Fun things to do in Newcastle: 34 fun attractions and activities

Newcastle Museum closed on Mondays and opening on Tuesdays to Sundays from 10am to 5pm The are three main exhibition halls displaying different themes of historical life. Such as mining, garments, immigration generations and etc. Parking at the Paid open carpark then walking 2 minutes to it. I have a good overall time there with my family and I would like to recommend it for tourists travelling from other cities to Newcastle in Australia.

Kids had a ball after complaining when I suggested they take a look (I had to bribe them with icecream to visit). The sciece area was a hit and the steel pouring assimilation was cool! Very enjoyable and free!

Great museum and friendly stuff. I enjoyed the science section as well as the metallurgy and coal section. The metallurgy section had a really cool demonstration of the smelting that was done in Newcastle. It's a fantastic demonstration with lights and smoke machine 🙂. Way better than expected.

Excellent. Not large, but they do a lot with a small space! Definitely pay for the model exhibition, that was wonderful.

Great museum with free entry to visit and explore, definitely worth visiting. Staffs are friendly and helpful too.

Love the Model T, and the steelworks history. The science section was also fun. They have a good display of the German influence on the Hunter as well.

The museum here entry was very cheap. By cheap I mean free 😋 when you think free you’re gonna think it’s like ehhhh but this place was honestly a fantastic day trip. I had fun :D BONUS: I got to sit on the train. Chooo choooooo 🚂

Blackbut Reserve is such an amazing place for nature and photography lovers. You can spot plenty of wildlife, from birds to wallabies, making photo hunting really exciting. The atmosphere is calm, green, and relaxing-perfect for a walk while carrying your camera. It's also a great place for families, a fun walk with friends, or just to enjoy a refreshing day outdoors. Truly a fun and memorable spot for everyone.

I visited this place on a lovely afternoon and had an amazing experience. The parking was convenient and well-organized. Birds and different animals were freely around the area, which made it both exciting and enjoyable to watch. The pleasant sound of birds created a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. There were also great facilities for barbecue and seating, making it a perfect spot to spend time. The weather was wonderful, and everything together made it a truly memorable visit.

Great bit of nature near to town with bus links. Good experience for kids to see some amazing animals up close and get into nature. Some really nice mid distance walks as well if that's what you're after.

I spent a lovely morning at the Blackbutt Nature Reserve and it was great! We saw wallabies, one koala, emus and much more. The park in itself is really nice and very well organized. It’s perfect for families with kids ! We finished our morning having lunch at the park, as there are many pic nic tables. The reserve is free but the parking lot is around 6$ by hour. We had a coffee and a matcha at the cafe there and it was not really good … we also waited a lot.

Great bush walking opportunities at this reserve plus children's adventure playgrounds, BBQ and picnic tables, many native Australian animals to see plus a new Cafe to relax and enjoy brunch or a take away toastie and coffee or cake. The residential peacock's and bush turkeys roam wild.

Nice park with relaxing area with a playground near the cafe. Many beautiful birds and a paved pathway to see various animals. We saw birds, kangaroos, emus, reptiles and a koala. It was busy but festive on the weekend we went. Overall a great place to visit.

Great for a family day out or a place to hang with friends. There are plenty of spots to sit and have a picnic, including picnic tables. Kids area is great. Cafe has a good selection - all sorts of flavoured croissants, biscuits and cakes, as well as a full menu of breakfast and lunch food. I had a Nutella cookie and it was extremely good! The main nature walk includes koalas, wallabys, lizards, frogs, and birds of all sorts. The emu and kangaroo area is always good to walk around. There are plenty of walking tracks through the reserve. Entry is free, but parking is not. Not really any public transport options, and the road outside the reserve is pretty dangerous to try to cross and theres minimal space to walk on that side of the road. Very much not walkable to there if you live nearby.

Absolutely wonderful tunnel tour for $15 per adult. The historical society volunteer guides are great and explaining everything and happy to answer any questions. They’ve done a wonderful job at keeping the fort open to the public and restoring a huge piece of local history. Amazing views from the top with plenty of ocean life to watch. Would highly recommend.

Such a wonderful place to visit!! Would highly recommend going there. We had a great day. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Thank you 🙏

Loved the fort, it was awesome to see a real piece of history and how our land was protected. It's free to walk around but need to pay for the tunnels, which are pretty cool as well. If you go before 1:00pm make sure you stick around as there is the one o'clock gun that goes off.

Stunning views and interesting and insiteful opportunity to learn about the history of Newcastle. Free entry and parking. Great place to take children.

Great place, very well taken cared and shown by a very enthusiastic staff of volunters, witnessed the 13:00p cannon shot followed by a guided visit to the tunnels, that's really the part you have to pay for,the fortress itself is free, but if you ask me it's absolutely worth every cent.

Admission is free, and the staff at the front gate are very friendly, welcoming us and providing some additional information. The panoramic view from the top is truly awesome, and I highly recommend a visit when you are in Newcastle.

Fantastic history and great views. Highly recommend coming for a visit. All volunteers are very friendly and are keen to chat.

Wonderful views of a nice ocean pool rich in history. Would be nice if there was some signage to explain the history. Very steep stairs and platform for access to the water. Gets plenty of flushing from the ocean as any waves splash into it. Great for viewing sunset and whales/dolphins and seals at.

Beautiful place to visit in the evening. The breeze and beach view is amazing. If you are swimmer, this is the place for you to take a dip and enjoy running sea water. And you can wave at skydiving people as well.

A nice surprise at the end of the memorial walk. A green rock pool with rough waves pounding its side mercilessly. I saw groups of people descending to the pool swimming and snorkeling. Even some dogs enjoyed a bit of water actions.

Fantastic place for a swim or a relaxing afternoon lazing on the rocks. Not alot of places to stash you stuff. Water is cold, but enjoyable on a warm day. Bit of a walk from the roadway, but nothing to strenuous. Avoid cutting through the gardens as it leads to some high terraces to get down.

Absolutely awesome place! Waves crush in and the pool practically replenishes itself. Love it

Amazing spot to swim! We also got to see the dolphins 😍

Very pretty! Lovely to go when it warm and you want to enjoy the ocean without all the sand! Clear water. The steps may pose an issue to some with less mobility, but other than that very good! Be careful when putting your clothes on the ground, put them higher so the waves don't wet them.

It's something I've want to do for a long time and really enjoyed it. It's a great walk around the grounds. The ponds and waterways are really peaceful. The native flora and fauna is pretty, and interesting. Don't forget the Aeroguard (they have some available on site) ... the mozzies are bad!

Lovely series of ponds and swamp areas with lots of bird life. Great little cafe attached that closes at 2pm. Relatively easy walking tracks to get around them all. You can do a short walk around the closest couple of ponds or spend an hour or so to do the long walk.

It charges admission $20 for family. That said, the place is big and beautiful. Staff is very friendly. There is a cafe but closed due to C19. Lots of tracks to explore. There is a children play area and a towerm Lots of tables.and chairs. There isn't a lot of cover area so be prepared in rainy days. All tracks have no steps and no steep hills. Children are given with treasure maps to keep them excited and busy.

Great day out for the kids with ks of paths and bike riding tracks. Plenty of stuff to do with the whole family so make sure you spare a few hours. The Cafe is no longer open which is a little disappointing.

