Explore the Hawkebsury's Colonial Heritage

In the Hawkesbury you will discover historic churches, convict-built building , heritage pubs and streets that have welcomed travellers for more than 200 years. Many of these preserved buildings are still in use today, housing cafés, restaurants, shops and other local businesses.

Set aside a full day (8–10 hours) to discover the Hawkesbury's charming towns, villages and colonial landmarks.

Self drive travel with hire car from airport is approximately 130km round trip.

Suggested for couples and small adult groups who enjoy history and food experiences.

Why visit?

• Explore one of Australia's oldest colonial settlements.
• Discover churches, heritage pubs and historic buildings.
• Walk through charming towns rich in stories dating back more than 200 years.
• Experience authentic country hospitality.
• Experience heritage streetscapes and scenic river landscapes.
• Combine history, culture, shopping and dining in one relaxing day trip.

Discover the Hawkesbury with this suggested travel route

• Collect car from WSI Airport.
• Drive to Australia's Oldest Church - Ebenezer Church. From Wednesday to Sunday enjoy a delicious homemade devonshire tea.
• Make your way to Windsor. Follow the self-guided Windsor Heritage Highlights walk.
• Visit the Hawkesbury Regional Museum and learn about the stories and people that have shaped the region.
• Browse Windsor's charming boutiques, galleries and specialty stores.
• Enjoy a meal at the Macquarie Arms - the oldest licenced pub on mainland Australia.
• Take the five minute drive to the historic town of Richmond and enjoy the self-guided Richmond Heritage Highlights walk.
• Finish the day relaxing beside the water at Pughs Lagoon - a quiet spot close to Richmond.

Travel Tips

• Check opening hours before you visit, as some museums, galleries and historic buildings have limited operating times.
• Plan time to stop for lunch or coffee before 2pm.
• Visit midweek for a quieter experience, or on weekends to enjoy local markets and events (where available).
• Be mindful that some heritage buildings are places of worship.

Leave extra time to browse local boutiques and stores—you may find more than you expected!

FAQs

Where can I find the self-guided Windsor Heritage Highlights walk?
https://www.discoverthehawkesbury.com.au/heritage/heritage-trails/hawkesbury-river-towns-heritage-highlights/HeritageHighlights_Windsor_.pdf

Where can I find the self-guided Richmond Heritage Highlights walk?
https://www.discoverthehawkesbury.com.au/heritage/heritage-trails/hawkesbury-river-towns-heritage-highlights/HeritageHighlights_Richmond_.pdf

Where is Ebenezer Church located?
93 Coromandel Road, Ebenezer

What can i do there?
The church is open each day for visitors who are welcome to take a self-guided tour pamphlet from the porch.   Devonshire tea is available for purchase and can be enjoyed in the from volunteers who keep the shop in the Schoolmaster’s House open Wednesday to Sunday, except for Good Friday and a few days near Christmas.
More information can be found here:
www.ebenezerchurch.org.au

What is Pughs Lagoon?
Pugh's Lagoon is a small, scenic wetland within Smith Park, Richmond. The lagoon has grassy banks and mature trees. The park is a peaceful recreation space where you can stop for a picnic and the bird watching is also nice.

Why is the Hawkesbury significant to Australia's colonial history?
The Hawkesbury played a vital role in the survival of Australia's early European settlement. In 1789, Governor Arthur Phillip explored the Hawkesbury River in search of fertile farmland to support the young colony, naming the river after British statesman Lord Hawkesbury.
The region was settled soon after, becoming one of the colony's most important food-producing areas. Today, these historic towns preserve much of the Hawkesbury's rich colonial heritage and offer visitors a unique glimpse into Australia's early history.

Want more?

A detailed itinerary can be obtained by contacting the Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre.
Email discover@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au or call the Visitor Centre on 02 4560 4620 or stop in at 328 Hawkesbury Valley Way Richmond NSW 2756 Open 7 days 9-4pm.

Disclaimer The Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre provides this information as a guide only and make every effort to ensure accuracy. Information provided may change or vary and the centre will not accept responsibility for such variations. No responsibility is taken for cancelled, missed or delayed flights resulting from airline schedule changes.