Fast facts
- Picturesque historic city, home to the University of New England
- Situated on the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales
- 569 km north of Sydney, population 25,000
Why go there
Set in a historic pastoral community, Armidale has a cosmopolitan feel amid old world grace along with an established modern university. A flourishing arts and cultural scene includes many fine museums and galleries.
Heritage buildings, grand cathedrals and tree-lined streets make Armidale a picturesque base for exploring the New England region.
Surrounded by the rugged beauty of several national parks, the city has extensive parks and gardens with spectacular deciduous trees.
History
First settled by Europeans in the 1830s, the town was named after the Scottish home of the Crown Commissioner of Lands.
Initially a centre for wool production, it prospered with the discovery of gold in 1852 and became a centre for tertiary education after World War II. It is still renowned for its fine wool and beef cattle.
Things to do
- Admire the autumnal colours on a heritage walk of the city.
- Discover Wollomombi Falls, Australia’s second highest vertical drop falls.
- Browse the many antique, gift and craft shops around Armidale.
- Go trout fishing in the many creeks and rivers, or take a guided trout-fishing tour.
- Sample some local wines at the cellar doors of the region's many vineyards.
Events
- Armidale Autumn Festival in March includes a parade, music and markets.
- New England Wool Expo in May celebrates the wool industry with shearing competitions, sheep dog trials, fashion, art and crafts.
- Armidale Women’s Comedy Festival in October features well known female comedians.
Don’t miss
- The New England Regional Art Museum, considered the best country gallery in Australia. It includes many works by Australian painters from the early days of European settlement.
- A visit to the Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place.
- Saumarez, one of the original grazing properties and homesteads now open to the public.
