Things to do in Scone and the Upper Hunter

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

What to do while your with us

We're surrounded by World Heritage wilderness, award-winning wineries, great dining options, characterful towns and villages so you're spoilt for choice. Take a look through our suggestions below on what to do when staying with us at the Lodge.

Explore fascinating Upper Hunter Country

The Upper Hunter is renowned horse country, a great place to leave the world behind.

Surrounded by World Heritage wilderness, award-winning wineries, historic towns and villages and renowned horse studs, plus a calendar of events throughout the year, you are spoilt for choice while staying with us.

Visit Aussie Ark in the Upper Hunter

Aussie Ark

Aussie Arc was created in 2011 to focus on saving the Tasmanian Devil from extinction. Since then it has grown to support the future of all threatened Australian species. Tours are available that give you entry to the free-range enclosure enabling you to view a range of our native animals within a natural habitat.

Visit Barrington Tops National Park

Barrington Tops National Park

The rainforests of Barrington Tops National Park are of international significance, forming part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. Boasting the most diverse environment in Australia – western grasslands, alpine regions, antarctic beech forests, sub tropical forests – the park rises to over 1500m and includes picnic and barbecue areas, hiking and cycling trails, and fishing between October and May.

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Burning Mountain

In First Nation legend Burning Mountain is the fiery tears of a woman turned to stone by the sky god, Biami, and early European explorers assumed it was an active volcano. It’s actually a combusting coal seam that has been billowing smoke for an estimated 5,500 years. It’s also home to stunning views and great walking trails.

Visit a camel farm in the Upper Hunter

Camel Tours

Take a day trip to this picturesque local property and historic homestead, with stunning views of the surrounding area. Enjoy a unique safari experience, up close and personal with the resident rescue camels, and explore the range of camel milk products available. Tours run Thurs, Fri, Sat from 11am. Bookings essential.

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Darcy and the Fox Studio

David Darcy took up painting after a successful career in photography, publishing and film, going on to win many accolades including the Archibald Prize ANZ People’s Choice award. Darcy and the Fox in Murrurundi is a curated collection of art, antiques and unique products, and a great opportunity to view David’s stunning portraits.

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Historic Towns and Villages

The scenic Upper Hunter is home to many small towns and villages containing historic features and providing an opportunity to connect with both nature and a rural lifestyle. We are perfectly located to explore these locales. Some of our favourites are Merriwa, Cassilis, Gundy, Moonan Flats, Jerrys Plains, Denman, Murrurundi and Wingen.

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Hunter Belle Cheese

All of the award-winning artisan cheese at family-owned Hunter Belle is handmade using traditional methods and fresh milk from Brown Swiss cows. You can view the cheese making process and purchase products from the onsite shop. The licensed cafe is open 7 days serving a delicious menu that showcases Hunter Belle Cheese produce.

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Hunter Warbirds

The Hunter Warbirds “aviation experience” is a new attraction for the area with an evolving display of active aircraft. A large, purpose-built hangar currently houses a range of aircraft, various artefact displays and dioramas, and two high-end flight simulators. The museum is open throughout the week, with tours available and a cafe.

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Lake Glenbawn

Lake Glenbawn is a nature lover’s paradise with abundant and diverse wildlife in a natural bush setting. It provides a habitat for over 100 bird species and is one of the best freshwater fishing spots in NSW. It’s also the perfect location for waterspouts including boating, canoeing, sailing, waterskiing and wind surfing.

Visit Michael Reid Murrurundi

Michael Reid Murrurundi

Contemporary art dealer Michael Reid established this art gallery, cafe and concept store within a beautiful garden in charming Murrurundi. The gallery features regular exhibitions and art for sale. In the concept store the ethos is “handmade and Australian design and craftsmanship” with a curated collection of products.

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Hollydene Estate

Hollydene Estate is a beautiful spot to spend a day out. With an expansive selection of locally grown, highly rated wines we recommend visiting their Cellar Door for tastings. Hollydene Estate produce a huge range of wines including sparkling, whites, res and dessert wines. All available for purchase. And we highly recommend their restaurant, Vines.

Visit Washpools Waterhole

Washpools Waterhole

About 500m from the Washpools Picnic Area in Towarri National Park you’ll find a natural, shallow waterhole cut into the rock, measuring about 1m wide and 10m long. Long ago it was used by graziers to wash sheep prior to shearing, hence the name. Enjoy a picnic and take a dip in the clear waters, surrounded by bushland and birdsong (no sheep!).

Visit Upper Hunter wineries

Small Forest Wine

Atsuko Radcliffe, Japan’s first female winemaker and sake expert, is at the helm of this delightful vineyard. Small Forest produces four award-winning wines – Verdelho, Chardonnay, Rose and Shiraz. Plus a few available only at the cellar door. Local artists are also exhibited plus local produce and Japanese craft items. Cellar Door open weekends only.

Stone Hill Vineyard

Stone Hill Vineyard

Len Coluccio from Stone Hill Vineyard in Merriwa brings a touch of Italy to the Upper Hunter. Alongside Italian varietals you can enjoy magnificent Mediterranean Food.
Stone Hill is open from 11am to 5pm, 7 days a week.

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Horse Riding

We are in the heart of horse country. If you’re keen to get on horseback during your stay, we recommend nearby Kihope Riding Centre. Book the ‘Outback Experience’ and explore the picturesque scenery of Banool Angas Park where you’ll find spectacular views with post-ride drinks, damper and snacks provided.

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Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Scone Race Club

The 1902m racing surface at Scone Racecourse is known as the best country circuit in NSW. 16 TAB race meetings are conducted per year, including the two-day Darley Scone Cup Carnival, the pinnacle of Country Racing in the state. First class facilities with spectacular views are available for guests on race day.

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Merriwa Race Club

Merriwa Race Club is one of the oldest race clubs in NSW, with races in Merriwa as early as the 1870s. The only event is the popular Merriwa Cup, held annually in April. A range of entertainment is scheduled for race day, such as fashions on the field and a calcutta event. The club sits on a plateau with lovely views over the town and surrounding countryside.

Scone's Best Accommodation - Strathearn Park Lodge

Muswellbrook Race Club

Award-winning Muswellbrook Race Club was established in 1862 and features a spacious 2010m track. 18 race meetings are held annually, including the Muswellbrook Gold Cup 1500m in November. Beautifully manicured gardens, shaded lawn spectator areas and full facilities make the Muswellbrook races a great day out.

What to do while you stay with us

Whether you have the kids or just want to wind down and relax, there is something for everyone in the Upper Hunter.