Quirindi's Out of Town Adventures

Last updated November 15, 2023

Quirindi is the perfect base to kick off a memorable adventure… no matter which road you take out of town, you’ll be well on your way to discover the beauty and diversity of our region and beyond!

From wide-open spaces and patchwork picturesque farmland to dramatic mountain ranges and ancient wilderness; the variety of natural environments offer endless options to experience the great outdoors.

Visit welcoming country towns and villages, each with their own charm, unique character, attractions and calender of events, and if you’re craving a dip in the ocean or some serious retail therapy, Newcastle is only a three-hour drive away. See the ideas below to get you started on your own adventures.

Murrurundi – 25min drive from Quirindi

Boasting natural beauty, rich farmland, plenty of character and a thriving local arts and crafts culture, Murrurundi is a beautiful little town on the Pages River at the foot of the Liverpool Ranges. The main street has been declared an urban conservation area, with a number of local buildings placed on the National Trust register – take a wander down the side streets and see hidden historic architectural gems and pick up an eclectic artwork or antique treasure for your home. The lush green surrounds feature both the Timor Caves and the remarkable Wallabadah Rock, the largest monolith in Australia after Uluru and Mount Augustus. Highlights include:

Michael Reid Murrurundi – one of Australia’s leading regional art gallery with fantastic café onsite. Cnr Boyd and, Mayne St, Murrurundi

Eye of the Needle bushwalk - for a stunning birds-eye view of the town and beyond, take the 2km loop from the Paradise Park Picnic Area.

Magpie Distilling – craft distillery creating unique, premium quality, award-winning spirits. Enjoy tastings and delicious grazing boards with a gorgeous view. Check the website for opening hours, bookings recommended. 84a Glenalvon Rd, Murrurundi

Nundle - 40min drive from Quirindi

Nundle is a charming, historic mining village with a calendar of wonderful annual events, a fabulous pub, a great range of fascinating, eclectic retail opportunities and local attractions, plus meandering river walks with striking scenery. Surrounding areas can see snow falls in the colder months. Check out the website to get the best out of your visit.

Goran Lake – 50min drive from Quirindi

A large internal basis approximately 16kms long and 5kms wide, the lake has a wonderful array of birdlife, including wedge-tailed eagles, black swans, yellow-billed spoonbills and pelicans. Subject to seasonal conditions, check with the Liverpool Plains Visitor Information Centre before venturing out. Lake Goran Rd, Spring Ridge.

Chaffey Dam – 50min drive from Quirindi

Tamworth’s main water supply and a popular destination for water sports, fishing and bushwalking. Toilets, BBQs, kiosk and picnic tables. Nundle Rd, Nundle.

Burning Mountain Nature Reserve - 50min drive from Quirindi

This is an extraordinary landscape - the first Europeans to come across it thought they’d discovered a volcano, however the mountain is quite literally on fire! Australia’s only naturally burning coal seam lies about 20m below the surface, smouldering for an estimated 5,500 years and sending fumes and smoke up through fissures in the rocky hillside. The reserve is packed with day walks, scenic views, birdwatching and picnicking opportunities, with Burning Mountain walk the best way to discover this unusual phenomenon and its impact on the surrounding environment. Information panels along the trail provide fascinating insight into the science and significance to the local Traditional Owners, plus keep an eye out for the wonderful array of animal and bird species too.

Sheba Dams – 50min drive from Quirindi

Just beyond Hanging Rock village (near Nundle) is a lovely spot for a picnic, fish, swim or bushwalk. BBQ facilities, toilets and shady bush camping. Barrys Rd, Hanging Rock

Hanging Rock Lookout – 50min drive from Quirindi

Spectacular views of the Peel River Valley from an elevation of 1100m. Snow can often be seen and frolicked in during the winter months at Hanging Rock, road conditions pending. Hanging Rock Lookout Rd, Hanging Rock

Tamworth - 50min drive from Quirindi

Tamworth is well known for its annual country music festival in January, however this vibrant, thriving city is so much more than golden guitars, sad songs and rhinestones! Tamworth is the regional capital for sporting, retail, food and entertainment making it the perfect day trip or weekend escape.

