Perched in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales is the decidedly old-fashioned town of Goulburn with heritage architecture dating back to the 1800s and charming walkable streets. Home to a quaint community, it offers local boutiques, galleries, museums, and cosy eateries waiting to be explored. Declared Australia’s first inland city by Queen Victoria in 1863, it is quietly gaining popularity as a weekend getaway for those looking to escape the city or other buzzy coastal destinations in the state. While most curious travellers visit it for the iconic Big Merino, one of Australia’s most well-known big things, there’s much more to discover in this historic town. Here’s everything you need to see, eat, and do in Goulburn.
What to see and do: The Big Merino, museums, and historic landmarks
Just as the harbour and its icons are symbolic of Sydney, the Big Merino remains at the forefront of Goulburn’s identity, serving as a tribute to the region’s rich wool industry. At 15.2 metres tall, the concrete statue of a merino ram is the biggest of its kind in the world and a must-see attraction in the area. Unlike other ‘Big Things‘ in Australia, visitors can climb the stairs inside and view Goulburn through the Merino’s eyes. The Big Merino also hosts a permanent exhibition showcasing Australia’s 200-year history of wool along with a gift shop.
Unfamiliar travellers will be surprised at everything else Goulburn has to offer. Explore the Rocky Hill War Memorial Tower & Museum and discover WWI exhibits while enjoying panoramic views of the city from the tower. Nearby, the Goulburn Historic Waterworks Museum, on the banks of the Wollondilly River offers a fascinating look into the town’s early history.
Part of Goulburn’s charm is in its buildings and architecture lovers will find plenty to admire here including the heritage-listed Goulburn Court House built in elegant Italianate style, the stunning St Saviour’s Cathedral, considered one of the finest white sandstone cathedrals in the Southern Hemisphere and the Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre, home to an impressive collection of locomotives and railway memorabilia. A self-guided heritage tour is the perfect way to discover more of Goulburn’s architectural gems.
Prefer something more low-key? Pack a picnic and head to Belmore Park. With beautiful monuments, gardens and a glass house conservatory, it’s a tranquil spot in the heart of town. If you want more outdoor adventures, take a short drive to the wild and rugged Bungonia National Park where you can enjoy a day of rock climbing, hiking, abseiling and exploring some of the deepest caves in Australia.
Where to eat: Local cafes, bakeries and restaurants
Goulburn is quietly emerging as an under-the-radar foodie spot with plenty of creative local cuisine on the menu. For a classic breakfast and housemade lunch paired with refreshing cocktails and winesThe Roses Cafe near Belmore Park. Other local favourites include Bryant’s Pies for excellent pies, pastries and roasted coffee, the famous Goulburn Donut Shop, Grit Cafe for fresh and healthy breakfast options and the Blue Plate Restaurant that dishes out a fantastic seasonal menu in a relaxed space with a stacked selection of wines. For a special occasion, try Paragon Cafe which offers outdoor seating and a lovely ambience. Find more cafes, restaurants and wineries in the area here.
Where to stay: Charming motels and farmstays
Want to stay a while and turn your weekend getaway into a longer holiday? There are plenty of accommodation options around town from farm stays to motels.
Step back in time at the Garroorigang Historic Home which is filled with original furnishings and vintage memorabilia from the 19th century. For a serene country escape, consider Towrang Farmstay which features a 19th-century farm cottage surrounded by lush gardens and a lake and friendly animals like sheep, horses and chickens.
Outdoor enthusiasts can set up camp at the Bungonia National Park which offers facilities like toilets, showers, a camp kitchen and a gas BBQ or make a beeline to Governors Hill Carapark for studio and ensuite cabins. Nature lovers will love the intimate cabins and campsites at Wombeyan Caves, just a stone’s throw from the spectacular limestone caves.
If you prefer your creature comforts, there are plenty of motels, short-term rentals and guesthouses to choose from. Read more about Goulburn and find additional accommodation options here.
The best time to visit Goulburn
Summer is generally considered the best time to visit Goulburn particularly the months of December to late February if you enjoy outdoor activities and exploration. Autumn is a particularly beautiful time to visit with vibrant shades of red and orange taking over the landscape. Winter can be pretty cold and it is known to occasionally snow in Goulburn if you watch to catch a glimpse of the white stuff.
Getting there
Goulburn is conveniently located just a two-hour drive from Sydney and only an hour from Canberra, far from the coast and nestled in the country. Alternatively, you can also catch a direct train from Central Station to Goulburn, and the journey would take just around three hours. Plan your travel on Transport for NSW.