Hartley Historic Village

Where we would normally rush back to Sydney, we took the turn-off to Hartley. What a great surprise. With lots of informative information panels we strolled through the town, and learned about the rich history of the place. A visit to the antiques store is like stepping back into childhood. Fantastic!

Wow - what a wonderful weekend our family just spent in Hartley!
We stayed in the lovely Old Trahlee Cottage which was so comfortable and beautifully restored without losing the charm and feeling of history - well done National Parks & Wildlife service
There were some really interesting buildings to visit and our grandchildren loved both the courthouse & the church
Another favourite & probably the best was The River Walk
Thank you for a brilliant weekend Hartley - we will return

You feel there are some energies here, takes you back to 1800’s, calms your mind, beautiful solitary place to visit

Is a historic village that exists for more than 150 years. Walk in to the visitors reception to buy ticket $8.80 for adults, this is to access into the heritage court house and the church. Reception will give you access code to unlock the digital lock.
Also, Talisman workshop and gallery is a must to visit, many amazing hand-made art pieces. Not much people in the weekend morning. We spent 1 hour plus to visit here which including little walk to see the river and the granite rock.

A great place for a quick detour on your way to Bathurst as the Historic Village is just off the highway. We didn't get any tickets but just had a quick wonder around to check out the well preserved Historic buildings. The Riverbank walk is definitely unexpected and quite enjoyable.

Step into this historic inland settlement among the sandstone buildings of Hartley Historic Site, on the western edge of the Blue Mountains near Lithgow. Stay in the newly renovated historic cottages. The village also offers a gallery and tours.

Step back in time within the historic village of Hartley set into the western edge of the beautiful Blue Mountains. Set among pastures, orchards, native plants and nineteenth and twentieth-century cottage gardens, the village’s lovely sandstone buildings preserve an important piece of history: the settlement of inland Australia.

Seventeen buildings tell the story of the village, from the 1837 Greek Revival courthouse to Corneys Garage, built in 1945 of timber and iron. Explore the artefacts and family histories, find out about the region’s past at the visitor centre, or enjoy a picnic in the absolute serenity of historic Hartley.

In recognition of Hartley’s heritage significance, an exciting revitalisation plan is being developed, with improved facilities and new exhibition spaces. There are already a number of fascinating tours and events held at Hartley, so call ahead to get involved.

OK for a quick stop along the highway. The Rowsons River walking track was our highlight (particularly the boardwalk section), although you will need good mobility to navigate the steep dirt path at the entry.

It's not too busy out there. You will need to head directly to the visitors reception to get tickets. It was $8.8 for adults, reception will give you access codes to the heritage court house and the church. There's also the Talisman workshop and gallery which was amazing, a bit pricey but there are some affordable souvenirs. The river walk is a must, it was the best part of our visit.

Excellent will visit again later and have a good look around cause I find this place very interesting

Good tidy campsite just off the road. Three campsites available, quite level parking areas. However the smell from the toilet wafting to the campsite made it not so enjoyable. If you can park as far away from the toilet (composting) as you can.

An insightful, enriching piece of history backed up by the friendly and helpful staff.

Highly worth the stop!

Enjoyed this. A historic village in beautiful surroundings. Information centre lady was knowledgeable and friendly. Information plaques were plentiful and the video display of photos from the 19th Century was intriguing. Get a free map and walk around admiring the restored sandstone and slab buildings and pristine creek walkway. Only a small fee of $8.80/person (2023) gives you entry to the Courthouse, Gaol and Church. This is an activity for any weather. We spent 2 hours meandering around the buildings and creek, but could have spent longer if we'd brought a picnic.

Didn’t like the visitor centre or the person inside full of their own arrogance good bye one star review only because zero isn’t available

This is a gorgeous site. I highly recommend the self-guided tour. I really loved the hologram feature in the courthouse. The staff member at the info centre was very friendly and helpful!

We visited the Hartley Historic Site without buying a tour and the information provided was very interesting and made some great photos with the old buildings. Cold drinks and ice-cream is available for purchase, and the amenities were very clean and spacious. I'm sure a tour inside the buildings would be very interesting, but as a stop during a roadtrip, the free version was enough.

Today I was driving by and had to stop so I pulled in here.driving passed one of the buildings I think I saw a ghost. After little bit of research I found out this place is hunted wow. I'm not sure if its definitely a ghost I need some one to confirm if they seem a ghost with long blonde hair with no face and clothes from 1800s

There is a working blacksmith which is worthwhile seeing.
Has a few historical buildings which are closed, could be a real nice little historic village with the right attractions.

Talisman Gallery a must visit. I won't say anymore, I'll leave the surprise up to the individual

Beutifull stop. Not a massive attraction in the sense of say a big museum. But has a charm and timelessness you won't regret enjoying. Views are stunning.

Had a wonderful time there in 2019 with my fellow CWA ladies on our bus trip. This wasn't my first time here but it is good to see how well looked after and protected this place still is. This place is a remarkable remnant of our past and history that we are fortunate to still have. It gives a wonderful snapshot into what life was like for those pioneers who braved an uncertain and dangerous land beyond the cities. Well worth a visit.