Young

Nestled in the rolling hills of the South West Slopes, Young is a sun-drenched town that wears its title as Australia's Cherry Capital with pride. This is a place where orchards sprawl across the landscape, the pace of life slows to a country drawl, and the local produce is nothing short of spectacular. Beyond the cherry blossoms, Young offers a genuine slice of rural New South Wales, with a rich gold-rush history and a warm, welcoming community.

Highlights & What to See

• Cherry orchards and fruit picking – From November to January, you can wander through orchards and pick your own cherries, peaches, and nectarines. The fragrant air and burst of flavour from a sun-warmed cherry is unforgettable.
• Young National Cherry Festival – Held each December, this week-long celebration features parades, street fairs, and the crowning of the Cherry King and Queen. It's a vibrant, family-friendly event that showcases the region's agricultural heart.
• Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Gardens – A serene and beautifully landscaped park that commemorates the Chinese miners who worked the goldfields here. The gardens are a peaceful spot for a stroll, with a lake, pagoda, and informative plaques.
• Young Historical Museum – Housed in the old railway station, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town's gold-mining and agricultural past, with well-curated exhibits and friendly volunteers.
• Wombat Hill Arboretum – A short drive from town, this hilltop garden offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a peaceful walk among native and exotic trees.

Suggested Time to Spend

Young rewards a relaxed pace. A weekend is ideal: spend one day exploring the town's museums and gardens, and another visiting orchards or taking a scenic drive through the countryside. If you're here for the Cherry Festival, plan for at least two to three days to soak in the festivities. For a quick stop, half a day is enough to explore the main sights and grab a bag of cherries from a roadside stall.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra – The national capital is just over an hour's drive east, offering world-class museums, galleries, and dining.
• Wagga Wagga – A vibrant regional city on the Murrumbidgee River, with a lively arts scene and excellent food.
• Hilltops Wine Region – Young is part of the Hilltops wine region, known for its cool-climate shiraz and cabernet sauvignon. Several cellar doors are within a 20-minute drive.
• Burrinjuck Waters State Park – A scenic lake area perfect for water sports, fishing, and camping, about 45 minutes north.
• Boorowa – A charming historic town with a lovely main street and the famous Boorowa Irish Woolfest in October.

Please check official sources for current details.