Dungog

Dungog is a beautiful historic town by the Williams River, near the spectacular Barrington Tops National Park. Enjoy a stay in this picturesque river region and enjoy bushwalking and mountain bike trails, gold rush heritage and delicious markets.

Colonial history

A fine collection of heritage-listed buildings line Dungog’s streets. Explore the town walk, where blue plaques highlight fascinating colonial history. The Dungog Museum offers insights into local timber and dairy origins. Film buffs will love the Spanish-style James Theatre, Australia’s oldest operating cinema.

Walks and hikes

The Dungog Information Centre provides maps of spectacular walks through Barrington Tops National Park, in the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. You’ll also find hiking trails and dog-friendly campsites by Allyn River in Chichester State Forest.

Galleries and gardens

You can browse exhibits of established and emerging artists at the Dungog Contemporary Gallery, and in the landscaped grounds of Country Elegance Gardens and Gifts, discover a variety of plants, gifts and garden art. Explore more elegance on a drive south to Tocal Homestead, one of Australia's finest colonial farm buildings.

Food and markets

You’ll find delicious local beers at the Tinshed Brewery, and French home-style cooking at Stella Bistro. Discover seasonal produce and other local goodies at the Dungog Markets, Dungog Local Growers Stall and the Clarence Town Farmers Market.

The annual Dungog Festival on the October long weekend brings together film and music, food and wine, and includes the famous Long Table Dinner. Watch horse riders at their best at the Dungog Rodeo and the Gresford Campdraft and Rodeo.

Getting there and where to stay

You’ll find plenty of places to stay in and around Dungog, which is less than three hours’ drive north of Sydney and 50 minutes from Newcastle Airport. Alternatively, you can take a scenic train trip from Sydney, via Newcastle and Maitland. The quickest rail journey is about 3h 30min.

Accommodation options in Dungog range from camping by the river to caravan parks, comfortable cottage stays, country pubs, cottages and farm stays. You can also stay in nearby Gloucester, which is around an hour away by both car and train.