We just got back from our epic jaunt in the Country Music Capital of Australia, Tamworth, with many a tale to tell, and many a recommendation too. So pack your bags, and turn on that ‘country vibes’ playlist, coz Tamworth is where it’s at.
Tamworth isn’t just about country music though. Nestled in between the breathtaking Warrabah and Mount Kaputar national parks, Tamworth is surrounded by beauty. Your Tamworth itinerary isn’t just about sinking a few coldies at the local pub; it’s about enjoying the region’s wines, food, views and hospitality!
We’ve teamed up with Virgin Australia Holidays to bring you the insiders guide to Tamworth.
Tamworth sits smack bang on the New South Wales agricultural belt, so it’s primed to pick the best of the best when it comes to produce. And boy does it show in their food…
The Taste Of Tamworth Festival
1-10 April
The Taste of Tamworth Festival rolls into Tamworth this April and acts as the perfect intro to the region’s food calibre. The festival shines light on Tamworth’s tastiest restaurants and vineyards to show out-of-towners that Tamworth truly does trump them all in the food stakes.
Gregory’s Restaurant
Gregory’s Restaurant takes all of your country pub stereotypes and chucks them right out. No, Gregory’s is not like other pubs. The only dose of country you’ll be getting here is the timber floors and warm hospitality. The food is top notch and incorporates locally sourced ingredients to shift your perception of small town fare.
CH on Peel
CH on Peel takes full advantage of the produce on offer to serve up their Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-inspired flavours. CH on Peel pair their meals with locals wines too, winning!
The Old Bell Tower
Housed in a revamped church, The Old Bell Tower is our pick of breakfast spots in Tamworth. Start your day off the right way with a big brekky in a church – what could be better?
Tamworth is conveniently located in one of the country’s most picturesque regions, meaning that your days will be filled with getting prime Insta content and loud sighing as you enjoy the sights.
Vineyards
Tamworth’s backyard is home to more than 20 cellar doors. So naturally, your trip must include a wine-tasting tour de Tamworth. Due to Tamworth’s choice weather you’ll find vino faves such as Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Shiraz and Pinot Noir pouring in the region’s vineyards. Lucky for you, we know wine, so we’ve got your back, try these: Blickling Estate, Merilba Estate Wines and Eastview Estates (which comes complete with a speak-easy style bar).
New England Brewing Company
No town is legit unless they have their own brewery. Tamworth is no exception to the rule with the epic New England Brewing Company. They operate out of a converted woolstore to produce handcrafted, preservative free and unfiltered beers. Now we’re not saying the beers here are healthy, but hey – they’re close. Check them out for a tasting or a tour.
Arc-en-Ciel Trout Farm
Arc-en-Ciel Trout Farm is home not only to the region’s – but also the country’s – finest rainbow trout. It’s not surprising really – these lucky fish have it pretty sweet in their natural spring water. You can catch and cook your own dinner here, or you can simply sample the produce with trout smoked over smouldering stringy-bark, pate, caviar and all the other trouty goodness you can imagine.
Sunhill Dairy Goats Farm
No trip to Tamworth is complete without hanging out with some adorable goats, let’s be real. At the Sunhill Dairy Goats Farm you’ll be able to mingle with the goats and taste the local produce (all the goats cheese) and try out handmade goats milk skin products. Embark on a farm tour and a milking demo too while you’re at it.
Mount Kaputar
Mount Kaputar (an extinct volcano) is a great spot to soak up the beauty of the Tamworth region. In spring you’ll find the National Park carpeted with fields of Insta-worthy wild flowers. In the warmer months, head to Horton Falls for a picturesque dip to cool off. Not to mention the drive from Tamworth into the area is seriously stunning, bring your camera, people!
CH On Peel Boutique Hotel
Boutique hotels aren’t just a capital city thing. CH on Peel is hot real estate, sitting on Tamworth’s main drag. With an art deco vibe and a seriously yum restaurant and bar on site CH On Peel has your stay in Tamworth sorted.
Ashby House Motor Inn
Historic property, Ashby House, isn’t your run of the mill motor inn. Think manicured gardens, a historic manor and four stars. It’s the perfect setting to play out your country fantasy.
Getting there is easier than your daily commute to work with Virgin Australia Holidays. With packages including accommodation and return airfares all you need to do is sit back and enjoys the region's wines. Too easy!
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