Kendall

Kendall is a charming country village on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, famous as the birthplace of poet Les Murray and for its well-preserved 19th-century streetscape. Set amid rolling green hills and dairy country, it offers a relaxed detour for travellers exploring the hinterland behind Port Macquarie. The main street is lined with heritage buildings housing antique shops, cafés and galleries, while the surrounding area rewards nature lovers with national parks and scenic drives.

Highlights & What to See

• Kendall Heritage Walk – Stroll the main street and side lanes to admire Victorian-era buildings including the former bank and the School of Arts. Interpretive signs tell the town's story.
• Les Murray's Birthplace – A simple plaque marks the site of the poet's childhood home at 1-3 Comboyne Street, a pilgrimage for literary fans.
• Kendall Showground & Markets – On the first Saturday of the month, the community market fills the showground with local produce, crafts and homemade treats.
• Kendall Public School Murals – The school's exterior features vibrant murals depicting local history, created by students and artists.
• Kendall Forest & Gum Scrub – Head a few kilometres out of town to walk through remnant rainforest and eucalypt forest; look for bellbirds and lyrebirds.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is enough to wander the main street, visit the markets (if it's the right weekend) and do a short bushwalk. If you plan to explore nearby national parks or combine with a wine-tasting loop, allow a full day. Kendall works well as a lunch stop or a quiet overnight stay at a heritage B&B.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie – 35 km east; beaches, coastal walks and the Koala Hospital.
• Wauchope – 20 km north; gateway to the Hastings River and the historic Timbertown attraction.
• Comboyne – 25 km west; a scenic drive through rainforest to a tiny village with a pub and views over the valley.
• Bago – 15 km south; a blink-and-you'll-miss-it hamlet surrounded by state forest, perfect for a quiet picnic.
• Lake Cathie – 30 km east; a coastal lake popular for kayaking and birdwatching.

Please check official sources for current details.