There are some wonderful spots to take in the local scenery. Most are easily accessible and others may require a short walk. View across the town or the historic goldfields are easily found and they are a great motivator to get out and enjoy some light exercise. This view is from the Precipice lookout which takes in the farming fields below that were once bustling with miners and aspiring business people. You can walk along this plateau from the Beechworth Gorge across to Woolshed Falls following the gently flowing Spring Creek. It is a well maintained track but do watch out for snacks and other critters during the Spring and Summer months when the grass is tall and dry.
There is plenty of fun to be had in Beechworth, especially during the many festivals that we celebrate each year. From the boutique wines and gourmet foods of the Harvest Celebration through to the hustle and bustle diversity of the annual Golden Horseshoes Festival there is something for everyone. From the smell of the petrol and grease of the Drive Back in time to the more delicate nature of model trains and antique fairs, the sounds or Celtic bagpipes to the rumblings of bushrangers and police on horseback during the Ned Kelly weekend. There are costumes and characters, rogues and rebels, all to be found in Beechworth.
Cultural diversity is just one of the many attractions about living in Beechworth. As a community our residents have arrived from all over the world and from all walks of life. Of course there are many people that have lived her for generations and the core of what Beechworth has become. The newer residents have brought with them new ideas, skills and energy, together the old and the new are driving Beechworth’s future. Each year at events such as the Golden Horseshoes festival we celebrate our past, present and future. Come along and help us celebrate, you will find the locals friendly and welcoming, and who knows, you may decide to stay for a while.
If you are arriving in Beechworth and need a meal you will be glad to know there are plenty of options. From the fine dining experiences through to the convenience of quick local food there is something for you and your family. Of course there are several famous options but there are also a number of excellent local cafes, diners and boutique eateries. It is worth noting that not everything is in the centre of town with a number of out of town businesses also offering some delightful food options. Some of the local wineries also provide meals and a number of the accommodation providers can arrange picnic baskets and the like.
If you are someone that loves the outdoors then the Beechworth region has plenty to offer. There are some wonderful walking tracks, bike trails and viewpoints from which to take in the surrounding landscapes. And if you are a family and have not yet discovered the fun of geocaching then Beechworth is a great place to start with plenty of little ‘treasures’ to unearth. We are also luck enough to have an abundance of native Australian wildlife including koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, monitor lizards, wallabies, birds and even fish. In fact one of the often undiscovered secrets is the picturesque Lake Sambell which has a public beach, free BBQ’s, Children’s play equipment and a boat ramp.
Much of the success of Beechworth as a destination can be attributed to its stunningly preserved history and colonial culture. From the historic precinct and the old gaol to the old granite quarries and majestic buildings there is a taste of history to be discovered. One of the popular attractions is the regular outings of the Beechworth re-enactment group which adds to the atmosphere of colonial streets but modern day offerings. There are many other historic locations to discover including Woolshed Falls, Flat Rock, Ingram’s Lookout, the Cemetery and Mayday Hills, just to name a few. If your feel like a walk then maybe take the trail to Lake Kerferd past some of the old mine shafts. There s plenty to see and do in Beechworth.
Beechworth is well known as a town that loves to celebrate. Some people even say that it is a rare occurrence when there is now something happening in, or around, Beechworth. There is a wide variety of festivals including the very popular Celtic Festival, Golden Horseshoes Easter Festival, Drive Back in Time Vintage and Veteran Car weekend, Harvest Celebration, Ned Kelly weekend and a whole host of other events. The festivals create a real buzz of excitement around town and attract people from across Australia as well as the nearby towns. If you are planning on experiencing Beechworth during a festival weekend be sure to arrive early as parking can be scarce.
When you are looking for a place to cool down during the hot Summer months then take the short drive from Beechworth out to Woolshed Falls. You can hop amongst the falls – be careful they are slippery and there is a big drop off where the water plunges into the gorge below. There are rock pools to sit in and enjoy the cool waters, historic walks to discover and maybe bring along a picnic lunch. Woolshed Falls also has an observation deck from where you can get an excellent view of the cascading waters and also the creek that heads further down Reidy Creek. This is another of Beechworth’s wonderful natural attractions, be sure to take any rubbish home with you and only to leave your footprints
The original occupants of Beechworth, Australia were the Aboriginal Clans who occupied the area for many years. In the 1800s gold was discovered with thousands of people from all over the world rushing to the gold fields. Visiting this town today takes one back to these gold rush days and the immediate time that followed.
With the gold discovery of 1852, the area erupted into a population of thousands of occupants. These people were from all walks of life and lived wherever possible. Among these pioneers were the Chinese whose presence is noted restoration at this location. By 1867, a total of 4 million ounces had been found. Eventually, the gold ran out and the remaining people build the town of Beechworth.
Visitors selecting this destination today are privileged to view a restored version of the original town. Granite curbs, Victorian houses, shaded streets make one feel that they are back in that era. In addition, some original gold diggings and other buildings are available for exploration. A goal, built between 1859 and 1864 is present and is still in use by the residents.
This town presents a unique opportunity to visit the 19th century restorations. Some businesses have their staff attired in authentic clothing representing the Victorian period which makes on feel they have gone back in time. Transportation available to reach Beechworth includes the highway, train, bus or air. The airport is located in Albury where rental cars and taxis are available for hire.
With the visitor in mind, there are several different types of accommodations available. Bed and Breakfast, self-contained, hotel, motel, caravan and camping sites have been constructed with the comforts of the visitor in mind. It is especially accommodating for those who wish to camp out and enjoy an outdoor atmosphere. There is something for everyone including places that allow pets.
Whether wishing to hike, bicycle, enjoy winter sports or take a wine tasting tour there is something for everyone who visits the area. The restaurants are outstanding and will appeal to anyone with special desires in food. The national parks, and other outdoor attractions are beautiful and a pleasure to explore with guides available.
There are many interesting tours and day trips available for those desiring to learn more about the area. One that is especially fascinating is the Ghost Tour in which one visits a former lunatic asylum. Festivals and other events are constant throughout the year and very interesting for those interested in learning about the area and its people.
Many well known artists reside in the town, which enables a visitor to pick up an original piece of art. Having a 'one of a kind' item makes it a unique addition to one's home. Many specialty shops are present which feature things like pottery, handcrafts, collectables and many other interesting things. These things, plus visiting a completely restored historical site such as Beachworth is an experience that will be remembered forever.