Friendly greeting as you walk in. $5 for pensioner and free maps. Coffee shop and light snacks, cakes available. First off, walk up to a closed shed upon entering, a section of frogs, lizards, snakes in fish tanks with descriptions of enclosed reptile. A short walk to a table setting to enjoy the coffee I had bought with me. The toilet here was extremely clean, large and had a nappy change as well, however apart from the info centre was the only toliet I found on my walk. A nice walk around the fenceline perimeter...lacking signage in some parts and toilets would have been helpful near the 'boat shed'. Viewing platforms here and there over a muddy creek and it appears you can hire canoes here. Grounds well maintained. At a certain point you can pass through a gate and enter rainforest sections and also nice shady boardwalk. Lots of birdlife in the ponds. Paths here and there off the main track, so didn't investigate them all. Coffee shop busy on my way out and looks like groups come in for a tour,etc. Gravel car park almost full. Short drive out from Newcastle and I would imagine a nice picnic day out for young families.

Great place to visit and haven't light meal after walking around the beautiful Wetlands eith many birds to be seen. We stopped there after leaving Camden on our way to Urunga.

The place is massive and has adventurous bush walking trails for you to enjoy. There are a number of ponds with a variety of birds and ducks. There is also a kids play area on one side. If you are a nature lover and enjoy bush walking then a perfect place for you.

It was not crowded as it was the long weekend. ( Easter Saturday) The place was very neat, clean & tidy!! The Rescuers were there!! They were very alert as they were expecting some current on a certain area!! ( the waves)The toilets were clean, tidy & kept quite alright. Many Thanks for that!! There were 2 cafes/Restaurant where you could purchase food!! We took our own food & there were decent amount of benches & chairs for us to enjoy our own food too!!This was such a lovely beach & the rescue team was very friendly!! We caught the train from Sydney, got down from New Castle & got into the light Rail !! It was so comfortable . We have to walk a very short distance from the light rail. We had a lovely day👍🏾❤️🙂🙋‍♀️ Thanks for everything!!

It's a beautiful beach with some amazing views of the ocean and the coastline. We visited this during our road trip from QLD to Melbourne. There are clean wash rooms available for public use and 30 minutes free parking is also available along the road side around here. There is also a kiosk near the steps to the beach area, where coffee, snacks, drinks etc are available when it's open.

Beautiful beach in Newcastle. You can actually some shipping vessels that are passing thru in & out. They are also surfers here. Perfect place to unwind and escape urban life.

One of beautiful beach in Newcastle. Good place for quality time. Amazing view and well maintained surroundings

Really beautiful beach with soft, fine sand. The waves were quite strong the day I visited, and the sun was bright. Much less crowded than the beaches in Sydney, even though I came during a school holiday. Be sure to check it out when you're in Newcastle!

Very popular beach with lifeguard patrol. There is a large rock pool and a large swimming pool next to it so there are options for everyone.

Newcastle's beaches are a treasure trove of exciting experiences. Let's dive into the details of Newcastle Beach and Nobbys Beach. Newcastle Beach -Location*: Right in the heart of Newcastle, this beach is perfect for those who want to be close to the action - *Amenities*: You'll find cafes, beach kiosks, and hotels nearby, making it an ideal spot to spend the day - *Events*: Newcastle Beach hosts several water events, including The Australian Boardriders Battle National Final - *Upgrades*: Recent upgrades include a promenade and skate park, as well as renovated ocean baths # Nobbys Beach - *Location*: Situated in Newcastle East, Nobbys Beach is easily accessible by Light Rail or car - *Vibes*: This beach is popular with families, surfers, and even local dolphins - *Amenities*: Enjoy barbecue facilities, a kiosk, picnic areas, and public toilets - *Attractions*: Take a scenic walk along the breakwall, visit the historic Nobbys Lighthouse, and explore the nearby Soldiers Baths for snorkeling and macro marine life spotting - *Safety*: The southern end of the beach is generally safer for swimming, marked by flags Both beaches offer unique experiences, from surfing and swimming to relaxation and scenic walks. Whether you're looking for action-packed adventures or serene moments, Newcastle's beaches have got you covered. Photo/ Video Courtesy : Amit Bhandari | AmitPhotography - Freelancer

Has wonderful exhibitions in a lovely building..I always enjoy visiting when I am in Melbourne!

Great place for art. They change exhibits time to time. When I went there,there was a great collection of magic Mike's art. Tip: Never go on school holidays. It's filled with children. If you have kids plz go they got lot of activities for kids during school holidays. 😊

Building is cool, people are nice. Sadly, all they have at the moment is the predictable and boring genufluction to aboriginal art, which is dull. Oh well, it should get better when the whole building is open for business.

Such an amazing gallery with some stunning art. The gallery is in the process of enlarging the gallery. The gift shop had some fabulous items to buy. Thanks Kaz for the tour

As all I know is full reveal coming February 2026.

Some interesting photos at the We Can Be Heroes exhibition and well spaced out for social distancing. Ground floor was not opened except for a small gift shop area. Free entry.

Beautiful space, airconditioned, sparkling clean...but not good use of the space. I think more art can be displayed in the existing space. Just a shame to waste the space

The walking trail from **Merewether Beach** to **King Edward Park Lookout** is about 6 km return. I enjoyed a wonderful 1.5-hour walk on a delightful afternoon. The weather was perfect, the beach was absolutely stunning, and the sunset created a magical atmosphere. Along the way, I saw many people walking, exercising, and enjoying their time, which made the whole experience even more lively and enjoyable.

The Newcastle Memorial Walk presents a stunning 450-meter coastal pathway, providing exceptional vistas of Newcastle's coastline and cityscape. It features captivating scenic views of the ocean and offers picturesque sunset views, making it a popular destination for travel enthusiasts and nature lovers. This location is approximately ~190 kilometers from Sydney / Parramatta 🤩🌊🌅

Beautiful coastal walk with stunning ocean views and a touching tribute to ANZACs. Easy to access, peaceful, and perfect for a morning stroll or sunset visit. A must-do in Newcastle!

Beautiful, brisk wintery walk. Quite windy—consider yourself warned! Don’t wear your favorite hat unless you’re sure it’s going to stay put. A lovely walk with even lovelier views!

Nice short walk that gives you a great views of the ocean and city. You also get to know more about the history of ANZAC during WW1. I recommend going here to view the sunset.

Great coastal walk along some of Newcastle's best beaches like Bar Beach, Merewether Beach. You can walk all the way to Newcastle and spot a hang glider or 2.

Wonderful coastline walk with well documented military history along the way. Plenty of parking at either end. Dogs not permitted but they are permitted along the existing footpath which follows the walk on the street. Lots of stairs and hill down to Bar beach. Would recommend.

World class Surfing location and home of the three times world champion Mark Richards. Merewether has become synonymous with Newcastle because of this beach and the champions that it has produced over the years. Family friendly and patrolled in summer, and big pumping surf for experienced surfers only in winter. Always respect the locals. Best with Southwest wind and 2m+ swells

One of the best beaches in Newcastle! Clean, beautiful, and perfect for swimming or just relaxing by the water. Great surf, amazing views, and a nice coastal walk nearby. Perfect spot to spend the day!

