Before the kids start up with the “I’m boreds” this school holidays get all those ducks in a row and plan in advance for a day out. We’ve come up with 5 reasons why Richmond might just be the place to visit for you and your family this school holidays.

1. The sweet stuff

That’s right very literally sweet… and plenty of it!

Twiins - Recently opened next to The Richmond Regent Cinema, Twiins certainly satisfys those with a sweet tooth. They have ice cream (28 flavours to choose from), gelato, sorbet, shakes and sweets (a whole wall full of lollies!).

The Ice Creamery operates as a standalone business; customers can access Twiins directly from the street or grab a treat while catching the latest movie (another great school holiday suggestion). It’s the best of both worlds!

If you haven’t experienced them already Twiins are a ‘must try’ this school holidays.

2. Richmond Park

Richmond Park is well known for its popular playground which caters for a range of ages and gets filtered shade in the warmer parts of the day.

The Parks fenced oval is great for a ball game or flying a small kite. It’s proximity to cafes (and the sweet stuff as above) along the main street makes a last minute picnic possible to extend play to stay just that bit longer… “plllleeeeeaaaasssseeeeee?”.

Set right in the Heart of Richmond the Park was once the Market Square and has quite an interesting historic background of use. It is the first point of interest on the Richmond Heritage Highlights Walk, a guided walk for history buffs of all ages. Download here or pick up a printed copy from the Visitor Information Centre.

3. Pugh’s Lagoon

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.

A well known and loved park this little hidden oasis checks several boxes on the school holiday list. There are open grass spaces and picnic tables suited to picnics, check. There are plenty of places to explore in the park, along the lagoon, through the trees, check.  It’s a great spot for birdwatching, check. Bird feeding is no longer encouraged in the park as ongoing bread feeding of the resident and migratory birds makes them unwell.

There are plenty of other parks to discover in the Hawkesbury these school holidays. For a comprehensive listing of all the parks in the Hawkesbury area including facilities such as BBQs, toilets, kids playgrounds, picnic tables check out the parklands brochure here.

4. Arcade Games and Mini Golf

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!

The Arcade features over 30 game machines – car racing, target games, skill testers- you name it.

There is also a 15-hole illuminated mini golf course, in a jungle forest theme - an attraction in itself. Who can get a hole in one? Who will be crowned School Holidays Champion amongst your crew? The challenge is on!

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

5. Family friendly locals ​

While there are many dining options in Richmond, the pubs are certain stand outs for sit down family friendly dining within a stone’s throw of the Richmond Park. …  Kid’s menu anyone?

Richmond Inn - Award-winning Chef Brad Sloane has curated a delicious pub menu with a dedicated kids’ menu with over six delicious dishes to satisfy the fussiest of eaters. Local tip: under 12’s eat for free on Mondays, there’s fun Sundays to entertain the kids and keep and eye on their website for other activities and special kids meal deals.

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, overlooking the open kitchen. Enjoy their delicious desert bar and of course the kids must check out the fun outdoor play area.

RG McGees is a traditional family friendly pub that has been recently renovated with broad appeal. They offer kids meal deal packages and the outdoor beer garden is a favourite for family groups.

If pubs aren’t your thing there’s plenty of cafés and eateries along and just off the main street. If they are- here’s a list of Hawkesbury pubs.

For even more things to do this school holidays make sure you check out What’s On for events, workshops and school holiday fun.

It’s not only Richmond waiting for you this school holidays, the entire Hawkesbury awaits you. Find out more about adventure and discovering the Hawkesbury online here, or call into the Visitor Information Centre for research to compile your own school holiday bucket list.