Located in the New South Wales Central Tablelands, a region widely photographed, Lithgow provides beautiful views of nature in a cluster with its old-world charm. This beautiful town, set in the backdrop of the blue mountains and various natural parks, is an ideal place for adventure lovers and history lovers. Everything from breathtaking nature walks and historic landmarks to leisurely activities for families with kids to tourist destinations, Lithgow offers diverse choices. Visit the stunning national parks that are nearby to learn about the industrial history of the town or walk around and enjoy the beautiful and calm atmosphere of the place. The information below outlines the best things to do in Lithgow, the charming and culturally rich town.
Top 6 Best Things To Do In Lithgow
Lithgow is located close to the Blue Mountains and several national parks, making it a versatile tourist destination. From adventurous hiking trails to walking through the industrial history of Lithgow to exciting family activities, Lithgow will not disappoint. To help you make the most of your stay, listed below are the top 6 things to do in Lithgow.
1. Lithgow Small Arms Factory Museum
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Lithgow Small Arms Factory Museum was founded in 1912. The museum has a collection of many different firearms, both military and sporting firearms, and shows weapons production during major historical events and periods, including the two World Wars. The historical aspects of the manufacturing process and technologies used are also described in detail. However, tours available to the visitors provide comprehensive details on the factory’s history and the people working for it. The museum is located on the former factory complex, about 2.5 hours west of Sydney.
Point To Be Noted: It is recommended that you visit the museum’s website or call them to learn more about the current visiting times, as these may change.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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2. Hassans Walls Lookout
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At Hassans Walls Lookout one can enjoy some of the wonderful scenic panoramas of the Blue Mountains and the valleys including the Hartley Valley and the Mount York. It is easily accessible by car along with a car park nearby and quite simple facilities such as picnic tables. Other activities that the visitors can undertake include bushwalking along the several walking tracks which are available for this activity and bird watching because the place is a darling for photographers, especially in the early morning or in the evening. This is about a 10-minute drive away from Lithgow’s centre through Hassans’ Walls Road; it is recommended to check the weather before going up there to make sure it is safe.
Point to be noted: Keep an eye on the safety signs, as steep cliffs are around here.
Duration: 1-2 hours
3. Blast Furnace Park
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Blast Furnace Park is a site which preserves traces of the first Australian blast furnace that was run from 1886 to 1928. This heritage park is an ideal place to get a feel of ancient industrial development in the region; it boasts ruins, information boards and interpretive installations narrating the story of Lithgow’s iron and steel industries. Richly endowed with walking paths and a picnic zone, it is perfect for a quiet take to see Australia’s historical development, especially with regard to this area’s contribution to the rise of industrialization. It is conveniently located with an opportunity to explore historical sites and engage in several outdoor activities.
Point to be noted: The place tells the story of how Australia’s iron and steel industry played a big part in shaping the nation.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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4. Eskbank House Museum
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Eskbank House Museum is a historic site unique in its paradigm of presenting the lifestyle in the 19th century. The local museum is located in an immaculately restored Victorian-style house of 1842 that belonged to some of the city’s most influential inhabitants. The museum’s pieces include a wide range of utensils, furniture, clothing, pictures and other items relevant to the period’s life and social setting. Tourism is also common where visitors are allowed to tour the beautiful rooms, and gardens, and also learn the past history of such regions through which the tour guides and information are displayed. Eskbank House Museum is a good example of cultural and educational entertainment for those eager to learn about the history of Australia and its early stages.
Point to be noted: Check the museum’s opening hours before you head out. They might change from time to time.
Duration: 1-2 hours
5. Berghofers Pass
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Just off the Great Western Highway, to the southeast of Lithgow proper, you can walk a 4.5-kilometre stretch of early highway. Berghofer’s Pass is one of the Historical Crossings Walk Blue Mountains, and the construction of this crossing was between 1907 and 1912. Mitchell’s Victoria Pass was considered to be too steep a grade for early motor vehicles thus, German immigrant J. W. Berghofer planned to construct a new pass. Meandering around Mount York, Berghofer’s Pass contained a sequence of tight curves that were soon considered to be dangerous for modern, high-powered cars and it was sealed off in favour of the Victoria Pass in 1934. For walkers, it is a beautiful spot with a relatively easy path that is presented as a walk up on a light gradient with trees providing overhead shade and, last but not least, the fabulous views of Hartley Valley.
Point to be noted: Get ready to deal with the conditions at high altitudes, as they can sometimes take a toll on people.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Related Post: Art Gallery Of New South Wales
6. The Zig Zag Railway
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The Zig Zag Railway is an old and picturesque railway which can be noted for its creative and unique construction as well as magnificent views. If first built in the 1860s, the engineering was specifically intended for the Blue Mountains where there were many steep gradients, where rails went up in several curves and zigzags so as to keep going at a slow but steady pace. Today, the railway is widely used as a place of interest as it offers beautiful train rides describing the beauty of the places in the region. The history of the place has been retained through restoration thus passing a message to the considerable number of visitors the details of early railway engineering and at the same time offering them a ride through one of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
Point to be noted: Check the schedule and book tickets beforehand. As they have limited seats and specific departures.
Duration: 3-4 hours
You May Also Like To Read: Hiking in New South Wales
Book your Lithgow holiday now! Visit the Lithgow Small Arms Factory Museum, which displays interesting collections. Go for nature walks and explore the beauty of the region, as well as everything else that this beautiful town has to offer. Refer to this article and begin planning your trip to Australia to enjoy your travel adventure and various things to do in Lithgow.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Lithgow
What are the best restaurants in Lithgow?
Lithgow has several eating places ranging from cafes such as The Lithgow Workmen’s Club for a casual meal to fine dining restaurants such as The Blind Chef. There is a variation of restaurants specializing in different meals to meet every individual’s and group’s palate and prices.
When is the best time to go to Lithgow?
It is recommended to visit Lithgow in spring and autumn because the climate is comparatively favourable. Summer can be really hot while in winter it may get extremely cold, especially in the surrounding mountains.
Are there any festivals or local markets that I can visit in Lithgow?
Lithgow also has several markets and festivals that are held in this city some of them include the Lithgow Markets which comprises local products and handmade specialities and the Lithgow Show which is an agricultural show as well as a social event.
What are the available local shopping centers that are around Lithgow?
Local shopping is the shopping done in individual stores and shops within the town such as garment shops, gifts, antiques and other crafts. The Lithgow Mall is a commercial complex that provides various shops and facilities.
Are there any local wineries or breweries to visit in Lithgow?
The nearby Mudgee region is known for its wineries and vineyards. Lithgow also has some local pubs and craft breweries where you can try regional beers and spirits.
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