A fantastic spot for kids to play and swim, with plenty of parking to make your visit stress-free! Totally worth the drive, and definitely a place to return to. Highly recommended for a fun and relaxing day out! 🇦🇺🙏🏖️

Great beach for everyone! The seawater baths are a real treat. Facilities very good. The beach is great and for the two days we were here there were several surfable beach breaks from the flags to north end. The Merewether surf club serves up a treat with fantastic views or snacks and drinks under. And across the road is the Ocean hotel also with sensational views good pub food and drinks. The fish and chips is big enough for2! Highly recommend. 😎

Gorgeous beach! Spectatucular whale watching. Caught a video of three humpbacks breaching and tail slapping.

Nice long sandy beach. Picturesque from up the hill to one side. Lifesavers on guard. Plenty of parking. Not busy at all on a sunny Tuesday afternoon.

Unreal This place should not be advertised as it’s too nice I’ll add photos just to show its beauty The whales were a bonus Stay at Mercure then it’s just an 8 min drive to beach Awesome

We managed to fill 2 full days exploring the rock pools and enjoying the pools. Bring your own food and drinks and shade. Plan toileting, with children as its well away from the ocean pool into the actual baths and that's if their open. They wernt on our first day but we're on the second day. It's undergoing reno's to the actual baths. Parking can be an issue if you're not there early so pack light or bring a trolly. We had a fantastic time mainly in the ocean Pool and rocketing. Recommend it as a must do.

The ocean bath has a clean pool and a spacious rockpool next to it. There is a large changing room with showers and toilets. Parking right in front of the bath is limited, but you'll be able to park free of charge in the surroundings. Keep an eye on small children when walking around the edge of the pool when the waves are strong. They then crash into the pool.

The most idealistic spot to start your day if you’re ever in Newcastle. Perfect for an early morning swim while watching the sunrise, or simply to take in the beauty of a calm morning. The Kiosk coffee cart is usually open from 6am during the warmer months, from November through April. The coffee is always amazing 🙏

These ocean baths are a big reason I fell in love with Newcastle. The big pools are amazing. An even bigger kiddies pool to the south of them. The changerooms are crumbling a bit. But a great view & inspiring place to pump out your swim laps.

This place offers great views, places to sit/relax, showers/toilets. Pool amazing.. light rail takes you from the city to the beach or a great walking paths.

Enough pool for all ages, so beautiful and took movie level photos easily

Amazing renovated ocean baths. Change rooms need a renovation. Free to use. Hot showers too.

Loved walking on the beach! Very clean, and they have beach volleyball set up, which is cool. ♡ such pretty views and loved seeing the ships 🚢 pass by.

Located almost next to the Newcastle beach (approximately 2 km), this is also a beautiful beach to enjoy. We visited this place during our road trip from QLD to Melbourne. The weather was pleasant and the beach wasn't busy during that time.

Nobbys Beach is one of my favorite places in Newcastle. The walkway is beautiful on both sides, with stunning ocean views, and at the end, you can often spot two or more sea lions, making it a perfect place to capture special moments.

Nobbys Beach is the perfect spot to start the day. Watching the sunrise here is absolutely breathtaking — the colours over the water are stunning and worth the early wake-up. It’s also great for people-watching, with a mix of surfers, joggers, and families soaking up the morning vibe. Walking the break wall is a highlight too; it’s the ideal way to get your steps in while enjoying the fresh sea breeze and panoramic views. Whether you’re after a peaceful moment, some light exercise, or just a scenic spot to take it all in, Nobbys Beach never disappoints.

Nice beach, but sometimes the wind and waves are too much

Worth the walk to the end of the break wall. Rock art and interesting plaques along the way. We were lucky enough to be accompanied by a large pod of dolphins heading out to sea amongst the coal tankers.

One of my favorite beaches in the Newcastle area, you'll find everything here. I can exercise, do yoga, and there's a great spot for walking dogs. It's perfect for spending weekends, especially if you have little kids.

The most famous place for tourists is local attractions! Such wonderful neutral views, lively beach life and culture mix, makes this place more than a Spot. Side walks, dogs park and children park always remembering a good gathering. Enjoyed it!

Nobbys Lighthouse in Newcastle is a historic coastal landmark that offers stunning views of the ocean and harbour. Located on Nobbys Head, the lighthouse has been guiding ships since the 1800s and remains an iconic part of the city’s coastline. The walk to the lighthouse along the breakwall is peaceful and scenic, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset. It’s an easy and relaxing stroll, with waves crashing on either side and seabirds flying overhead. On weekends and public holidays, visitors can walk up to the lighthouse itself, where you’ll find a small gallery and friendly volunteers ready to share its history. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet escape, photography, or simply soaking in the sea breeze and views.

The weather was perfect, and the beach had such a peaceful and relaxing vibe. The stunning views and the beautiful sunset made the experience unforgettable. Walking along the coastal paths was truly enjoyable and refreshing. The walking trail near the lighthouse was especially charming and gave the whole place a magical touch.

Lovely sunny day for a walk up to the lighthouse. Lots of people out walking their dogs having a great time. Great place to view the river and coastline and watch the ships coming & going.

Great place to walk or cycling around Newcastle. Beautiful views of jetty, lighthouse, beach fronts & foreshore. Walk or cycle past the lighthouse toward the long jetty. Go up the hill to visit the lighthouse. Walk or cycle to the left or right side of the ocean for miles of incredible sceneries. Plenty of share walking & cycling paths.

Nobbys Lighthouse offers stunning views over Newcastle’s coastline and harbor. Located above Nobbys Beach, it’s ideal for scenic walks, photography. Rich in history and surrounded by natural beauty, it’s a peaceful escape perfect for families, couples, or solo visitors seeking a relaxing coastal experience.

Locate right next to the nobby's beach. The lighthouse offers an amazing view of the coastal life of Newcastle. It has an arts and exhibition centre, which is opened only on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 to 4 PM, there is a sitting bench that shows you where the flash of light goes out from the lighthouse. These 2 buildings, one shows where it used to flush in the old days and once or more automated system. Sorting the current modern technologies

One of Newcastle’s best picnic areas and park. Beautiful flat picnic area with luscious grass for the kids to play on. Old fashioned rotunda if you want some shade as well of plenty of tables and seats around the edges under the trees. Right next door are the beautiful gardens and some of the best views to the harbor.

The top lookout is absolutely beautiful. Impressed with the free gas BBQ SYSTEM surrounded by gorgeous high trees with plenty of shade and the BBQ area is next to public toilets which was a plus. Great for families and their dogs. First time visiting and loved it.

A beautiful park with lots of space for everyone to enjoy the perfect spring weather we had today!

A very nice park with breathtaking views. There is plenty of parking as well. It's pretty close to the bogey hope as well so you park here and then walk down to the hidden gem. There is a lookout spot here as well which offers a great view of the horizon as well as the Newcastle beach towards the left. A spot on place for a nice walk and a swim as well if you wanna go down the bogey hole.

This is a little piece of paradise right in the heart of Newcastle. The Rotunda behind me is quite often the news for marriages, and the park in general is beautifully kept by the council. In the old days they used to have the Mattara Hill climb, a car race from South Newcastle all the way through the park. These days it’s reserved for walking only, but you can drive and park your car on the road that twists through the park. Sometimes concerts are held here or outdoor cinema. It’s a great place for a picnic or just to hang out.

Lovely park for picnics and its connected to newcastle beach.

Pop Celebrations & Events loves setting up picnics and wedding ceremonies here! The park is always so lush, green and clean. The perfect spot to say I do or pop the question!

