The Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre has you covered with the best tips for family-friendly fun in Richmond and the wider Hawkesbury region. From sweet treats to scenic parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy these school holidays.

1. The sweet stuff  

If your kids are craving something sweet, Twiins Ice Creamery is a must-visit in Richmond. With over 30 flavours of ice cream, gelato, sorbet, milkshakes, and a wall packed with lollies, it’s sugar heaven for the whole family. Located next to the Richmond Regent Cinema (currently closed for renovations), Twiins is the perfect stop before or after exploring the pretty town of Richmond.

Local tip: Already a fan? Twiins is worth a repeat visit during the school holidays for all that sweet goodness.

2. Play and explore at Richmond Park

Richmond Park is a local favourite for families. The large playground caters to kids of all ages, while the fenced oval is perfect for ball games or flying a kite. Surrounded by cafes and just a short walk from Richmond’s main street, it’s ideal for a picnic or a casual day outdoors.

On Saturday mornings from 8am-1pm you will find the popular Richmond Good Food Market set up for trade.

Richmond Park also holds historical significance, once serving as the Market Square. Don’t miss the Richmond Heritage Highlights Walk, which starts at the park. Grab a map from the Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre or download a copy online here.

3. Discover Pugh’s Lagoon

Pugh’s Lagoon is a picturesque spot loved by locals and visitors alike. With open grass areas, picnic tables, and birdwatching opportunities, it ticks all the boxes for a family day out.

Bird feeding is no longer encouraged in the park as ongoing bread feeding of the resident and migratory birds makes them unwell.

For more parks and outdoor adventures in the Hawkesbury, pick up the parklands brochure from the Visitor Information Centre.

Just to clarify and avoid confusion the park area is actually named Smith Park, the water body that makes it so popular and picturesque is named Pugh’s Lagoon. A painting of the Pugh’s Lagoon and the adjacent church by Charlers Conder in 1888 has the location on the Artists Trail and is evidence of its lasting appeal.

4. Arcade Games and Mini Golf at Arcadia

For some indoor fun, Arcadia at Richmond Club offers over 30 arcade games, from racing machines to skill testers, plus a 15-hole illuminated mini golf course with a jungle forest theme. Families can enjoy kids play free specials and half-price sessions during the school holidays. The challenge is on!

At Richmond Club’s Arcadia it’s playtime for little kids and big kids. That’s right parents you can play too, don’t let all the small fry have all the fun!

Local tip - check out the “kids play free” special deals and the half price times to get the maximum fun for minimal price.

Remember to keep an eye on Richmond Club's What's On page for updates.

5. Family friendly Dining in Richmond​

Richmond has plenty of options for family dining, from casual cafés to award-winning pubs. Highlights include:

• Richmond Inn – Delicious kids’ menu, under 12’s eat for free, keep an eye on their website for other activities, special meal deals and happy hours.
• Royal Richmond – has a beautiful atrium bistro restaurant, with natural lighting, cosy booth seating and long country-style dining tables where you can share a feast of local produce with your family and friends.
• RG McGees – Traditional pub with family meal deals and outdoor seating. Check out their new outdoor area with children's playground - a favourite for family groups.
• Cafés like The Bank Café, The Second Home Café, and Park Lane Café – All offer kid-friendly meals.

From Richmond to the wider Hawkesbury region, there's no shortage of family-friendly things to do.

For more ideas on attractions, workshops, events and school holiday activities visit the Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre. Our friendly staff can help you plan your visit ensuring a fun-filled holiday for the whole family.  For more things to do this school holidays make sure you check What’s On for event, workshops and school holiday fun.

It’s not only Richmond waiting for you this school holidays, the entire Hawkesbury awaits.