Highlights include:

Tamworth Regional Astronomy & Science Centre - state-of-the-art astronomical observatory, planetarium and multi-purpose science centre, ideal for both amateur astronomers and the general public to enjoy a hands-on astroscience experience. Operated by Tamworth Regional Council and the Tamworth Regional Astronomy Club. Victoria Park Precinct, Piper Street, East Tamworth

The Capitol Theatre - a 402 seat, purpose-built proscenium arch theatre hosting a dynamic annual season of events and is a regular stop on the national touring circuit. Level 1 Centrepoint Arcade, 374 Peel St, Tamworth

Forum 6 Cinema - a multiplex which also houses the Capitol Theatre. In addition to all the blockbusters, Forum 6 plays retro classics, hosts travelling film festivals and Film Society selections throughout the year. Level 1 Centrepoint Arcade 374 Peel St, Tamworth

Tamworth Regional Entertainment Conference Centre (TREC) - this multi-purpose venue is home to a full calendar of events and seats up to 4,800 in full Concert Mode. It boasts superior audio and visual technology, catering and bar areas, green rooms and flexible stage configurations. Greg Norman Dr, Hillvue.

Marsupial Park - well-tended, 14-hectare bush oasis with a variety of native animals, a free flight aviary, roaming peacocks and network of wonderful bushwalking tracks. BBQ’s, sheltered picnic tables and toilets. Endeavour Drive, East Tamworth

Kamilaroi Walking Track - the Oxley Scenic Lookout is surrounded by natural bushland and is base camp for the Kamilaroi Walking Track. The track winds its way through the scenic scrub of Oxley Park linking the Botanic Gardens, Marsupial Park, Oxley Lookout and Flagstaff Mountain. Some sections of the track are moderate however other sections are quite challenging, the track is well sign posted.

Tamworth Regional Gallery - the second oldest regional gallery in NSW hosts a range of local and national touring exhibitions and offers a wide and varying range of public programs, artist talks and workshops. Level 1/466 Peel St, Tamworth

Len Waters Cultural Tours - Len Waters is a proud Kamilaroi man and a gifted storyteller and communicator, with over 20 years’ experience working in Aboriginal tertiary education. Len gives participants the opportunity to walk in ancient footsteps while listening to traditional songs and stories via guided tours of significant cultural areas in the region, stargazing and storytelling evenings.

Weswal Gallery - an outstanding commercial fine art gallery and design store specialising in works from emerging to established local, regional and national contemporary Australian artists and creatives. In addition to a regularly changing and diverse exhibition program, the gallery also offers a range of unique giftware, plus periodical workshops and social events. 192 Brisbane St, Tamworth

Gunnedah - 1hr drive from Quirindi

A vibrant country town combining a picturesque position on the banks of the Namoi River with local attractions and retail therapy. Due to the abundant variety of favoured eucalyptus and freedom from disease, Gunnedah has a steady koala population living in and around town and scattered throughout the Shire. Locals and visitors alike feel privileged to have access to these endangered Australian icons.

A 30min drive from Gunnedah is Lake Keepit - the lake is two-thirds the size of Sydney Harbour and is a popular destination for water sports and fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers, campers and picnickers. For a thrilling yet wonderfully peaceful experience and a glorious view, hop into a sailplane with Lake Keepit Soaring Club.

Uralla – 1hr 45min drive from Quirindi

Picturesque, colonial gold rush town with historical museum, unique shops and regular events. Uralla is also the location for many of the adventures of Captain Thunderbolt - “the gentleman bushranger”, last of the NSW bushrangers. Travel 15 minutes down the road to see the beautiful Gostwyck Chapel – covered in Virginia Creeper vines, it’s a photographer’s dream, particularly in Autumn.

Walcha – 1hr 50min drive from Quirindi

Set amongst strikingly beautiful countryside, the charming, little historic town of Walcha is best known for its’ Open-Air Gallery, which features a permanent display of over 50 sculptures by renowned local, national and international artists. In addition, the Walcha Art Gallery, antique shops, boutique and gift stores and cosy cafés make Walcha a great day trip adventure. Just down the road is Apsley Falls – with two walking tracks and eight lookouts, you will be sure to find the perfect view of the dramatic gorge and thundering falls.