Beautiful park, great trails. Highly recommend using the Trailforks app if you're not familiar with the park. We took lunch and explored the park, from rainforest-like vegetation to coastal scrub. Beautiful views & heaps of wildlife.

Glenrock State Conservation Area is a true escape from the city without having to travel far. I can't recommend this place enough for anyone who loves the outdoors. The variety of activities is fantastic—whether you're into hiking, mountain biking, or just a relaxing day at the beach, Glenrock has it all. The walking trails are beautiful and well-maintained, taking you through lush rainforest and past waterfalls with breathtaking views of the coastline. The Yuelarbah Walking Track is a personal favorite; it's a peaceful journey that feels miles away from everything. The mountain biking trails are also top-notch, with options for all skill levels. It's amazing to have such a pristine natural environment so close to town. The beaches are stunning, and it's a great spot to explore, picnic, and simply enjoy the scenery. Glenrock is a must-visit for anyone in the Newcastle area looking for a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.

Great trail that offers options for all abilities. Well worth continuing all the way to the water where there is a soft grassy area and cool water to refresh after the walk. To truly enjoy the trail I'd allow between 90mins and 2hrs

Glenrock offers many trails and tracks from the novice through to the advanced walker/runner/hiker. I love that it offers stunning views, shade to retreat from the sun and a variety of wildlife including an echidna as I approached the beach! Any person should come out for a stroll. Busy times are weekends as there are many groups rock climbing and running and the sorts. I would suggest afternoon time but leave yourself plenty of time to get home and to not be out in the dark!

.Beautiful nature, trees are tall and birds are constantly chirpying. It startdled to rain when I was there which wasn't the best situation but what come after...was beautiful. A rainbow just above the water in between the trees and towards the horizon. Loved it even with the rain. It was a fun ad different experience

Do not pass up this park! Some of the better maintained tracks I have ever walked. Gorgeous scenery, stunning wildlife, with an amazing tranquil setting. Not too difficult, not too long, family friendly. MUST VISIT!

Very well maintained hiking trails throughout which leads to a beach. Unfortunately the beach is not very well maintained though but it is very secluded as there isn't really any direct access to get to it unless you go through the hiking trail. Parking is free which is fantastic.

A beautiful historical and prominent religious landmark serving the local Newcastle community. The Cathedral overlooks the city and the Pacific ocean in the eastern suburbs called the Hill. It has a Gothic Revival design with a tall sphire.

A beautiful cathedral in the high area of Newcastle. Had extreme damage from Earthquake and the restoration is excellent. The gardens have limited appeal though and appear to be in restoration phase. Is a hard walk up to though, so people with mobility difficulties may require

A gorgeous Cathedral located in the heart of Newcastle, definitely worth the visit if you are around to experience some of the history behind not only Newcastle, but Australia.

I love this place, its peace in the heart of the city. Im not religious but I don't feel like a stranger here. Come to be closer to the lord, or just to get away from it all for a moment of peace.

It is located right at the top of one of Newcastle's hills.  Such a beautiful building with fantastic views of the city. It was build on the grounds of the 1816 public school where 17 convict children were taught. The church is amazing inside and you can purchased a ticket to climb to the tower. It is the only church I have visited with has personalised knee cushions made by a local group of ladies. Outside there is an area dedicated to Newcastle War widows and  the cathedral park is the burial ground of Newcastle convict settlement beginning in 1804. Each step leading you to the top of the hill is dedicated to a dead person belonging to this old settlement.

The Church staff was extremely friendly and accommodating, very helpful. Gardens outside were pretty and everything was really clean and neat. Beautiful Cathedral, would definitely visit again, but as a tourist, to read up about the history etc.

Truly a amazing Cathedral. The architecture is awe inspiring, a special spiritual experience. Will definitely re-visit when I next visit Newcastle.

Stopped to eat dinner here with some family, and let the kids have a little play in the ocean baths. It was lots of fun for the kids and they even found a starfish.

Pretty good place if you like to swim in an open ocean baths. A bit crowded when I was there but really big ocean bath which is good for a long swimming. Don't forget to try out some food with a beer at the nearby restaurant with a great view of the ocean.

Very good place for a swim with a huge rock pool

Historic. A must visit. Significant part of Aussie history. Surf away. Parking is free 👌

Merewether Ocean Baths earns 5 stars for its fantastic facilities and stunning location. As one of the largest ocean baths in the Southern Hemisphere, it provides a unique and refreshing swimming experience with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking ocean views. The baths are well-maintained and offer ample space for both serious swimmers and families looking to relax. The nearby amenities, including changing rooms, showers, and a café, enhance the convenience and enjoyment of the visit. It's a must-visit spot for locals and tourists seeking a memorable seaside experience in Newcastle.

fantastic spot for a safe swim with a kids’ pool, toilets, and changing rooms. Parking can be tight. If you want to have a coffee, there are several coffee shops. Weekdays parking is too easy

One of a kind ocean bath in Australia! This is a family friendly and special place that we will continue to visit event though it's 2 hrs drive for us. Great for kids and adults. Bring your own food though as sometimes the cafe is not open. It was closed on the day we went. Parking is 4hrs free. Best to come early to grab a spot. Starts to get busy after 10am.

No cloak room and parking remains a challenge. Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to start time with minimal carry on. We took our stroller in and there was an area allotted for them near the theatre doors. Booster seats were readily available for the little ones. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase. Bathrooms are clean and accessible by all.

We recently saw the Australian Rock Collective at the Civic. It’s an icon of Newcastle history. It’s great to see it still in use and maintained for the future .

Stunning theatre, great staff, tidy clean amenities.. although the seats should be changed from flip up seats as small children get stuck and it becomes annoying to put the seat back down if you stand up.

Absolutely gorgeous theatre! It's so beautiful that I have taken photos with the intention of incorporating some of the designs into my home design. The event I've attended- junior theatre festival is a great for to the amazing theatre. Thank you to the Civic theatre star for helping make the event fantastic!

What a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious night at Civic Theatre. I recently attended the Civic Theatre for the production of Mary Poppins, and what a delightful evening it was! The classic Disney musical was brought to life with flair, energy, and impressive performances from the talented cast. I highly recommend this venue! The historic building is absolutely beautiful. The theatre itself is small and intimate, with incredibly comfortable seats and stunning architecture that's well worth admiring. Its convenient location, just a few minutes' walk from the light rail stop, makes it easily accessible with frequent services. The friendly and helpful staff add to the overall charm. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and can't wait to come back!

My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed the Madagascar musical, great location, easy access with happily take the family again

We went to see Cirque Africa here and the show was amazing, the seating can be a little strange near the stage if you're not tall. But it's a quaint and cosy setting with plenty to offer.

The kids had a tonne of fun. We did the junior courses. Each of the 4 junior courses have several obstacles and end in a zipline. Watching the kids' confidence increase with each course was amazing. Both kids want to come again soon.

Highly recommend for all ages. There is a variety of different courses depending on age, experience and fitness level. As 4 adults in their late 20's this was a fantastic day with lots of laughs and peer encouragement. The high zip lines are so much fun and the feeling of achievement when you finish a harder courses is worth the slight inkling of fear. There is a shop for food and water, the instructor staff are very helpful and friendly.

