Discover Gloucester

Gloucester brings together local history, walks, art and nature experiences. When planning your trip, you can choose from a short introduction to the parks and attractions, historic walks and longer routes along the river. You can also factor train travel and nearby activities into your plans.

Getting there and getting oriented

NSW TrainLink trains stop at Gloucester Railway Station. As timetables can change, check the latest information from NSW TrainLink before travelling. The Gloucester Visitor Information Centre provides advice on accommodation, tours, things to do, attractions and events. As offerings and contact options can change, it is worth checking briefly before planning a visit there.

History and art in Gloucester

Several historical themes come together at the Gloucester Museum: its collection preserves artefacts dating from the early European settlement period back to 1826; the displays also include the history of gold mining. This lets you explore historical objects and the development of an important industry in one visit.

The Gloucester Mosaics Walk presents the town’s history through artworks. This self-guided walk depicts stories from the earliest days to the present. The Gloucester Town Heritage Walk offers a different historical focus: it runs through the main area of the hill where the early business district developed. For directions along the route, check the local signage.

Gloucester Court House is also part of the town’s historic character. It is listed on the local heritage register and retains its original woodwork and furnishings. Gloucester Gallery is housed in the historic School of Arts building and presents monthly exhibitions by local artists and community groups. The exhibition program can change; check in advance what will be on display during your visit.

Walks and activities

The Gloucester Boomerang Discovery Walk takes about an hour and offers an introduction to the town’s parks and attractions. It starts at the Visitor Centre and goes along Church Street, past the hydrotherapy pool, Minimbah Gardens, the Human Sundial, Camellia Grove and Pioneer Memorial Gardens, as well as the suspension bridge and Billabong Park. The approximate duration can help with planning your day; route conditions and starting options may change.

For a different view of the town, take the 1.5-kilometre Gloucester District Park Walk along the Gloucester River. Gloucester District Park also has a fitness circuit and a parkrun route. The park also includes the Olympic Pool Complex with a heated hydrotherapy centre. Facilities and operations may change; check the latest information before visiting.

The two walks differ mainly in character: the Boomerang Discovery Walk links several named locations in town, while the District Park Walk is described as a riverside walk. Which route suits your day therefore also depends on whether you would rather focus on parks and attractions or use the river as your reference point.

Scenery and surroundings

Gloucester is known as Dark Sky Country. Actual sky conditions vary. Nearby, the Bucketts Scenic Walk offers panoramic views over Gloucester Valley; sections of the walk are considered steep and challenging. This information is useful if you would like to include a scenic walk in your plans.

The Barrington River meets the Gloucester River in Gloucester. There are opportunities for canoeing and kayaking there; water conditions vary seasonally. For wine tastings in the area, Mograni Creek Estate Winery offers visits by appointment for individuals or groups. Cheese platters can be provided by prior arrangement. Confirm the visit arrangements in advance.

Whether your trip is focused mainly on local history, a walk or activities on the water, Gloucester offers a range of options.

Discover more destinations

Rydal, Mourquong, Coonamble, Silverton, Jagumba, Walcha, South Durras, Nelligen

For the broader travel overview: New South Wales.