Photo by Martin David on Unsplash
OceaniaAustralia/SydneyAustralia
Bathurst
Mount Panorama & Gold Rush Heritage
Local Time
06:33:50 PM
Friday, May 15, 2026
Australia/Sydney
Current Weather
About Bathurst
Bathurst is Australia's oldest inland settlement and home to Mount Panorama - the circuit that hosts the legendary Bathurst 1000 V8 Supercars race each October. The 6.2 km circuit is a public road open to regular traffic for most of the year, allowing anyone to drive the famous Conrod Straight and The Chase.
Founded in 1815, Bathurst was the site of Australia's first gold discovery in 1851. The city retains fine heritage architecture, including the magnificent Bathurst Court House, and the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum houses a remarkable collection including a T-Rex skeleton.
Best Time to Visit Bathurst
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The Bathurst 1000 in October is the biggest event - book accommodation a year ahead. Autumn and spring offer pleasant weather (15-22°C). Summer can be very hot. Winter is cold with frost.
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Next 14 Days
Photos of Bathurst
Top Highlights
Mount Panorama Circuit
Drive the legendary 6.2 km racing circuit - a public road when events aren't on.
AdventureBathurst 1000
Australia's greatest motor race each October - V8 Supercars battling on Mount Panorama.
CultureAustralian Fossil & Mineral Museum
Outstanding collection including a T-Rex skeleton and the Somerville mineral collection.
CultureGold Rush Heritage
Australia's first gold discovery site with heritage buildings and mining history tours.
CultureBathurst Court House
A magnificent colonial sandstone building considered one of Australia's finest.
LandmarkAbercrombie Caves
Located about an hour’s drive from Bathurst, these spectacular limestone caverns feature the largest natural arch in the southern hemisphere. Walking trails wind through the massive Archway, where the scale of the rock formations is genuinely humbling. It’s an essential excursion for those interested in subterranean geology and rugged Australian bush scenery.
NatureChifley Home and Education Centre
Step back in time at the perfectly preserved former residence of former Prime Minister Ben Chifley. The house remains almost exactly as it was when the Chifleys lived there in the 1940s, offering a poignant, intimate look at the life of one of Australia’s most down-to-earth political leaders. Guided tours are highly recommended to understand the history behind the modest furniture and personal artifacts.
CultureThe Hub on Keppel
Located in a beautifully restored heritage building, this cafe has become the go-to spot for locals looking for a refined brunch. Their menu emphasizes seasonal ingredients sourced from the Central Tablelands, featuring standout dishes like slow-cooked brisket or fresh local fig salads. The coffee is consistently excellent, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the downtown precinct.
FoodTravel Tips
- 1Bathurst is 3 hours from Sydney by car. Trains run from Sydney Central.
- 2You can drive Mount Panorama for free when there are no events - follow the speed limits!
- 3The Bathurst 1000 in October fills every room for 100 km. Book a year ahead.
- 4Visit the National Motor Racing Museum at the circuit for Australia's motorsport history.
- 5Combine with Orange (30 minutes away) for a food and wine experience.
- 6Visit the Abercrombie House, a stunning Scottish baronial mansion, on a Sunday for their high tea; booking ahead via their website is essential to secure a spot.
- 7If traveling from Sydney, consider taking the NSW TrainLink 'Blue Mountains Line' train to Lithgow and switching to a coach; it’s a scenic, stress-free alternative to the Great Western Highway.
- 8Pack layers even in summer, as the temperature in Bathurst drops significantly at night due to its elevation on the Central Tablelands.