Treetops at Minmi is great. Our kids were old enough to go up to the 8+ and 10+ levels and they really enjoyed the new challenges. The staff are very helpful and patient with all ages of kids. Strong winds will close some of the bigger courses so check ahead. Would recommend booking ahead as it can get busy in holiday periods and weekends.

This is an incredibly fun place to spend a few hours! With three different levels, there's something for everyone. The first level is great for beginners, while the hardest course should only be attempted if you have a lot of energy and are up for a challenge. Trust me.. it lives up to its reputation and is really hard, but also incredibly rewarding if you enjoy fitness activities. Because this place is so popular, it's important to book ahead of time to secure your spot. But don't let that deter you – it's definitely worth it! Overall, this is an extremely enjoyable experience for anyone looking for a fun and challenging way to stay active.

Great courses, we went during the week and were one of two groups at the time. So we had no wait times. I felt so unfit though, but had a great time. The green and blue courses are a slight challenge with some great ziplines and views. Red is a nice challenge. Black although I didn't do I was told is a real challenge.

Great adventure for adults and kids above 8 years of age. This is huge and not easy task for any adults. Easy 2.5 hours for all adult climbing. However for kids under 3 to 7 they have limited option. The price for the kids is not justifiable hence the 4 star instead of 5.

Good morning. Wish I'd found these things before turning 50. Some trouble for us with the one of obstacles and the staff helped superbly. Very warm, bring the sunscreen.

Foreshore Footpath is a beautiful place to visit and take a walk along the banks of the Hunter River Newcastle. The area has undergone redevelopment and is most inviting. Pop into any of the many bars and restaurants. Highly recommended.

We were there for a Medieval Fair and it was great. Easy to move around, nice location - would do again

What a cool little spot! We dropped in the other day for a coffee and it was lovely. Great staff, very friendly and good recommendations for food. I had a fish burger which was just what I needed and a nice coffee. Love the local hotel across the road which consists of a few chairs under a tree:-). This is a really beautiful location, peaceful and very friendly people. The ladies in the shop told me about a sculptor down the road and I paid him a visit before we left. What a lovely little interlude.

Beautiful and peaceful park. I prayed the Eid Jamaat here at Foreshore Park, Newcastle — it was a great experience. The park is clean, well-maintained, and spacious, with plenty of open green areas for events and gatherings. A great spot for picnics, walks, or just relaxing by the water. Highly recommended!

a good place for relaxation, picnic, rollerblading or skateboarding, you can also visit the garden.

Nice open space with accessible pathways interesting gardens and beautiful views

Accessible, well designed and maintained, connected bike and walking pathways with great views of the harbour, ample green space, amenities and parking.

Beach is divided by the dog friendly beach and the dog free one closer to the shark tower. Both sides are lovely. The shark tower on the rocks is a must see.

Such a beautiful beach to take your furbabies. My 2 little guys had the best day and had no other dogs rush up to them.

What a beautiful beach! My dog loved it and it’s such a long beach that you don’t feel as though it’s busy even if there’s a few people there. There’s a car park there which is quite small but a lot of street parking around if needed. The walk to the beach is really nice and different pathways towards the beach. Would highly recommend if you’re going to take your dog there. Hardly any rubbish on the beach as well. Would recommend going in the evening to see the sunset.

One of my favourite beaches to go for walks. Much less foot traffic so is peaceful than the others. Has some great eateries near by. Always good to go for a snack after a nice evening walk.

Redhead Beach is an absolute standout and easily one of the best beaches in the Newcastle area. The long stretch of golden sand is perfect for a relaxing walk, and the iconic shark tower adds so much character. I love how it feels less crowded than some of the other nearby spots, giving it a more relaxed and peaceful vibe. ​The views are stunning, and it's a fantastic spot for a morning stroll or a long afternoon just soaking in the sun. If you're looking for a beautiful, clean, and spacious beach with a great atmosphere, you have to check out Redhead. Highly recommend!

Favourite 4WD beach, can get very busy but its not too crazy on a weekday! Don’t forget to buy a permit to drive on the beach. Fires are aloud but be careful and don’t start a bushfire! Also apparently there are a lot of sharks at this beach. Other than that its a really amazing beach to drive/ camp on!

Great beach for families and fur babies. If you have a dog we suggest you still park at the surf club and head “right”. The walk is shorter than the “official dog park car park”.

I had a fantastic dining experience at Earp Distilling Co., dining alone and enjoying every moment of it. The atmosphere of the venue is welcoming, elegant, and perfectly suited for a relaxing evening. For my meal, I started with the Lamb Skewers seasoned with garlic, chilli, and oregano served with fresh rocket. The lamb was cooked perfectly, juicy and tender with a delightful hint of spice from the chilli, complemented beautifully by the peppery rocket. Next, I enjoyed the Spatchcock with Vanilla Carrot Puree, Broccolini, and Master Stock—a house favourite and understandably so. The vanilla carrot puree was particularly outstanding—smooth, rich, and bursting with flavour. It paired excellently with the crispy-skinned, succulent spatchcock and fresh broccolini. Throughout the evening, the service was great, attentive, warm, and genuinely friendly. To accompany my dinner, I opted for sparkling mineral water, although the gin menu and cocktails looked amazing. Overall, Earp delivered a great experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone.

We had our engagement party in the function room at Earps and were very impressed with the events team managed by Kat. Kat and the team were incredibly helpful and laid-back, which made the day so much more enjoyable and stress free. The event space was perfect for the number of guests and the bar staff were efficient in servicing drinks and were friendly towards all our guests. No request was ever too much and the team was happy to accomodate our many questions and visits to the venue prior to the event. Thanks again team!

We had an amazing time at Earp Distillery during our visit to Newcastle! As visitors from out of town, we were after something a bit different – and this experience absolutely delivered. The gin-making session was a real highlight. Ness was fantastic – knowledgeable, passionate, and made the whole process fun, interactive, and genuinely memorable. Getting to take home our custom bottle (and the option to reorder our own unique recipe later) was such a great touch. The venue itself is beautiful – full of character, with stunning art and a warm, welcoming vibe that felt special without being too formal. It’s the kind of place you want to stay and enjoy. The entire team was incredibly friendly and made us feel right at home from the moment we arrived, which really added to the relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. The food was also lovely – so delicious, and a perfect complement to the overall experience. We’d highly recommend Earp Distillery to anyone visiting Newcastle – whether you’re into craft gin, great food, or just looking for something unique to do. We’ll definitely be back next time we’re in town!

My partner and I booked the Blend & Dine experience and wow, would highly recommend. Ness was our spirits guide and she was super lovely, funny and knowledgeable. She made the experience so much fun and taught us a lot at the same time. The food was delicious which added another layer of enjoyment. All of the staff were super nice too so this made our night feel very warm and welcoming!

We recently had our wedding at Earp and couldn't be more stoked with how it went. Cat is an absolutely asset in every way and we can't emphasize that enough. Communication was seamless, and we truly didn't have to think about a thing come the day. The food was delicious and gobbled up by everyone, drinks were an absolute standout as always and all the staff were brilliant- our guests commented through the night and the coming weeks at how wonderful the staff were. We couldn't be more grateful for our experience, thanks so much guys!

Took visiting Kiwi friends on a wet Saturday afternoon. Easy parking. We had our blending class followed by a great meal. Lively atmosphere. Our tutor was extremely knowledgeable and engaging. Highly recommend. Also very good value for the money.

