Nundle

Gold rush history 

Gold fever struck the New England region in the 1850s, and while Nundle’s supply of this precious stone has declined, you can still find it – and gems – in the Peel River. The town is one of the nine stops on the Fossickers Way touring route through gemstone country, so while you’re here try your luck at gold and sapphire fossicking. Note: permits are required to pan. 

If you don’t strike it lucky, you can see the splendid Gil Bennet collection of rare minerals and sparkling crystals at the Nundle Visitor Information Centre on Jenkins Street. Then explore the history of the colonial gold rush at the Mount Misery Gold Mine Museum and Cafe.

Nundle Fossicking, Tamworth - Credit: Nundle Fossicking

Things to do 

Like many towns in country Australia, Nundle likes to have fun when it comes to its annual events calendar. Follow the lead of locals and attend the Great Nundle Dog Race in May. What started out as a working dog race has turned into a fantastic family day out, with novelty dog races and fun activities for kids. Chaffey Dam is another family-friendly spot, where you can go boating, sailing and swimming. 

The Nundle locals are a crafty lot, as you’ll soon find out when you visit the Nundle Woollen Mill. This is one of the last operating spinning mills in Australia, occupying a gorgeous heritage building and reliving the history of the industry through informative displays – you can also pick up colourful knits and woollen socks at the mill’s shop. Other local boutiques include Odgers and McClelland, which is located in a beautifully preserved 19th century village store; Ratters Flat Curios; Volcania Art Glass; and Sacs on Jenkins. 

Nundle Woollen Mill, Nundle

Eat & drink 

The New England region of NSW is lush, which means you can look forward to excellent food and cool-climate wines when you visit. If you’re game, you can try to catch your own dinner at the Arc-en-Ciel Trout Farm. If you don’t get a bite, the Smokehouse will sell you one. Meanwhile, you can enjoy pub fare at the Peel Inn Hotel, an 1860s gold rush pub with a shady outdoor seating area. Descend for lunch or dinner, or linger in one of the hotel rooms.  

Peel Inn Hotel, Nundle

Where to stay 

Places to stay include a riverside tourist park, cottages, DAG Sheep Station with its original, historic woolshed, Nundle Fishing Club overlooking Chaffey Dam and lots more. 

Getting there  

Nundle is a 4.5-hour drive from Sydney and just under an hour from Tamworth. You can also fly into Tamworth Airport and hire a car to explore the region. Qantas operates direct flights between Sydney and Tamworth daily, and Link Airways operates direct flights between Tamworth and Brisbane six days a week.