Things to Do Around Paterson: History, Nature, and Outdoor Fun
There are plenty of things to do around Paterson NSW in the lower Hunter Valley. Paterson was named after Colonel William Paterson, the first known European in the area in the early 1800’s. A road trip to Paterson NSW today, promises a fascinating blend of exploration, natural beauty and rich history.
Enjoy the picturesque countryside with the Paterson River running through it and wander Paterson’s well-preserved historical buildings and sites that offer an insight into Australia’s colonial past. Remember that Paterson NSW is a serene and tranquil destination, so relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while you explore its history and natural beauty of the area.
Paterson NSW also offers plenty of things to do with numerous outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. You can easily take on further adventures hiking, kayaking, or 4WDriving and take advantage of the easy access to the spectacular Barrington Tops National Park – a haven for nature lovers with lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. Paterson NSW is an excellent choice as a getaway into New South Wales.
Wellness & Pampering
- An expert range of body and facial treatments can be indulged at Adnama Beauty. Please book well in advance.
- For weddings, contact Chic Artistry for bridal hair and makeup.
Explore & Discover Paterson, NSW
- Tocal Homestead: One of Australia’s finest colonial farm collections from the 1830s, overlooking the Tocal lagoon and Paterson River. Open Sundays from 10am–3pm (March-November).
- Paterson Court House Museum – a beautifully preserved sandstone building dating back to the 19th century.
- Paterson riverbank – picnic, BBQ and enjoy the tranquillity or go birdwatching
- Barrington Tops National Park:- a UNESCO world heritage site with lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. birdwatching, camping and 4WD adventures.
- Dungog and Gresford: Explore local art galleries, historical sites, or soak in the rural atmosphere.
- Paterson Historical Walk: Pick up a map at Paterson Country Café for a self-guided tour through the town’s heritage sites.

Additional Things to Do around Paterson, NSW and Surrounds
- Williams River Picnic Area & Gloucester Falls: Perfect spots to relax in nature.
- Local Events: Check for festivals like the Vacy Country Festival and Sculpture on the Farm in Dungog.
- Bitter & Twisted Beer Festival: Held annually at Maitland Gaol with over 80 draft beers to try.
- Maitland Regional Art Gallery: A great stop for art lovers.
- Maitland Gaol: Explore this former maximum-security prison.
- Hunter Valley Wine Tasting: Visit nearby wineries such as Tranquil Vale, Petersen, and Tulloch Wines.
- New Year’s Eve at Tucker Park: Fireworks, live music, and fun activities organized by local volunteers.
- Mortels Sheepskin Factory
- Wine tasting in Pokolbin such as Tranquil Vale Vineyard; Petersen Wineries ; Tulloch Wines ; Hanging Tree Wines;

- Play a round of golf at the Paterson Golf Club
- Listen to Amber Lawrence at the School of Arts Tour
- Join the locals at Tucker Park for fun and fireworks at the New Years Eve Celebrations! There’s also live music, children’s entertainment, carnival fun, singing, dancing, games, face painting…. Organised by Paterson Rotary Club volunteers.
- Visit Paterson Rail Motor Museum and see the old station masters residence that has been restored to its 1930s exterior and appearance colour scheme by State Rail Heritage.
- Train enthusiasts can board at Paterson for a ride on heritage rail motors. The Rail Motor Society offers return trips to Dungog, Monkerai, or Stroud Road, with morning or afternoon tea served onboard. Combine the ride with a museum tour and lunch at a local venue. The depot is located opposite Paterson Station. For more details, call (02) 4938 5411.
- Join in the Artful Awareness Meditation Session: – Retreat to the beauty of the Hunter Valley and join The Mindful Picnic! Every month Artful Awareness Meditation hosts an exclusive mini 3 hour workshop for just ten lucky people serving up a smorgasbord of different meditations and mindfulness exercises by the Williams River. Have fun relaxing with friends and making new ones, learn new styles of mediation and a little of the emerging science behind it, and taste the flavours of the region with our mindful tasting.
- Award winning full day food and wine experience. Explore some of the best big and boutique wineries and vineyards in the Hunter Valley without the hassle of arranging your own transportation, tastings, and tours during this full-day excursion. Ideal for wine lovers of all ages,
Good Eats
- For fine dining, it is definitely worth the short trip to Morpeth to enjoy an award winning Boydell’s culinary adventure.
- Fresh homemade pasta and gnocchi can be indulged in this well reviewed New York style Italian eatery Fratelli Roma located in Maitland.
- The Tinshed Brewery located at 109 Dowling St, Dungog NSW produces great craft beer, and has a rotating tap list including a cider from various great producers of Australian cider.
- Wines and local gin from the Farmers Wife Distillery a 45 minute drive from Tocal, especially if doing group tasting / dining at the Farmers Wife Distillery who also offer private tastings and corporate events.
- Paterson Tavern & Yabbies Bistro (pub food with a modern twist). Soak up the ambience and have a drink!
- Paterson Country Cafe – 24 King St, Paterson NSW
Foodies
- Pick up some local produce at the Paterson Valley Farm ( fresh seasonal vegetable boxes – 10 boxes available each week filled with seasonal vegetables picked fresh on Saturday)
- Grazing boxes available from the Paterson Pantry
- Blakeney’s Pies – worth the 16km drive – 52 Melbourne St, East Maitland NSW 2323 (The original Blakeney’s Pies, creating delicious pastries since 1992 and handmade and rolled fresh daily – baked chunky steak pies, pasties and sausage rolls)
- Book a sourdough baking class at The Historic Arnottes Bakehouse.

Retail Escapes
- Antique shops in Dungog
- Handmade and handpicked Markets next to the Hinton Pub – 40+ stalls usually of trash and treasure, homemade goodies, good coffee.. and more! For further details please email kdelboux@outlook.com or see their Facebook community noticeboard
- Paterson Service Station & Riverside Deck Cafe
- Vacy General Store Cafe & Gifts
- Morpeth boutique stores dotted around the town such as Campbell’s Store – My Maitland and Morpeth Emporium – My Maitland
- Antique shops in Dungog
- Aird (airdsoflochinvar.com.au)
If you think Paterson NSW sounds like an amazing holiday destination, why not see our Stays with a WOW accommodation.