Heritage and Culture
Whether before or after the thrilling RAAF Airshow weekend, our relaxed Sunday itinerary offers the perfect opportunity to explore the Hawkesbury at your own pace.
Immerse yourself in the region’s rich heritage and vibrant culture as you stroll through charming historic villages, and discover colonial landmarks. Experience the peaceful slower pace that makes the Hawkesbury truly special.
Morning: Start your morning with a freshly brewed coffee and a bite to eat at Valley Way Cafe, a local favourite that proudly serves the Hawkesbury community. Then pop next door to the Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre, open from 9am, where you'll find a fantastic range of locally made ciders, jams, honey, and other local regional treats - perfect souvenirs and a great way to support local producers.
From there, journey back in time at
Australiana Pioneer Village in Wilberforce, opening at 10am. This beautifully preserved village brings the late 1800s to life, offering hands-on experiences like butter churning, sampling traditional lemonade, and even riding a penny farthing. Wander done the main street past heritage buildings as you soak up the sights, sounds, and stories of the Hawkesbury's vibrant past - a fun, immersive experience the whole family will remember.
Afternoon: Discover the charm of Macquarie Park, located just across the river from Windsor's town centre. With sweeping views of the Hawkesbury River, this picturesque spot has been a favourite picnic destination for locals for over a century
Bring the whole family - kids will love the spacious playground, and there's plenty of open parkland to relax or explore. Pick up some fish and chips from the nearby Macquarie Boathouse Cafe and enjoy a leisurely meal by the riverbank..
Macquarie Park is also home to one of the 11 stories featured in The River: Dyarubbin, a series that shares Indigenous connections to this landscape. Sit beneath a tree or stroll alongthe river while listening to the story of this special place on Spotify or Apple Podcasts - it's a peaceful and meaningful way to deepen your connection to Country.
If you have time, explore the
Hawkesbury Regional Gallery, boasting a rotating program of art, photography, sculpture, craft and design, as well as the Regional Museum - where you can learn about the region's rich cultural heritage and gain a deeper understanding of the people, stories, and landscapes that have shaped the Hawkesbury over time.
Evening: To finish your day enjoy a nightcap at the Macquarie Arms Hotel - Australia's oldest mainland pub, built in 1815 by convicts under Governor Macquarie's orders - then wander through Windsor's mall, where gas lamps cast a golden glow on Georgian facades and the whispers of colonial days linger in the evening air.