Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Hawkesbury located?
The Hawkesbury is a region in New South Wales, Australia. Its local government area is located on the far northwest fringe of the Greater Sydney area.

Driving distances:
40kms from Western Sydney Airport (WSI) via M12 and the Northern Road.
57kms north west of Sydney CBD, via the M2 Motorway, Old Windsor Road and Windsor Road.
22kms north of Penrith via the Castlereagh or Londonderry Roads.
89kms east from Lithgow via Bells Line of Road.

Can I visit Sydney easily from the Hawkesbury area?
Trains run daily every 30 minutes to the Sydney CBD on the T1 line.

Top 10 experiences the Hawkesbury offer?
1. Australiana Pioneer Village - Step back in time and experience Australian life how it was 100 years ago (Sunday only).
2. Enjoy a Devonshire tea at Ebenezer Church - the oldest church in Australia (Wednesday-Sunday).
3. Discover country markets - enjoy a visit to the Good Food Market in Richmond on Saturday morning or the Windsor Mall Markets each Sunday.
4. Visit the Hawkesbury Regional Museum for a local historical and cultural experience - free entry - also visit the Hawkesbury Regional Gallery and enjoy the current exhibitions - free entry.
5. Feed an alpaca a Maddison's Mountain Retreat in Bilpin - bookings essential.
6. Pick fruit direct from a local orchard (seasonal availability).
7. Take a riverside walk along the Hawkesbury River in Windsor.
8. Visit heritage towns and take a self-guided walk.
9. Discover the beauty of the surrounding National Parks.
10. Wild Cat Conservation Centre - bookings essential.

How far is the Hawkesbury from Western Sydney Airport (WSI)?
The Hawkesbury is approximately 45minutes drive from the new Western Sydney Airport, making it one of the most accessible regional destinations in New South Wales for day trips, weekend escapes and nature-based holidays.

What is the Hawkesbury known for?
The Hawkesbury region is famous for the Hawkesbury River, colonial history, fertile farmland, fresh local produce, fruit picking, heritage towns, national parks, bushwalking and scenic countryside. The region is regarded as one of Australia's earliest colonial locations.

What are the best things to do in the Hawkesbury?
Yes, the Hawkesbury is one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Sydney. Visitors can explore heritage towns, enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes, visit orchards, experience local markets and discover the region's natural beauty all within a day.

What are the main towns in the Hawkesbury?
Windsor
Richmond
Kurrajong
Bilpin 
Wisemans Ferry
St Albans
Ebenezer
Wilberforce
Each town offers its own mix of history, nature, local food and visitor experiences.

What National Parks are near the Hawkesbury? 
Wollemi National Park
Blue Mountains National Park 
Dharug National Park 
Yengo National Park 
Cattai National Park 
Scheyville National Park 
Windsor Downs Nature Reserve
These parks provide opportunities for bushwalking, bird watching and scenic lookouts. Some of the parks also offer camping.

When is the best time to visit the Hawkesbury?
The Hawkesbury is a year-round destination.
Spring is popular for gardens and outdoor activities.
Summer for river experiences and fruit picking.
Autumn for orchard visits, changing autumnal colours and bushwalking.
Winter for scenic drives, heritage exploration, bushwalking and cosy country escapes.

Can you go fruit picking in the Hawkesbury?
Yes, the Hawkesbury is one of New South Wales best fruit picking destinations. Depending on the season, visitors can pick apples, stone fruit, citrus and other fresh produce, particularly around Bilpin area.

What food is the Hawkesbury known for?
The Hawkesbury is known as one of Sydney's historic food bowls, producing fresh fruit, vegetables, honey and other local produce. Visitors can enjoy farm gate experiences, local cafés, restaurants, breweries, distilleries, wineries and cider cellar doors throughout the region.

Is the Hawkesbury family friendly?
Yes, familes can enjoy parks, playgrounds, farm visits, fruit picking, museums, bushwalks, markets and nature-based experiences suitable for all ages.

Is the Hawkesbury a good destination for couples?
Yes, couples can enjoy cosy B&B stays, good food and wines, bushwalks, pretty picnic spots, fruit picking, scenic drives and nature-based experiences.

What Aboriginal culture is connected to the Hawkesbury?
The Hawkesbury is the traditional Country of the Dharug and Darkinjung peoples. The region has a deep Aboriginal history and cultural significance that extends back thousands of years, particularly along the Dyarubbin (Hawkesbury River).

Are there places to stay in the Hawkesbury?
Yes, accommodation options include:
Bed and breakfasts
Holiday homes and cottages
Houseboats
Motels and resorts
Farm stays
Caravan Parks
Camping grounds

What makes the Hawkesbury different from other destinations near Sydney?
The Hawkesbury offers a unique combination of heritage rivers, mountains, farmland and authentic country towns within easy reach of Sydney. Combining Aboriginal heritage, colonial history, national parks, food experiences and outdoor adventure in one region.

How many days should I stay for?
We recommend ideally a 12 or 24 hour itinerary - longer if you choose to base your stay in the area and explore other regions.