Forbes

Forbes, a classic country town on the banks of the Lachlan River in the Central West of New South Wales, is a place where gold-rush history meets authentic rural charm. With its well-preserved Victorian streetscapes, legendary pubs, and a backdrop of working farms and riverside reserves, Forbes offers a genuine slice of inland Australia. It’s a perfect stop on a self-drive itinerary through the region, combining heritage appeal with easy access to the great outdoors.

Highlights & What to See

• Lachlan River & Lake Forbes: A beautiful spot for a riverside stroll, picnic, or birdwatching. The lake is a haven for waterbirds and a popular spot for kayaking and fishing.
• Forbes Heritage Trail: Follow the self-guided walking trail to admire grand 19th-century buildings such as the Court House, Post Office, and the iconic Town Hall. The trail brings the town’s gold-boom past to life.
• Bushranger Ben Hall Sites: Forbes is synonymous with bushranger Ben Hall. Visit his grave in the Forbes Cemetery and the nearby Ben Hall’s Death Site at Goimbla, where the notorious outlaw was shot in 1865.
• Forbes & District Historical Museum: Housed in a former hospital, this museum offers a deep dive into local history, including Indigenous artefacts, gold-mining relics, and bushranger memorabilia.
• Wheoga – The Big Tractor: A quirky roadside attraction and a nod to the region’s agricultural heritage. It’s a fun photo stop, especially for families.

Suggested Time to Spend

Forbes can be comfortably explored in a day, but a two-night stay allows you to soak up the relaxed pace. Spend the first day on the Heritage Trail and museum, then dedicate the second to the river and a drive out to Ben Hall sites. If you’re passing through on a road trip, even a few hours is enough for a quick heritage walk and a counter lunch at one of the historic pubs.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Parkes (30 km north) – Home to the famous Parkes Radio Telescope (The Dish) and the Henry Parkes Centre. A must for space and history buffs.
• Grenfell (50 km west) – The birthplace of poet Henry Lawson, with a charming main street and the Henry Lawson Festival in June.
• Condobolin (80 km west) – A classic outback town on the Lachlan River, known for the Wiradjuri Visitor Centre and the annual Condobolin Show.
• Weddin Mountains National Park (45 km south-east) – Offers excellent bushwalking, birdwatching, and the chance to explore the former haunts of bushranger Ben Hall.
• Young (90 km south) – The cherry capital of Australia, with orchards open for picking in season and the charming Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Gardens.

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