My work team attended their spirit blending class recently and had an amazing time. Ness was our host and she was great, there were many options of flavouring that we could use to create our own flavoured vodka and Ness taught us how to properly taste these and mix them. She also provided some of the history of Earp and information on how they create their flavourings. Everyone really enjoyed the experience and we all had a cute little custom made vodka to take home. I would highly recommend their spirit blending classes.

Newcastle was a convict colony for repeat offenders and conditions here were harsher than in Sydney, with harder work and less food. This is the site of the lumber yards, alongside a few other industries, including a forge. Trees harvested in the Hunter would have passed through here on their way to ships at the part. A lovely site adjacent to the bike path and easy walk from the ferry or elsewhere in the city. They're isn't terribly much to look at in terms of remnants, but they've done the best they can with outlines of the site and fast signage. The lumber yard burned down in the 19th century, but the building is outlined in steel to give you an idea of it's structure. Worth a walk through if you're in the area, expect to spend less than 20min.

Netty. Was. Here. Walking through a park with historical information about the first convicts of Newcastle.

Not much to see here, just a quick stop if you are waiting in the area for a restaurant.

Good signage giving historic view and information of convict and industrial applications. Some signs hard to read in full sun, but worth the effort. Interesting history and very informative. A must for anyone interested in convict heritage and history of early Newcastle. A few areas to explore representing footings or location of key buildings and activities within the yard /space. Bring hat and sunglasses if summer day as no shade.

Nice little piece of history area but what deterred me from exploring this further was the local homeless people nearby which is a disappointment and I didn't feel safe with them nearby. I understand being homeless isn't good and it isn't their fault (probably) but what's caused me to give this 2 stars is the homeless issue here. Otherwise I'd give it 5 stars. See if you can fix the homeless people up or something and maybe I'll come back and bump my review up to 5 stars.

It is very nice place I ever see in my life

Very historic spot working labour yard used by convicts for over 30 years

It's a nice library. It has a quiet space area for the ones planning to read. Staff are quite helpful. Washrooms on the same floor right outside the library. ( Best if planning for long hour study ) Bus stops and cafes are few mins away . (10min walk away- For this I prefer digital library for the space and cafe )

Was a bit tricky to find this building as it is inside war memorial building (really not clear) and my reason for coming here was to print out some government paperwork ( what is it with needing print outs) but then on the computer we only had 15minutes which if any has used a government website you can not do anything in 15min. Now about the library not many books but a nice layout. Would I come here again?= I don't think so.

If you want to print something, NEVER come here. It took me over 1 hour to print a single document – something that usually takes 1-5 minutes in any other library I’ve used in Victoria or South Australia. You must create an account, enter personal info like your DOB and address, and even then, the system kept crashing. Multiple web and printing machines failed repeatedly. Staff were kind and helpful, but the setup is terribly inefficient. Totally frustrating experience.

Best library I`ve been to. Great help when needed and lovely atmosphere to sit and enjoy a book. Easy check out of books and friendly reminders when books are due back.

It has limited functionality for a cities main library. It is a little embarrassing.

The library was nice and quiet however not the most convenient for travellers like myself, only members can use the computers and wifi which is a little frustrating when I’m there to do work. The work space however was nice, and it was a very peaceful environment

A great city library for current popular books and magazines. I frequent the place for the latest issues. Very comfortable, with lounges and seats about. I have my own computer, I don't need to use a public one, so I cannot comment on that. All in all a nice place to drop in, and great for locals. Staff are friendly.

A lovely park in the heart of Newcastle. Civic Park is a peaceful spot, perfect for relaxing or spending time with family. Plenty of open space, trees, and a calm atmosphere — a nice place to sit and enjoy the day.

A large park with sunshine and shady spots. The fountain and gardens are nice and the memorial to the fallen is restored and respectful of the men and women who gave their lives. There is some parking around the parameter of the park but it’s very limited and depending on the day and time you will be required to pay.

Pretty hard to find parking. No toilet. The Library isn't called by its name. Pretty buildings in the area

Beautiful place with A play grace….: Happy people happy faces… One of the Gorgeous place after Bar beach… “Newcastle will be the future “ You will find everything right in this area …. Very very pleasant environment (that’s changed with your mood even with your Food… I suggest you to visit there. Love you Australia❤️ And Love 💕 from Pakistan 🇵🇰

The green heart of Newcastle’s CBD, Civic Park offers lush green trees and mowed grass and fresh oxygenated air perfect for escaping the air conditioning office. Very popular park for relaxing and holding civic rallies and protests. Additionally civic park has frequent market gardens, staged travelling shows / graduation and memorial events. The park commemorates Anglo-Centric culture via War Monuments and the Captain Cook Fountain plus a well kept flower garden. Surrounded by Newcastle Art Gallery, University Conservatorium of Music and Town Hall, public library, Civic Theatre and 5 Star Accommodation. Civic Park is one of Newcastle’s most valued public space, is accessible by light rail & bus, bike walking

clean with bird sound all around and have clean public bathrooms

Great little park area. Beautiful fountain, also is great for pick nicks and small gatherings. The only problem is it open to busy traffic.

I stopped by here yesterday whilst driving 🚗 around . The garden was pretty full with all types of ornaments and paths going to different areas. Great place for the little girls who love ❤️ fairies 🧚‍♀️ 🧚‍♂️.

Whimsical open fairy garden for the kids to play. There is also a fairy postbox, where if you send the fairies a letter (with an addressed envelope and stamp) the fairies might write back to you. My daughter was so excited to receive a letter from the Fairy Queen in the letterbox a week or so later.

Enjoyed a picnic and play here. A beautiful story. One man transforming an overgrown public area in to a fun, quirky community space. From pet cementry, to fairy wonderland. Worth a visit, 3 year old loved it.

Twenty long minutes it took. All that time trying to find the ticket booth. I was keen to pay my admission. And then, it struck me: in all that time looking for the ticket booth, I'd seen the whole garden. I recommend purchasing your ticket in advance. Five stars for the marvellous water view.

What a magical little find! So many awesome little statues and surprises to uncover and explore. Had a great time looking around with the kids and having a little fairy tea party. I loved the seven dwarves and the kissing frogs the best. Wish I had known I could do some fairy mail and I would've come prepared.

Wonderful little fairy garden bursting with fairies and interesting items everywhere. Obviously made and tendered, with love. A great kid activity. Don't forget to take a ribbon for the Wishing Tree .

This is the most cutest and carefully thought of garden for everyone to enjoy. Love all the statues and dedicated pet headstones. Beautiful little area for a picnic with the kids and for a little magical photoshoot

Located at 49 Medowie Road, Williamtown, New South Wales, Australia 🇦🇺. This is a great place to come to. The display of the fighter jets is quite vast and the history of Australian fighter jets is amazing. You also get to see the ammunition, the weapons, the engines and so much more. Very well set out and easy to follow. If you are lucky enough, while enjoying a wonderful drink or meal at the attached “My Three Beans” Cafe, you might get to see some jets taking off or landing. The noise is so loud but well worth seeing. It’s amazing to experience. Admission to the museum is $20 adults, $11 children (under 5 years free) and senior/pensioner $16. I thought this very reasonable considering everything you get to see. There are toilets available, including disabled) around the back of the building. There’s plenty of parking 🅿️ and it’s free 🆓. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend visiting here. Thumbs up!!! 👍👍👍

Very informative displays and I even got to chat to a former F111 pilot!! … The best part is the second storey platform at the rear where you can see - up close - F35 fighter taking off and land. What a thrill … the little coffee shop next door is very reasonable priced and had a great variety on the menu

The staff at William Fighter World were incredibly friendly and helpful. The aircraft displays were impressive, especially the F-18 fighter jet. There’s also another exhibition hall accessible from the back door, with even more to explore. Definitely worth a visit.”

