brightly coloured beauties along the Weddin Bird Trail.

View of historic sandstone facade of Iandra Castle, Greenthorpe

Iandra Castle, Greenthorpe - Credit: John Mewett

Dine & stay

You’ll be spoiled with local food and wine experiences. Tuck into a hearty country pub meal at the Albion Hotel or Railway Hotel. For coffee and small bites like pies and cakes, head to Unwind or Spannerman Espresso cafes.

You’ll find plenty of places to stay in Grenfell, from caravan parks and hotels to luxury B&Bs. Get back to nature at the Ben Halls campground in the nearby Weddin Mountains or overnight among Victorian elegance at Grenfell Hall.