Forbes

Forbes, a historic gold-rush town on the Lachlan River in the Central West of NSW, offers a genuine slice of Australian outback heritage. Its wide, tree-lined streets and well-preserved 19th-century buildings evoke the era of bushrangers and gold fever. Today, it’s a relaxed stop for travellers exploring the region, with a strong community spirit, excellent museums, and a surprising food scene.

Highlights & What to See

• Forbes Heritage Trail – A self-guided walk past 40 historic sites, including the grand Town Hall, the old Post Office, and the beautifully restored Forbes Railway Station.
• Bushranger history at the Forbes & District Historical Museum – Housed in the former hospital, this museum tells the story of the area’s gold rush and the infamous bushranger Ben Hall, who was shot near Forbes.
• Lachlan River precinct – Stroll along the riverbank, picnic under the river red gums, and spot birdlife. The floating pontoon is a great spot for fishing.
• Ben Hall’s grave – Located in the Forbes Cemetery, the grave of the bushranger is a poignant and popular stop for history buffs.
• Weddin Mountains National Park – A short drive away, this park offers bushwalks through eucalypt forests, with views over the valley and a chance to see echidnas and kangaroos.

Suggested Time to Spend

Forbes is best enjoyed as a half-day stop or an overnight stay. Spend a couple of hours exploring the heritage trail and museum, then relax by the river. If you’re keen on hiking, add a half-day for the Weddin Mountains. Forbes works well as a break between Sydney and the outback, or as part of a loop through the Central West.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Parkes – Home to the famous Elvis Festival and the CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope (The Dish), 30 minutes north.
• Grenfell – The birthplace of poet Henry Lawson, with a lovely historic main street, 40 minutes west.
• Condobolin – A classic outback town with a great museum and the nearby Lake Cargelligo, 50 minutes west.
• Lachlan Valley Way – A scenic drive along the Lachlan River, linking Forbes to Cowra and its Japanese garden.
• Eugowra – A small town with a historic pub and the site of the Escort Rock bushranger ambush.

Please check official sources for current details.