On Tuesday at around 12:55 pm, I bought tickets online a week in advance. Walk-ins were also fine. If I had to be honest, we thought the museum was small, but it was actually quite large! There were massive jets, and we even got to sit in one! The staff was lovely and very informative. We weren’t busy until about 1:30 pm. We really loved seeing the showcased jets. Then, we saw massive jets taking off! We didn’t know of any jets as it was our first time thinking it was just a museum, but not realising it was outside Williamtown RAAF. There weren’t just one, but two jets, and then a heap of different planes going! This experience was amazing, and I honestly fell in love with jets. Seeing and hearing how loud they were was crazy! They had bathrooms and an outer deck to see the jets taking off. Honestly, it was an 11/10 experience. I would definitely go again!

Highly recommend a trip to Fighter World. We had some time between our arriving flight and hotel check in and it was worth the stop! Whole family (kids 13, 11, 9 and 8) thoroughly enjoyed, as did the adults. - Can not thank Steve enough for taking us around and giving us a real understanding of what we were viewing, even explaining things to the kids and answering any questions. - This can be a self guided experience with plenty of information provided on signs, however I strongly encourage you to talk to the gentlemen on the floor. They have first hand experience and are so full of knowledge and passion. - We managed to time it well enough to see some jets taking off and landing which was a great (noisy) experience! - We stopped for lunch at the Cafe which has heaps of variety, was all reasonably priced and was tasty. Overall a great way to spend a few hours especially on a rainy day, we did not prebook and there was no wait.

Lovely staff, cafe food/coffee was fantastic. All day breakfast on weekends, even got to watch a military working dog having a bit of exercise! The history inside the museum is so interesting, all in all lovely morning out

A great museum telling the history of the RAAF with lots of planes and aviation memorabilia There are many pictures from the past and quite a few other interesting things

Beautiful gardens and bush walks close to Newcastle and Maitland. Friendly volunteers, heaps of great places to sit and picnic or explore. Full of birds and wallabies. They also have a great selection of plants grown from in the gardens to purchase. There’s great play equipment for kids and bbq stations.

Always a great outing. The ladies that volunteer are friendly and accommodating. Nice walk around the gardens and their scones are divine (made by one of the volunteers). Also recommend lunch. They have vegetarian options as well and incredibly good prices

Wonderful staff coffee and food was great. The walks were beautiful, it felt great to disconnect for a while and just enjoy. I need to come back when the orchids are in bloom. If you want to participate in the guided walks best to plan ahead and purchase tickets early. It’s amazing how it’s all ran by volunteers. I could have easily spent longer here.

Fabulous spot - well worth a visit. There's a gift shop with limited food items, so maybe take your own snacks/water

Beautiful garden nestled in the Newcastle region. Ran by lovely volunteers who are really helpful and welcoming. There's a lot to explore here and we found the aboriginal gardens to be really informative. Looking forward to returning.

I really enjoyed my trip to these botanical gardens. It was larger than I expected and well kept. The succulent garden in particular was my favourite, and there is lots of walking trails to explore too. I also stumbled upon the sculptures and this was really cool! I spent longer than I expected to in here. I went on a Saturday afternoon and it was so quiet! I only saw 2 other people on my walk, very peaceful and benches to sit everywhere. Staff were lovely. Worth the 5 bucks!

We visited the gardens on our way back to Sydney. As a place that I always pass but never enter I can now say I regret that. This is a great place to brake up the trip in those long drives. As it was just short stay for us I can't wait to go back to look at the entire gardens. There is so much to look at as well as fun play ativities for the kids.

The beach was clean and had fewer people, which made it very nice for a relaxing day. However, there were some red flags to consider, like the lack of a lifeguard and the massive waves. While the waves were exciting, it’s important to be cautious if you're planning to swim.

This beach is pretty perfect for some water activities. Surfing recommended, but swimming is also possible. The people are always in a good mood. Nice lookouts. Great view. A must do. I miss a shower to clean up the surf stuff.

Beautiful beach very calm atmosphere

Such an gem of a beach with plenty if hiking area and waves for surfing, however parking is limited and no toilets.

Such a beautiful and peaceful place. Visited on Easter day, only a handful was there. The drive to the beach is beautiful as well.

Wonderful beach for swim and surf 🏄‍♀️ Parking lot are limited and no life guards

This is such a beautiful beach. Golden sand, stretching as far as the eye can see, fringed by green bush, popular with walkers.

Would have been better if it was closer to home. Why do they always locate beaches right out at the coast.

Plenty of parking, public toilets, barbecues and water refill stations. There is a nice walk along the coast line. Family friendly, since there is a playground for kids. I was lucky to spot a rainbow!

Beautiful beach with bbq, seating area, kids playground, cafe and etc.

This beach is world class and a wonderful spot for a picnic. The beach is golden and pristine.

Dog friendly park with BBQ facilities and plenty of shaded seating. It’s a great park next to the beach. Only down side is the lack of parking on those busier days.

One of the true highlights of the Newcastle area. It is an amazing place to bring the family for a geat day out. I grew up here...even on the worst weather days it is still a wonderful place for me to just sit and ponder. It could use a dedicated early start cafe....the crowds would just roll in. Come on down....bring a good book.

Lovely place to enjoy the weekend with family. Just make sure the weather is good when you plan.

What a well preserved piece of history. The opening hours of this museum fit well with a morning rail departure from Sydney and a gentle walk from the Newcastle Interchange. A well versed set of volunteers who each added to the story of bringing to life the Porter home. The QR code presented audio is well done.

Miss Porter's House is a charming step back in time! This well-preserved heritage home offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century life. The guided tours are informative, and the collection of original furnishings and personal items is impressive. A delightful visit for history enthusiasts!

Staff wonderful, lots of information, house a time warb, very interesting.

Beautifully maintained old home. Gave me a real feeling of what it would have been like living 60 to 100 years ago in Newcastle. Volunteer staff were amazing, very friendly and with a wealth of knowledge.

What a fabulous experience this was visiting Miss Porter's House. Hidden in King Street, this little gem is a true time capsule, offering up the most interesting and delightful insights into the life of a family in Newcastle spanning over a century. My mother and aunt, both elderly, were transported back to a very familiar time, and spent informative time with the volunteers here whom I can't praise highly enough. They were full of knowledge and their fondness for the house and its fascinating contents was obvious. Thank you to everyone at Miss Porter's House who made our visit possible for us....we loved it and can thoroughly recommend it as a great educational experience and a glimpse into our local history.

My partner and I visited Miss Porter's house today and we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. The volunteers were so lovely & knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the house. We will definitely be returning

Friendly experts and wonderful displays.Totally enjoyed it.

