Winter is certainly well and truly set in. The best thing about winter is finding and enjoying the warmth of an open fire, a mulled wine, or a decadent dish like a spiced apple pie on a winter’s day.

There’s plenty of opportunity for those right here in the Hawkesbury.

Why is sitting by a fire so relaxing? We could probably go on about it all day but the office consensus and some researching suggests it is often because:

- Our evolutionary senses align a good fire and being warm to survival instincts of success, so it feels good resting by a fire.

- We often catch up with friends and family around fireplaces and fire pits so we associate them with good times.

- It’s just a nice feeling, especially at the end of the day with a tasty meal or a warming drink.

-  The elements of  crackle and  ambient lighting in fire reduces blood pressure and overall stress levels.

Who’s to argue with that?

There’s no shortage of places to warm those chilled bones so we thought we’d compile a list of a few of our favourite cosiest fireplaces to visit, cosy places to beat the cold and soak up the warmth of the flames inside ...

Lochiel House, Kurrajong Heights
Lochiel House is a 200+ year old cottage offering Modern Australian cuisine with hints of South African influence, made with ingredients sourced from local suppliers and only the highest-quality producers across Sydney.  The traditional style open fireplace is so rustic its mantle adorns a historic local map.

The Village Kitchen, Kurrajong
This café in the heart of the Kurrajong Village  boasts a beautiful open fire in the dining room, and a delicious seasonal menu. Their monthly set menu nights are always popular and often book out in advance.

Barrels and Ashes, Richmond
Barrels & Ashes is a welcoming haven for those who wish a pleasant, long relaxing meal or a couple of drinks after work and a great place to meet with friends. Take your place next to their roaring fire in the charming 1800s building, relax and unwind as live music sets the mood for an unforgettable evening. Cheers!

Barracks Bar at Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley, Windsor.
Located within the Crowne Plaza, the bar is an ideal place to meet up for a coffee catch up, sumptuous lunch or after work drink and cocktails. The fireplace here sets off the feel for this ambient all day dining lounge.

Kravings Bistro,  North Richmond
Located within the North Richmond Hotel, the perfect location on a cold night to enjoy a warm fire and on the menu you will find something for everyone.

Have an extended need for a fireplace? Many of our Hawkesbury accommodation providers have cosy cabins, fireplaces and even out door fire pits. Check out our accommodation listings to extend your stay and let the fire warmed contentment from our local venues keep the chills at bay!

There’s plenty more out there– let us know your favourite local venue with a fireplace.

You can find more dining options in The Hawkesbury with and without fireplaces in Discover The Hawkesbury’s taste page.