Ulmarra

Ulmarra is a tiny, utterly charming heritage village on the banks of the Clarence River, 30 km southwest of Grafton. With its beautifully preserved 19th-century timber buildings, a slow-paced riverfront and a palpable sense of history, it feels like stepping into a riverside time capsule. The main street – lined with jacarandas and old verandah-post pubs – is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the river offers peaceful paddling and fishing. It's an ideal detour for travellers exploring the Clarence Valley or the Pacific Highway route between Sydney and Brisbane.

Highlights & What to See

• Ulmarra Ferry – One of the last cable ferries in NSW, this free, 24-hour punt crosses the Clarence River just south of town. It’s a charming, working piece of river history and a fun little ride.
• Heritage Main Street – Wander past the Ulmarra Hotel (1870s), the old post office and the School of Arts hall. The street is lined with grand fig trees and jacarandas, and the buildings are beautifully maintained.
• Clarence River – The river is the town’s lifeblood. Launch a kayak or canoe (bring your own), try your hand at fishing for bass and bream, or simply sit on the riverbank and watch the water glide by.
• Ulmarra Village Walk – A self-guided heritage walk (maps available at the local store) takes you past 20-plus historic sites, including the 1872 courthouse, the old bank and the wharf remnants.
• Local Produce & Markets – The Ulmarra Community Market (first Saturday of the month) is a small but genuine affair with local honey, seasonal fruit, plants and crafts.

Suggested Time to Spend

Ulmarra is small – you can comfortably explore the heritage precinct and ride the ferry in under an hour. However, to absorb its peaceful riverside atmosphere, plan for a relaxed 1–2 hour stop (including a coffee at the general store or a drink at the pub). If you’re paddling or fishing, allow half a day. The village works well as a picnic break on a longer drive along the Pacific Highway.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Grafton – The Clarence Valley’s main town, famous for its jacaranda-lined streets and the annual Jacaranda Festival. It’s a 20-minute drive north.
• Yamba – A superb coastal town at the river mouth, with brilliant surf beaches, a lighthouse walk and excellent seafood. About 40 minutes east.
• Maclean – Known as “Scotland on the Clarence”, this pretty town has tartan street signs, a Scottish heritage museum and the scenic Lookout. 15 minutes north-east.
• Lawrence – Another tiny historic hamlet on the river, with a lovely old pub and a working ferry. 10 minutes south.
• Yuraygir National Park – A stunning coastal national park with walking trails, coastal lagoons and secluded beaches. Access via Brooms Head or Angourie, about 45 minutes east.

Please check official sources for current details.