Visit Windsor
The leafy, historic town of Windsor is set beside the magnificent Hawkesbury River, at the base of the Blue Mountains. Just 60 kilometres northwest of Sydney, Windsor is within easy reach of the city, but retains the charm and character of a small country town.
Established around 1791, Windsor is the third oldest European settlement in Australia. The farming town became known as the 'bread basket', supplying much needed provisions to the starving colony of Sydney. Today, Windsor still features many vestiges of its colonial and agricultural past, from some of Australia's oldest surviving buildings to acres of farmland. Explore the area's history on a heritage walk, or brave the darkness on a lantern-lit ghost tour.
Windsor is dotted with lovely outdoor spots. Bushwalk or camp in Scheyville or Blue Mountains National Park, where you'll spot a vast array of native plants and wildlife. Play a round at Windsor Country Golf Course. Relax at one of the leafy parks by the river, which are perfect for strolling, fishing and picnicking. Or venture out onto the Hawkesbury itself for a spot of boating, kayaking, waterskiing and more. Each October you can take part in the Hawkesbury Canoe Classic, a fun charity race for serious and novice paddlers, held under a magical full moon.
There are plenty of excellent indoor attractions, too. The unique Hawkesbury Regional Museum showcases the region's rich Aboriginal heritage and colonial history, along with an exciting art gallery hosting traditional and contemporary artwork, children's workshops, film screenings and guided tours. See stunning butterfly specimens gathered from across the world at the Butterfly Museum Collection. Or gaze at the stars through a 19th century telescope at the historic Tebbutts Observatory, where astronomer John Tebbutt discovered two comets.
Leafy, pedestrian Windsor Mall is lined with assorted shops, galleries, restaurants and pubs. Browse for fashion, gifts, homewares, antiques, plants and seafood on Bridge and historic George Street. Or explore the many colourful markets for bargains like new and secondhand clothing, gourmet foods, flowers, antiques, arts and crafts, and much more.
Windsor boasts a wide range of eating and drinking venues. Take your pick from cheap and cheerful takeaways, ethnic eateries, historic pubs, outdoor bistros or fine restaurants. Sample fresh seafood at a riverside cafe, or enjoy a picnic and live music in historic Thompson Square. You can even dine on board a beautiful 1890s horse-drawn carriage as you tour the picturesque streets. For a real culinary adventure, follow the Hawkesbury Harvest Farm Gate Trail, discovering gourmet food producers, artists, craftspeople, restaurants and wineries as you tour the countryside.
