Hunter Valley Culture and Heritage
First planted with vineyards in the early 1820s, the Hunter Valley is rich with heritage and culture. Follow walking trails past historic buildings and ancient Aboriginal art, learn about the region’s past at museums and see the work of local artists in boutique galleries.
Historic towns
Explore beautiful gardens and historic buildings on the Singleton Heritage Walk. The exquisite Sisters of Mercy Covent is a living heritage site, open for tours and concerts. Wollombi retains many of its colonial buildings, including St Michael’s Church, St John’s Church and the Endeavour Museum inside the former courthouse.
Aboriginal heritage
Take the Finchley Cultural Walk through the Yengo National Park and find Aboriginal rock engravings in lush bushland. Learn about the local Aboriginal history and culture on a Girra Girra Culture Experience tour or at the Wollombi Cultural Centre. Or join local artists on the Wupa Aboriginal Art Trail between November and May.
Museums and galleries
Discover railway treasures at the Richmond Vale Railway Museum, which hosts events during Steamfest in April and locomotive-loving events throughout the year. The Australian Army Infantry Museum houses a fascinating collection, from rare Great War relics to modern displays.
Enjoy the work of local emerging and established artists and see touring National exhibits at the Cessnock Regional Art Gallery. The Gallery runs art classes for adults and children, as well as talks and events celebrating the inspiring exhibitions.
You can see more cultural and local artwork at the Marthaville Arts and Cultural Centre and Ogishi Craft Centre. Kurri Kurri also has incredible outdoor murals, featuring over 50 outdoor public artworks. Explore these on a guided mural tour.