Fast facts
- Peaceful, elevated village on the New England Tablelands where snow is not unusual in winter
- 534 km north of Sydney, population 2,000
Why go there
Guyra is a pleasant town surrounded by a diverse blend of attractions, making it a good base for visitors. These attractions include farmstays, trout fishing, horse-riding, birdwatching and bushwalking in the area’s national parks.
History
Guyra’s name is said to originate from the language of the Anaiwan Aboriginal people, who inhabited the area before European settlement; however, the meaning is uncertain.
The railway arrived here in the 1880s and the village was officially proclaimed in 1885.
By the end of the 19th century dairy farming was a major economic activity, but these days other produce, such as potatoes, are now staple crops.
Things to do
- Go birdwatching at Mother of Ducks Lagoon, a valuable high-altitude wetlands reserve that attracts nature- and bird-lovers from all over the world.
- Try trout fishing in just about any of the creeks and waterways around town.
- Go bushwalking and enjoy the serenity of Guy Fawkes River National Park, Ebor Falls and Cathedral Rocks National Park.
Events
- The Lamb and Potato Festival, in January, attracts about 5,000 visitors to the machinery displays, live music, sheep shearing, vintage vehicles and food.
- The Guyra Rodeo, in November, for rough riding and country music.
Don’t miss
- Migratory birds at Little Llangothlin Nature Reserve.
- Guyra Antique Machinery Museum for farming machinery from a bygone era.
- Smiths Museum for antiques, bottles and a mineral collection.
- Guyra and District Historical Museum for local history.
- Getting close to nature and the land on a farmstay getaway.
