Although Bowenfels is now essentially a suburb of Lithgow, it was, in fact, the first settlement in the valley, predating the existence of the larger city by nearly 40 years. The village emerged in the early 1830’s to serve travelers along Mitchell’s new line of road to Bathurst, completed in 1832.
Mr. Mitchell named the township after George Mears Bowen, a former member of his department with whom he had quarreled. The arrival of the railway in 1869 enabled the industrialization and development of Lithgow but it also signaled the decline of the road town of Bowenfels.
The first Presbyterian Church (1842) and national school (1851) west of the Blue Mountains were also established here. Bowenfels now serves as the gateway to a myriad of interesting attractions including the Evans Crown Nature Reserve, Mt Blaxland, Lake Lyell, and villages, Rydal, Sodwalls and Tarana.
Lithgow’s Bowenfels Gun Emplacement is the only known inland heavy anti aircraft gun emplacement of its type in NSW. The Gun Emplacements were constructed during World War II to protect Lithgow’s important mining, manufacturing and transport industries as well as the Small Arms Factory. Following the entry of Japan into World War II and improvements in aircraft technology there were growing concerns about the vulnerability of inland areas.
Lake Lyell, built by the electricity Commission to provide cooling water for the Wallerawang and Mount Piper Power Stations offers the prospect of trout fishing, swimming, power boating, water skiing and hydroplane racing. There is a camping area with toilets and picnicking facilities.
Accommodation | Attractions near Old Bowenfels
Kookawood is a unique self contained accommodation Stone and Timber farmhouse Magnificent views of the Blue Mountains Filled with antiques and collectibles. Ideal for 2 – 4 adults + 2 children Pet friendly, secure backyard Set on 200 acres. Private and peaceful.
Set on 9 acres, the Bushman's Motor Inn features an on-site restaurant and bar.
Location: 526 Great Western Highway, 2790 LithgowWebsite: https://www.bushmanslithgow.com.au/Phone: 02 6352 1655
A Secret Valley is an exclusive retreat open only to guests in order to preserve the absolute serenity and magical experience of the Australian bush.
Location: 548 Blackheath Creek Road, Little Hartley, NSWWebsite: https://www.secretvalleyescape.com/Phone: (02) 4787 1967
Glenroy is a magnificent historical rural property overlooking the Coxs River in Hartley.
Location: 200 Jenolan Caves Road, Hartley. NSW. 2790Website: https://www.glenroycottages.comPhone: 02 6355 2186
Historic inland settlement with sandstone buildings, café, gallery and historic tours, plus accommodation in newly renovated cottages.
Location: 45 Old Great Western Hwy, Hartley NSW 2790, AustraliaWebsite: https://nationalparks.nsw.gov.auPhone: (02) 6355 2117
Lithgow Apartments are brand new one bedroom serviced apartments in the heart of Lithgow.
