Maitland

Highlights

Culture & heritage

Walk the pretty streets of Maitland to spot vibrant murals, see artists at work in their studios and pick up works from local creators. Maitland Regional Art Gallery hosts a superb range of touring exhibitions and shows thousands of artworks each year. For an immersive journey through the city’s street art, history, architecture and food, join Umbrella Event’s three-hour A Taste of Maitland walking tour.

Children enjoying a visit to the Maitland Regional Art Gallery, Maitland

Maitland Regional Art Gallery, Maitland - Credit: Maitland City Council

From colonial philanthropist Caroline Chisholm to famous boxer Les Darcy, be captivated by Maitland’s history on the East Maitland Heritage Walk. Among the fascinating heritage buildings, you’ll see Chisholm’s cottage and the Maitland Gaol, which opened in 1848 and closed 150 years later. Join a guided tour of the gaol or even stay a night in the gaol. The night behind bars includes a torchlight tour of the former prison.

For the history of fashion from the 1860s to present, visit the Australian Museum of Clothing and Textiles. Admire the striking 19th century Walka Water Works, a popular spot for picnics. A short drive away is a fashion icon and one of Australia’s iconic big things – the Big UGG Boots, at Mortels Sheepskin Factory and The Sheep’s Back Museum. There are factory tours where you’ll learn how the world-famous boots are made.

Couple enjoying a night tour at Maitland Gaol, Maitland

Maitland Gaol, Maitland - Credit: Maitland City Council

Eat & drink

It’s a good idea to arrive in Maitland with an empty stomach. The riverside Levee is a good place to start, with an enticing mix of boutiques, cafes, restaurants and small bars. Then indulge with the decadent cakes and pastries from the nearby Icky Sticky Patisserie. Make the short drive to Morpeth to visit Boydell’s, a cellar door and restaurant inside an 1820s slab hut.

Couple enjoying food and drink at Boydell's restaurant, Morpeth

Boydell's, Morpeth - Credit: Maitland City Council

The Rigby brings a touch of Melbourne’s small bar scene to Maitland, set inside a heritage building and serving sophisticated drinks. Head to The Cabin Collective if you’d like to get a tattoo along with your flat white. Meet the growers and pick up the freshest seasonal fruit, vegetables, honey, eggs, olive oil and more at Earth Markets. Held on the first and third Thursday of the month, it’s Australia’s first accredited Slow Food Market.

Family shopping at Slow Food Earth Market, Maitland

Earth Market, Maitland - Credit: Maitland City Council

Getting there & where to stay

Maitland is a two-hour drive north of Sydney or a 50-minute drive from Newcastle. Regular trains run from Sydney, via Newcastle, and the journey takes just over three hours. Or fly into Newcastle Airport and hire a car for the 45-minute drive. Accommodation options include motels, serviced apartments, pub rooms, cosy holiday cottages and farm stays.