Tamworth, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Guide to New England
Ancient gorges, fragrant lavender farms, country music and autumn colour — New England is a region ripe for discovery.
Perched high on the Great Dividing Range, New England is cool-climate country at its cosiest. Here, the air is noticeably fresher, the seasons are colourfully distinct and the scenery swings between sweeping open tablelands and plunging gorges. Take the time to roam the vibrant university city of Armidale, the country music capital of Tamworth, the gem-fossicking country around Inverell, the waterfalls of the Waterfall Way and the farms producing everything from lavender to trout and stone fruit. New England is a destination that rewards slow travel and curiosity in equal measure.
The Anaiwan and Gamilaroi peoples have sustained, shaped and carried the history of the soils, rivers, forests and gorges here for thousands of years. Every place you encounter holds deep, ongoing significance for the Traditional Custodians of this Country.
Armidale, at the heart of New England, is located halfway between Sydney and Brisbane. It’s approximately a 5.5-hour drive from both.
- Armidale Airport (ARM), in the north of New England, has direct regional services from Brisbane and Sydney.
- Tamworth Airport (TMW), in the south of the region, offers regional flights from Brisbane and Sydney.
Car hire is available at both Armidale and Tamworth Airports.
The region is well connected by sealed roads and is the perfect setting for a road trip. Driving highlights include the Waterfall Way, which runs east from Armidale out to Coffs Harbour and passes through five national parks. The Thunderbolts Way winds through the Great Dividing Range.
The New England high country enjoys four distinct seasons. Come autumn, the quaint towns are awash with orange and gold, while spring sees wildflowers blanket the national parks. Summers are milder here than on the coast, with the occasional storms and flowing waterfalls, while winter is a magical time for cosy pub lunches and clear stargazing nights.
- High season: Autumn (March to May)
- Low Season: Winter (June to August)
- Arrival: The small regional airport of Armidale is single storey with accessible toilets, accessways and dedicated parking bays. For disembarking assistance, contact your airline prior to flying.
- Getting around: Hire car is the most flexible option for travellers with accessibility needs. Be sure to arrange a suitable vehicle with your hire company ahead of time.
- Accessible experience highlights: Explore the natural wonders of Dangars Gorge, Wollomombi Gorge and Ebor Falls along wheelchair-friendly tracks, and learn about the areas First Nations history with a visit to the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place.
