Raleigh

Raleigh is a quiet rural village in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, offering a peaceful escape into farming country and river scenery. With its historic timber buildings and location on the Bellinger River, it makes a pleasant stop for travellers exploring the hinterland between Coffs Harbour and Dorrigo.

Highlights & What to See

• Raleigh Bridge – a historic timber truss bridge spanning the Bellinger River, one of the oldest of its kind in NSW and a great photo opportunity.
• Bellinger River – enjoy a picnic by the riverbanks or launch a canoe for a peaceful paddle through lush farmland.
• Raleigh Cemetery – a small, atmospheric cemetery dating back to the 1800s, reflecting early settler history.
• Urunga Boardwalk – a short drive away, this award-winning boardwalk winds through mangroves and wetlands to the river mouth, perfect for birdwatching and sunset views.
• Dorrigo National Park – about 30 minutes inland, this World Heritage-listed park features spectacular waterfalls, rainforest walks, and the famous Dorrigo Skywalk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Raleigh itself is best visited as a brief stop of 30 minutes to an hour – enough to see the bridge and river. Most travellers use it as a lunch break or quick detour while driving the Waterfall Way. If you want to paddle the river or explore the surrounding area, allow half a day. Pair it with a trip to Uronga or Dorrigo for a full day outing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Urunga – 5 km south, with its famous boardwalk, estuarine beaches, and cafés.
• Dorrigo – 30 km west, gateway to Dorrigo National Park and the Waterfall Way.
• Coffs Harbour – 30 km north, for beaches, the Big Banana, and the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk.
• Bellingen – a charming artsy town on the Bellinger River, known for its markets and creative community.
• Nambucca Heads – 50 km south, with its iconic V-Wall painted rocks and ocean views.

Please check official sources for current details.