Hunter Valley Wine Country
Historic Villages, Sites & Museums
The first sighting of the Hunter River by European settlers was in 1797, when it was discovered by chance by Lieutenant John Shortland during a search for escaped convicts. The Hunter Valley’s initial value was as a source of timber and coal for the steamships that provided much of the transport for Sydney and its surroundings.
By 1823 some 20 acres of vineyards had already been planted on the northern banks of the river and what is now the Dalwood /Gresford area between Maitland and Singleton.
From these beginnings, the Hunter Valley flourished, with several families establishing vineyards in the area. The Tyrrell, Wilkinson and Drayton families’ history all started in the latter part of the 19th century as did the viticultural pursuits of Dr Henry Lindeman.
To find out more about the history of the area, browse the listings below.
Select a listing for for full details.
Welcome to the Convict Trail, the convict built Great North Road and its surrounds. On your way to or from Sydney take tourist route 33 to drive or walk in the footsteps of the convicts who built the first road to the Hunter. Admire the massive structures that still carry the road today. Imagine the work involved in building these structures by hand. Always there with something for everyone, from those just wanting a slower paced scenic drive to the serious convict buff wanting to examine early 1830s convict built dry stone walls and hand cut drains. See our website for self guided tour e-brochures.
Locality: Wollombi Valley
A key anchor attraction of the Hunter, Maitland Gaol has a vibrant history spanning more than 150 years. After housing some of Australia's most hardened and notorious criminals, Maitland Gaol closed in 1998. The cell doors have now been swung open, with visitors invited to 'serve time' learning about the facility, past prisoners and daring escapes.
Open for public inspection every day, Maitland Gaol offers visitors the opportunity to indulge in a world-class, self-guided audio tour.
Display and sales of unique locally handcrafted items in Cessnock's oldest sawn timber home - a charming heritage listed building.
Locality: Cessnock & Districts
Welcome to Oakvale Wines, open seven days a week from 10am - 5pm. Our friendly and knowledgable staff will happily guide you through our range of wines and explain Hunter wine styles and tastes.
Why not enjoy a cup of coffee and let the kids enjoy our playground. Or you can take the kids on a historical tour of our 'Old Shop Museum' displaying many items from retail shops of the 1900's.
Our cellar door has wine tasting available for groups and we offer a very 'entertaining' tasting with something for everyone's palate.
Make sure you add Oakvale Wines to your 'must see' list next time your in the Hunter Valley.
Locality: Pokolbin/Rothbury
Visit the unique historic township of Wollombi, that has always been an important centre for travellers along the Great North Road.
Explore the Convict Trail. See Wollombi's fine architectural heritage bolstered by cafes, wineries and comfortable guesthouses and cottages, not to mention Wollombi Tavern - home of Dr Jurds Jungle Juice!
Explore the history of Wollombi by following the towns walking trail - maps available at the Endeavour Museum.
Go bushwalking and see Aboriginal rock carvings at Devils Rock and Finchley Trig in Yengo National Park.
Locality: Wollombi Valley
James Halliday - Five Stars
One of the most historic properties in the Hunter Valley, with breathtaking 360 degrees views.
The beautifully appointed property includes a museum, tasting room as well as picnic facilities.
Locality: Pokolbin/Rothbury
