Kew

Kew is a tiny, historic village in the Camden Haven region, just west of Port Macquarie. Once a bustling timber town, today it’s a peaceful stop for travellers seeking a glimpse of 19th-century Australian rural life, with a handful of well-preserved buildings and a welcoming country pub.

Highlights & What to See

• Kew House Museum: This charming 1880s residence showcases local history, including timber-getting and pioneering family life. The cottage garden is a delight.
• Historic St. Michael’s Church: A pretty wooden church built in 1905, still in use and surrounded by a peaceful cemetery.
• Kew General Store: Operating since the 1880s, this old-style store sells local produce and a great pie – perfect for a roadside picnic.
• Kew Pub (The Kew Hotel): A classic country pub with a beer garden, hearty meals, and a welcoming atmosphere. Drop in for a cold drink and a chat with locals.
• Kew Cemetery: Wander among headstones dating back to the 1800s, telling stories of early settlers and timber workers.
• Nearby Walking Tracks: Short walks through remnant rainforest and along the Wilson River offer a taste of the region’s natural beauty.

Suggested Time to Spend

Kew is a tiny village, so you can comfortably explore it in 1–2 hours. Most visitors spend 30 minutes at the museum, then grab a coffee at the general store and a drink at the pub. If you’re combining it with a walk or a meal, allow up to half a day. It’s an ideal short stop on a drive between Port Macquarie and Wauchope or the hinterland.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wauchope: A friendly timber town with the Timbertown heritage park and a historic main street.
• Port Macquarie: The coastal hub offers beaches, the Koala Hospital, and the Hastings River walk.
• Camden Haven: The nearby cluster of Laurieton, North Haven, and Dunbogan provides beautiful waterways and national parks.
• Bago Maze & Winery: A fun, family-friendly attraction with a wine tasting and a giant hedge maze, located just south of Kew.
• Cowarra State Conservation Area: A protected forest with walking trails and picnic spots, ideal for a nature break.

Please check official sources for current details.