Spring is in full swing across NSW, with colourful blooms, lively festivals and plenty of opportunities to get out and about. But with Sydney experiencing its fair share of wet weather lately, a weekend escape from the city might be just what you need. If you’re keen to swap the rain-soaked streets for fresh mountain air, charming country scenery and a little springtime cheer, there’s an event not too far from the city worth adding to your calendar. Tucked away in the picturesque Hartley Valley, just beyond the Blue Mountains, the quiet village of Little Hartley is hosting a spring celebration this weekend with beautiful gardens, local markets and plenty of seasonal charm. Here’s everything you need to know about the weekend spring event.
Hartley Valley Garden Festival and Plant Fair 2026 returns this weekend
The Hartley Valley Garden Festival and Plant Fair returns this weekend, giving visitors an excellent opportunity to explore four privately owned gardens, each with its own distinctive character. From colourful cottage gardens and sweeping flower beds to tranquil Japanese landscapes, there’s plenty to discover across the valley.
One of the major highlights is Gory’u Japanese Gardens, a five-acre retreat featuring ornamental bridges, traditional stone lanterns, Japanese maples, a serene lake and a striking red torii gate. Over at Hartvale Gardens, expect a riot of spring hues, with poppies, roses and other seasonal blooms, alongside an art studio and more. There’s more to explore at Highfields, a six-acre property known for its rare plants, beautifully designed borders and impressive mountain views. Meanwhile, Wild Meadows offers a tranquil setting, with flowering perennials, woodland gardens, an orchard and even beehives.
There’s a lot more to do beyond the gardens. Visitors can browse specialist plant stalls at Highfields, including rare and unusual varieties, while Hartvale will host artisan stalls featuring handmade creations and garden-inspired pieces. There will also be fresh flowers, garden sculptures and plenty of opportunities to pick up something for your own backyard. Food is part of the festivities too, with morning and afternoon teas, sausage sizzles and BBQ options available. Visitors are also welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy the surrounding countryside.
Key details
- What: Hartley Valley Garden Festival and Plant Fair 2026
- Where: Four private gardens across Little Hartley, NSW
- When: Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25, 2026
- Price: $15 per garden, with children under 16 admitted free
- Time: 10am–4pm both days
- Tickets: No bookings required. Pay at the entrance to each garden.
Getting there
Little Hartley is around a 2-hour drive from Sydney, although the current Great Western Highway closure at Victoria Pass means visitors should allow extra time and travel via Bells Line of Road or the designated detour. If you’re taking public transport, catch a train from Central Station to Lithgow, which takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. From there, it’s approximately a 15-minute taxi ride to Little Hartley. Weekend public transport to the gardens is limited, so driving is the most convenient option. Plan your travels on Transport for NSW.