Hunter Valley region - 2hr drive from Quirindi

With a viticultural history dating back to the early 1800s, the Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s major wine regions and is home to many fabulous wineries, including world renowned brands and charming family-run vineyards. There are over 150 cellar doors offering tastings and tours, plus the region has a growing reputation as a gourmet getaway, with new, innovative dining experiences popping up every day. Throw in luxury day spas, boutique accommodation and local specialty produce, and you have a wonderful weekend adventure!

Newcastle – 3hr drive from Quirindi

A vibrant coastal city known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and dynamic, thriving arts and cultural scene. Nestled on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Newcastle offers a laid-back lifestyle combined with a bustling urban atmosphere. With its captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural offerings, and welcoming community, Newcastle provides a delightful coastal day trip or weekend escape. Highlights include:

Pristine, golden beaches - including Newcastle and Nobbys Beach where you can have a wonderful day splashing in the surf, building sandcastles or just soaking up the sun NOTE: remember to stay safe and only swim between the flags

Mereweather & Newcastle Ocean Baths - both wonderful spots for a dip on a hot day

Honeysuckle - Newcastle's waterfront entertainment area with cafes, restaurants, hotels, boardwalks and a marina. The foreshore boardwalks along the harbour are perfect for wandering and watching the comings and goings of the busy harbour. Also within this precinct is Newcastle Museum, one of Newcastle's most popular visitor attractions and home to an exciting calendar of changing exhibitions

Take a stroll through fabulous Darby Street - filled with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants.

Destination Venues

Currabubula Pub & Café – 25min drive from Quirindi

A classic NSW country pub with hearty chef’s specials and regular live music. This is a local favourite and with good reason – the original hotel has been painstakingly renovated and the atmosphere is great! The town is also renown for the Currabubula Red Cross Art Show, a highly anticipated annual event (held in May) showcasing and selling artwork, jewellery and unique handmade treasures. Davis Street, Currabubula

The Marshall MacMahon Hotel - 10min drive from Quirindi

Historic hotel built in 1867 – the same year that infamous local bushranger Captain Thunderbolt robbed the Wallabadah mail coach! The original stone sections have been incorporated into the present building, creating a charming country pub. 7012 New England Hwy, Wallabadah

Glasshouse Restaurant – 30min drive from Quirindi

Award-winning restaurant with sweeping views over the rolling hills of the historic Goonoo Goonoo Station and the distant Liverpool Range. Accommodation also available. Goonoo Goonoo Station, 13304 New England Highway, Timbumburi

Carroll Gap Farmhouse – 1hr drive from Quirindi

This unique paddock-to-plate experience offers casual café style dining, catered group functions and cookery classes, specialising in traditional Australian country-style cuisine, and proudly using fresh, home-grown and local produce as much as possible. On the small, on-site farm, they aim to incorporate principles of sustainable agriculture, producing organically grown vegetables, fruit, herbs, and eggs for use in the kitchen. When seasons permit, they run dairy cows for milk to use in cheesemaking and use locally grown wheat for sourdough bread. Bookings essential. 3373 Rushes Creek Rd, Somerton

Dungowan Brewery – 1hr drive from Quirindi

Situated within the Woolshed of Dungowan Station, nestled in the picturesque Dungowan Valley in a serene rural setting, this unique dining experience exudes historical charm. The laid-back, counter-style service fosters a tranquil, casual atmosphere, allowing you the freedom to kick-back with family and friends and enjoy a wide range of locally brewed beers and delicious food sourced from local ingredients. Ogunbil Rd, Dungowan

Dobson’s Distillery -1hr 40min drive from Quirindi

Unique and entertaining foodie adventure with award winning gin and whiskey, speakeasy jazz and blues bar, relaxed dining featuring local, seasonal produce. Call 0412068243 for hours and bookings. 298 Kentucky Rd, Kentucky

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