Nestled on the Macquarie River some 200 km west of Sydney, Bathurst is Australia’s oldest inland settlement and a vibrant hub of history, motorsport lore, and natural beauty. If you’re drawn by the roar of engines at Mount Panorama, the allure of colonial-era architecture, or easy access to national parks and caves, Bathurst promises a diverse array of experiences. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this dynamic regional city.

Things to Do in Bathurst

1. Rev Your Engines at Mount Panorama Circuit

Bathurst’s most iconic landmark is the Mount Panorama motor racing circuit, home to the legendary Bathurst 1000 and Bathurst 12 Hour endurance races. Even if you’re not visiting on race weekend, you can:

• Drive or ride the course (outside race events) to feel the elevation changes and famous corners like “The Esses” and “The Dipper”.

• Book a guided track tour with one of several operators who share insider stories and pit‑lane access.

• Visit the National Motor Racing Museum, where historic race cars, driver memorabilia, and interactive exhibits chronicle Bathurst’s motorsport heritage.

2. Step Back in Time on the Bathurst Heritage Trail

Bathurst boasts well‑preserved Georgian and Victorian buildings that tell the story of early colonial life:

• Keightley’s Gate and the Chancery Square precinct feature elegant sandstone facades from the 1830s–1850s.

• The St John’s Anglican Cathedral, with its gothic spire, is a highlight of William Wardell’s ecclesiastical architecture.

• Wander between Curzon Street terraces, the Bathurst Courthouse, and the charming Garrison Arms Hotel, stopping at interpretive signs that explain each site’s significance.

3. Unearth Ancient Secrets at the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum

Just off Keppel Street, this boutique museum houses one of the world’s most important private collections of:

• Dinosaur fossils (including the only complete plesiosaur skeleton on display in Australia)

• Hand‑specimens of ores and gemstones, showcasing Bathurst’s geological heritage

• Interactive displays that engage both kids and adults in paleontology and mineralogy

4. Enjoy Riverside Relaxation in Machattie Park

Machattie Park is a picturesque Victorian‑style garden right in the city center:

• Stroll through rose gardens, bandstands, and tranquil lawned areas designed for picnics.

• Time your visit for a weekend brass‑band concert or a community festival on the main lawn.

• Nearby cafés along Keppel Street make it easy to grab a coffee or lunch to enjoy under the trees.

5. Tour Abercrombie House

A short drive north of Bathurst, Abercrombie House is a grand Victorian mansion set on picturesque gardens:

• Join a guided house tour to learn about the Stewart family who built it in the 1870s.

• Wander the formal courtyards, rose gardens, and historic outbuildings.

• Check their calendar for Afternoon Teas or murder‑mystery weekends that bring the mansion’s stories to life.

6. Venture Underground at Jenolan Caves

One of the world’s oldest cave systems, Jenolan Caves is a 90‑minute drive from Bathurst:

• Explore show‑caves like Lucas Cave and River Cave, with their stunning calcite formations.

• Book an Adventure Caving tour for tighter passages and spelunking thrills.

• Stay overnight in the on‑site heritage lodge to experience early‑morning guided walks before the crowds arrive.

7. Discover Regional Art at Bathurst Regional Art Gallery

Housed in the beautifully restored Old Fire Station, the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery showcases:

• Contemporary Australian artists in rotating exhibitions

• Local Indigenous artworks, highlighting Wiradjuri cultural heritage

• Workshops and artist talks that make art accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages

8. Hike and Bike in National Parks

Bathurst is the gateway to several state parks:

• Mount Panorama walks (try the scenic Crago Loop) offer city views and glimpses of native wildlife.

• Kanangra‑Boyd National Park to the southeast boasts dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and overnight bushwalks.

• Sofala Road cycle routes, starting just outside town, take you through rolling farmland and historic gold‑rush settlements.

9. Shop and Dine in Lively Downtown Precincts

Bathurst’s culinary scene is both sophisticated and down‑to‑earth:

• Bread & Circus Artisan Bakery for freshly baked sourdough and pastries.

• Sulis Restaurant at the Mercure Bathurst: Modern Australian tasting menus using local produce.

• Quaint boutiques and galleries offer handmade crafts, antiques, and locally roasted coffee to fuel your explorations.

10. Experience Local Festivals

 

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Bathurst hosts a variety of annual events that draw visitors from across the state:

• Bathurst 1000 (October) – Australia’s premier V8 Supercar endurance race

• Winter Festival (June) – Ice skating, light displays, and alpine‑inspired food stalls

• Peabody Exhibition (January) – A community arts festival featuring live music, markets, and street performances

Frequently Asked Questions About Bathurst

1. Where is Bathurst located?

Bathurst sits on the Macquarie River in central New South Wales, Australia—about 200 kilometres west of Sydney. It’s easily reached via the Great Western Highway or the Blue Mountains rail line.

2. What is Bathurst famous for?

Bathurst is best known for the Mount Panorama motor racing circuit and the annual Bathurst 1000 touring‑car race. It’s also celebrated as Australia’s oldest inland settlement, with rich colonial architecture and gold‑rush history.

3. When is the best time to visit Bathurst?

• Spring (September–November) brings mild days, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds.

• Autumn (March–May) offers crisp air, colourful foliage, and clear views from hilltop lookouts.

• Race weekend (October) is thrilling but crowded—book well in advance if attending.

4. How do I get to Mount Panorama and watch a race?

Mount Panorama is a public road outside race events, so you can drive or ride the circuit any time of year. To attend the Bathurst 1000 or 12 Hour, purchase grand‑stand or general‑admission tickets through the official Supercars website and arrive early for best viewing spots.

5. What other motorsport attractions are there?

Visit the National Motor Racing Museum at the foot of the circuit for historic race cars and memorabilia. Guided track tours offered year‑round by local operators, include pit‑lane access and inside stories on Bathurst’s racing legacy.

6. Are there family‑friendly activities in Bathurst?

Yes. Families enjoy:

• Jenolan Caves tours (1.5 hr drive) with easy walking paths and adventure caving.

• Machattie Park playgrounds and open lawns.

• Australian Fossil & Mineral Museum with dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits.

7. What historic sites can I explore in Bathurst?

Take the Bathurst Heritage Trail through Keppel Street, Curzon Street, and Chancery Square to see Georgian and Victorian buildings. Highlights include the Old Courthouse, St John’s Cathedral, and restored terrace houses at Keightley’s Gate.

Final Thoughts

Bathurst is a destination of surprising depth, where the thrill of motorsport sits alongside tranquil parks, where colonial history meets contemporary art, and where natural wonders lie just beyond the city limits.