A little bit of history on the Great Northern Walk. Work a peek if you're happening by, I wouldn't go too far out of my way. Nice view from the top. The site of Newcastle's first windmill, the site now has medley of plaques about infrastructure. The water board has taken a keen interest, with a map pointing to various water landmarks. Nice little hike up a hill, probably a 5-10 minute visit for most people.

The Obelisk is a historical monument with stunning views. Here's a genuine review based on existing feedback: *Rating:* 4.2/5 stars *Highlights:* - *Breathtaking Views:* The Obelisk offers panoramic views of the city and ocean, making it a great spot for photography and taking in the scenery. - *Historical Significance:* This monument is a significant part of the city's history, being the site of the first water reservoir. - *Scenic Walks:* The walk up to The Obelisk is scenic, although it can be a bit of a stiff climb from the CBD. *Improvements Needed:* - *Signage:* Some visitors have noted that signage could be improved to provide more context and information about the monument. - *Seating and Shade:* There is limited seating and shade, which can make it uncomfortable for visitors who want to linger. *Overall Experience:* The Obelisk is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or scenic views. While there are some areas for improvement, the views and historical significance make it a worthwhile visit. *Tips:* - *Plan Your Visit:* Be prepared for a bit of a climb, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day. - *Take Your Camera:* The views are stunning, so don't forget your camera. - *Learn About the History:* Take some time to learn about the history and significance of The Obelisk to enhance your visit ¹.

I travelled 5 hours and 45 minutes by train and car from ARMIDALE to see THE NEWCASTLE OBELISK, and unlike some of the other reviews suggest, GOING OUT OF YOUR WAY IS TOTALLY WORTH IT. 6 stars out of 5 if I could!!!1!1!!1!

A very unassuming place, not too much to see here apart from the plaques of what the obelisk represents which is a former windmill which provided water to the area. However, the 360 degree views of the water and Newcastle is amazing! There are tables around on the grassed area for a casual picnic. One can walk to the beach as well.

A short walk from the road. Beautiful monument in perfect white color. Location gives awesome views of the sea.

The Obelisk offers good views & is a beautiful spot to take in the wonderful panoramas. The parkland on which it stands, is also lovely. It's a nice quiet, scenic spot.

The place is ok! Just like any other Australian uphill area where you can see the bird's eye view of the city and coastline. The place is picturesque so you can get some good shots! Attached to the place is the memorial walk which is beautiful as well (of course not on a too hot day)!!!

If you're old enough, then you will know this place as "The Water-tower," because that's the only name this place had before the old metal water tower was ripped down. I absolutely loved climbing the water tower and standing on the vent in the middle of the top. It was the highest point around Newcastle. Now, there's Memorial Walk, too. Nice and safe, unlike the cliff top walk that included jumping across the gap between two rocks just to make it down, further risking your life doing it. Yeah, I definitely miss those days before everyone became too soft to actually live and have adventures.

Nice scenery. Amazing sunset, I can only imagine the sunrise.

Hang gliders takeoff from Strzelecki scenic lookout and fly along the coastal cliff. It’s exciting to watch, however the sheer drop is not for the faint hearted. There are limited parking spaces and disability parking. It’s the entry point for the memorial walk. The view is spectacular but hold on to your hat and child as the wind can be strong. Sir Paul Strzelecki’s work as a geologist explorer in 1840’s helped establish Newcastle as a coal producer.

Went there to do some whale watching, beautiful views of the ocean. Sign in front of the the walkway states No dogs allowed. Also has disabled car parking.

Beautiful views, some historical info on sides of the bridge, its a really nice walk. Best to start from the East as there's no going uphill this way.

We saw a whale breach the water and enjoyed an amazing walk. Well worth the stop. Beautiful place for a picnic and an ocean view. Take some binoculars!

One of the best point to see sunset with a gorgeous water view. Loved it!!! Must see location if you haven't.

The bypass ripped through the bush land there, but the park itself is in a mint location. Huge areas, plenty of tables, basketball court and what’s left of the bush on the park side of the bypass is still fantastic to explore. Great place to take the kids for the day.

Beautiful rose gardens and play areas for the kids. Great place to have a picnic with a number of picnic spots and areas to walk after your feast. Pity about the traffic noise but nice to have an oasis among the chaos is guess.

What an amazing park to come for a picnic, go for a bush walk and get photos with the amazing rose gardens. There are shelter tables and seats and toilets there.

Jesmond Park is a beautiful recreation area with walking and bike tracts. It is equipped with all modern facilities like free car park (limited), picnic area, BBQ area, lots of bench and public toilet. It has nicely shaped landscape gardening with different varieties of rose as well as many colourful seasonal flowers. It has lovely green playground area. Plenty of shades and children playground. Suitable for morning and evening walk. Wedding ceremony, family and birthday parties are common here.

A great public park to excercise, walk or cycle. The tall trees provide good shade. There is a small children play ground and cricket oval.

Beautifully well kept park! I love the many swings here at the playground and the roses in the garden. Frisbee bins, bike paths and lots of trees, it’s a tranquil park where you don’t even really notice that it’s right next to the main road.

Very nice but flooded all over the footpaths from the rain. Should have better drainage

Such a nice spot for big and little kids alike. So many different areas for them to explore and have fun. Definitely recommend.

Beautiful nature reserve with an excellent playground for ages 3 to 4 and up. Some of the larger equipment is more geared for older kids, and it’s not fenced in (and ponds are nearby). The nature is what makes it so lovely and all of the wildlife you can see, but could also be the reason it could be tricky for families with tiny kiddos. My only complaint is the cost of the carpark…not really sure why there is a fee at all, but it’s pretty high for the area (higher than at Blackbutt Reserve where you get to see a lot more animals).

Beautiful location BUT google will tell you that this is a quiet place to walk your dog but the signs clearly say NO DOGS (and you'll see pictures of people with their dogs in the open grass area). It is not legal to walk your dog in reserves that state No Dogs. If council were to catch you it's a huge fine. I wish Google would actually check these kinds of posts against the actual rules of the reserve. Drove all the way over here to find that sign. Definitely a waste of time and petrol. Can't dis the park reserve or park, just disappointed and want to help other dog owners realise that it not a place to take your dog for a walk.

Amazing natural reserve close to the heart of the CBD. Plenty of paid parking, childrens play ground, ponds/water features, open grass lands and shelters with BBQ's ect that are able to be booked for that special occasion. Thoughly enjoyed visiting here on a number of family picnics and just as a couple. We walked up the hill on the left to get away from the crowds and have always had a quite space to relax and soak in nature.

A big playground but not many activities for the kids. I mean, yeah there are some huge climbing tunnels, but they're inaccessible for kids under 7, and parents end up having to go collect their kids from in there. The playground is nice but ultimately boring, all th kids gravitating to a single place and getting injured as a result. Love the natural setting, the bbq areas, the wildlife, ... But the playground is a big miss.

Lots of tables and shelters, toilets and bubblers, plus a playground for all ages. Really amazing time and place.

Excellent nature reserve to take the whole family. The kids loved this huge play ground and the many experiences it provides. It's absolutely beautiful to be surrounded by trees and the sounds of the birds especially the occasional laughing kookaburra. The lake has ducks. You can take a bush walk through to the other side of Blackbutt reserve to see the animals along the board walk. There are plenty of green grass for your picnic blanket or to kick a ball or catch a frisbee. Picnic tables and a few bbq and public toilets. Just remember it's a paid parking area now so will cost about $12 for a few hours to park.