Lithgow History Avenue
Lithgow History Avenue is a representation of the important milestones in the history of Lithgow captured in sculpture. There are 30 pieces of works along Inch Street, each of which is an opportunity to learn more about the history of Lithgow. Local metal artist Phil Spark’s works stretch from the top of Inch Street, past Eskbank Station and Eskbank House to the entrance of Blast Furnace Park. A walk through Lithgow History Avenue will bring alive the history of Lithgow for all to enjoy.
You can browse the mobile friendly site at Lithgow History Avenue, while you are enjoying the walk.
Fun on the Farm – Self Drive
Jannei Goat Dairy, Lidsdale Fresh and waxed cheeses, yoghurt and milk. Open Sunday 1pm – 6pm, Monday and Wednesday 10am – 6pm. Other times by appointment. Map reference B2
Tourist Drive 1
Follow the signs on Lithgow Street in the centre of town. The circuit drive passes spectacular views at Hassans Walls Lookout and returns via the Gap Road. Detour via Bracey Lookout on the return journey for a view over Lithgow. Lithgow Heritage Drive. See also Around Lithgow
Drives north…
Reach the Glow Worm Tunnel in Wollemi National Park via Newnes State Forest from Clarence. Take Wolgan Valley Road to Newnes Historic Ruins, 50 kilometres from Lithgow. The old hotel, now the Newnes Kiosk, is all that still stands of a once thriving shale oil mining town. There’s no petrol at Newnes but there are lots of natural picnic and camping spots. Map reference C1
The ruins of Glen Davis, a former shale mining town which once housed over 1600 people, lie 80 kilometres from Lithgow. The town has a museum and a camping ground. Map reference C1
Drives north-west…
13 kilometres from Lithgow you’ll pass the power station and St. John’s Church at Wallerawang. Around 7 kilometres further down the Mudgee road is Mt Piper Power Station and Energy Expo. Lakes Wallace and Lyell provide cooling water for the power stations as well as recreational and camping facilities. At Portland, 27 kilometres from Lithgow, are two large limestone kilns as well as Charlie Pinch’s Museum. Map reference 2B
The 36 kilometre drive to Sunny Corner from Lithgow takes you over mostly sealed roads through pastoral land and pine forests. Map reference 2A
Drives west…
Rydal and Tarana are picturesquely located villages in undulating, green countryside. Beyond Tarana, Oberon Dam is 50 kilometres from Lithgow. Map reference 3A
Drives south-east…
Hartley Valley Drive
Visit historic South Bowenfels, then head along the Great Western Highway to Hartley, a century village 12 kilometres from Lithgow. The Court House, now a museum, opens every day except Wednesday. Further east, turn off the highway to Hartley Vale, site of the Collitts and Comet inns and an old shale mine. Map reference 3C
Drives south…
Hampton, offering spectacular views of the Kanimbla Valley, is en route to Jenolan Caves. 60 kin from Lithgow, the famous limestone caves are surrounded by a wildlife reserve boasting well made nature trails. Daily guided tours available. Map reference 4B
Drives east…
Mount Victoria is a 22 kilometre drive from Lithgow and 4 kilometres south of Mount York. At Mount York there are barbeques, toilets and water near an obelisk commemorating Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth’s historic mountain crossing. Map reference 3C
Mount Wilson is an area of lush vegetation with plenty of lookouts, walks and private gardens, open for inspection in spring and autumn. On the southern side of Bells Line of Road, past the turn-off to Mount Wilson, is Pierces Pass. From the picnic area you can embark on cliff and valley walks in Grose Valley. Further cast, along Bells Line of Road, is the cool climate Mount Tomah Botanic Garden. Map reference D3
