New England Wine Region

Just a few hours' drive north of Sydney, the New England Wine Region is a high-altitude haven for cool-climate wine lovers. Spread across the rolling hills around Armidale and Glen Innes, this emerging wine country produces elegant reds and crisp whites, with the crisp air and stunning autumn colours adding to its appeal. It’s a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path destination perfect for a self-drive escape into the NSW highlands.

Highlights & What to See

• Wine tasting at cellar doors: Visit boutique wineries like Petersons Wines, Topper Creek Wines and the award-winning Oakey Creek Wines. Many offer cellar door tastings with sweeping valley views.
• Armidale’s heritage and culture: Explore the New England Regional Art Museum, the historic town centre with Victorian architecture, and the Aboriginal cultural sites around the area.
• Waterfall Way scenic drive: Combine wine tasting with a drive along Waterfall Way, stopping at stunning cascades like Ebor Falls and Wollomombi Falls, the highest in NSW.
• Glen Innes and the Australian Standing Stones: Discover the Celtic heritage of Glen Innes, home to the Australian Standing Stones – a monument to Celtic migrants – and nearby national parks.
• Seasonal events: Time your visit for the New England Wine Festival (usually in October) or the Armidale Autumn Festival for a true taste of local culture.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least two full days to properly explore the wine region. Spend the first day driving the scenic loop from Armidale, visiting three or four cellar doors and enjoying lunch at a vineyard. Dedicate the second day to the Waterfall Way drive or exploring Glen Innes. If you’re a keen hiker or nature lover, a third day allows for walks in the nearby national parks. The region is best visited in autumn (March–May) for mild days and spectacular foliage, or in spring (September–November) for wildflowers and wine events.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dorrigo National Park – part of the Gondwana Rainforests, with excellent walking trails and the Skywalk canopy lookout.
• Coffs Harbour – a coastal contrast with beaches, the Big Banana, and the Solitary Islands Marine Park.
• Port Macquarie – a relaxed seaside town with a koala hospital and coastal walks, about 2 hours east.
• Tamworth – Australia’s country music capital, with a vibrant music scene and the Golden Guitar museum.
• Oxley Wild Rivers National Park – dramatic gorges and waterfalls, ideal for hiking and camping.

Please check official sources for current details.