Guide to Maitland New South Wales Australia

Only 2 hours from Sydney, 30 minutes from the port city of Newcastle and only 15 minutes from the Hunter wine country, Maitland lies in the heart of the Lower Hunter where the Hunter River and its tributaries join. It is a city rich in heritage, stately mansions, fine civic buildings and magnificent churches. In the mid to late 1800’s Maitland was a thriving centre to rival Sydney as the potential capital of New South Wales.

Maitland celebrates its past as one of Australia’s oldest areas, during Heritage Month each year. Many stately homes are open for inspection. There are events, exhibitions and concerts throughout the 4 weeks. There is also Steamfest, a train enthusiast’s delight. Steam trains converge on Maitland station offering loco journeys and the Great Train Race. There are miniature traction engine rides and all manner of train related activities and displays.

Throughout the year Maitland holds excellent drama and music concerts. There are also exhibitions at the Maitland City Art Gallery and other private galleries throughout the area. Grossman House is a National Trust gem, for a trip back to yesteryear. Maitland Markets, held on the first Sunday of the month are a popular event. There are modern shopping areas and malls for all your needs, with accessible parking facilities.

Accommodation ranges from motel, hotel, apartments and cottages to bed and breakfast facilities. A caravan park and camping amenities are also available. There are delightful recreational facilities including the historic Walka Water Works, set in parklands and bird sanctuary.

Maitland has a population of approximately 54,000. It has a small aircraft airport and enjoys excellent countrylink and citylink train and private coach services. The local newspaper, the Maitland Mercury, printed since 1843, is one of the oldest remaining Australian newspapers.

Immerse yourself in Hunter River Country, a patchwork of fertile farmlands and lively villages surrounding the spectacular heritage city of Maitland.

In Hunter River Country you will meet farmers selling fresh local produce, chefs with amazing culinary skills, cosy heritage riverside cafes, and quiet vineyards where you can hear tales of each wine from the owner.

Challenge yourself with something new- take a flight into a world past, spend a night in a gaol cell or sit back and watch a movie under the stars.

Remember how to take pleasure in the small things, the smell of fresh bacon and eggs, the feel of crisp white sheets, the taste of homegrown tomatoes, with compliments from our many quality accommodation providers.

Hunter River Country includes the villages of Bolwarra, Largs, Lochinvar, Lorn, Luskintyre, Morpeth, Paterson, Rosebrook and Tocal and the areas of East Maitland and Rutherford.

Just 90 minutes drive from Sydney, follow the signs to Maitland.

Nearest Airport: Rutherford