Young

Young, the self-proclaimed 'Cherry Capital of Australia', is a vibrant country town in the Hilltops Region of southern New South Wales. Surrounded by rolling orchards and vineyards, it offers a delightful blend of agricultural heritage, seasonal fruit picking, and a warm community spirit. The town's main street retains a charming federation-era character, with cafes and boutiques housed in historic buildings. Young is particularly famous for the National Cherry Festival in December, but its year-round appeal lies in its relaxed pace, excellent local produce, and access to scenic countryside drives.

Highlights & What to See

• Cherry & Stone Fruit Orchards: Visit working orchards like Wombat Heights or Main Range Orchard for pick-your-own cherries, peaches, and nectarines (seasonal, Nov–Feb). Many have farm gates selling fresh fruit, jams, and juices.
• Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Gardens: A serene park and museum commemorating the Chinese miners who worked the goldfields, featuring a traditional Chinese garden, pavilions, and a dragon boat.
• Young Historical Museum: Housed in the former courthouse, this museum tells the story of the region's gold rush, agricultural boom, and the role of Chinese immigrants.
• Hilltops Wine Region: Young sits within the Hilltops wine region, known for its cool-climate shiraz and chardonnay. Cellar doors like Grove Estate and Moppity Vineyards offer tastings and vineyard views.
• National Cherry Festival: Held every December, this week-long festival features a parade, street stalls, live music, and the crowning of the Cherry King and Queen — a quintessential Aussie country event.

Suggested Time to Spend

Young is best enjoyed over a weekend (two days) to fully experience its orchards, wineries, and heritage. If you're on a road trip, an overnight stop allows time for a leisurely afternoon of wine tasting and a morning at the museum or gardens. During cherry season, allocate at least half a day for orchard visits. The town itself can be explored in a couple of hours, so combine it with nearby attractions for a fuller itinerary.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cootamundra: 50 km west, known for its heritage buildings, the Cootamundra Heritage Centre, and the birthplace of Sir Donald Bradman.
• Murrumbateman: 70 km east, a thriving cool-climate wine region with cellar doors and a popular farmers' market on the first Saturday of the month.
• Canberra: 120 km south, Australia's capital offers world-class museums, galleries, and dining — an easy day trip or overnight extension.
• Burrinjuck Dam: 80 km southeast, a scenic spot for fishing, boating, and bushwalking with views over the Murrumbidgee River.
• Harden-Murrumburrah: 40 km north, twin towns with a rich railway history, antique shops, and the historic Kinross Inn.

Please check official sources for current details.