Springwood
Springwood is located about 72 kms west of Sydney in the lower Blue Mountains.
As you drive up through the Blue Mountains along the Great Western Hwy from the direction of Sydney, it is worthwhile taking a detour through the pretty town of Springwood (turn left under the railway bridge when you see the Springwood Town Centre sign).
The main street is on the south side of the railway line and is surprisingly long and features many historic buildings.
Springwood was one of the early towns in the region. Explorers Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson made a base camp at Springwood in 1813 during their crossing of the Blue Mountains. In 1815 Governor Macquarie also camped there and gave the town its name after camping in a pretty wooded area near a spring of fresh water. The main street of Springwood is named Macquarie Road, after Governor Macquarie.
Springwood went on to become a popular mountain retreat with many fine holiday homes being built by wealthy and influential people from Sydney.
For more details on the history of Springwood, visit the Springwood Historians Blogspot (www.springwoodhistorians.blogspot.com).
Take time to explore the history and natural beauty of Springwood.
Braemar Gallery
Braemar was originally built as a family home by James Hunter Lawson in 1892. It has had a long and varied history as a hospital, boarding house, guest house and library. Braemar is now a community venue showcasing the work of local artists. Exhibitions change regularly.
Open 10am – 4pm Fri-Sun or by appointment
104 Macquarie Rd, Springwood
Website: www.braemargallery.com
Telephone 02-4723-5-46
Ori Café at the Oriental Hotel
The Oriental Hotel opened in 1891 and is Heritage listed. Enjoy modern Australian cuisine at the award-winning Ori Café (www.oricafe.com.au) at 112 Macquarie Rd, Springwood, telephone 02-4751-7799.
Frazer Memorial Presbyterian Church
Built in 1895 on land donated by a wealthy Sydney resident John Frazer who built a holiday house in Springwood. The church is one of the most beautiful buildings on Macquarie Rd.
Springwood Railway Station
Built in 1884, Springwood Railway Station on Macquarie Rd is one of the oldest stations in the Blue Mountains and is classified by the National Trust.
Royal Hotel
Built in 1881 by Thomas Boland, the Royal Hotel is located on Macquarie Rd opposite the Springwood Railway Station.
Francesca Park
Francesca Park is privately owned however the three acres of gardens are open to the public during Spring and Autumn each year.
Open 10am – 4pm May, September and October
Where:14 Ellison Rd, Springwood
Website: www.francescapark.com.au
Norman Lindsay Gallery & Museum
At nearby Faulconbridge, Norman Lindsay lived and worked in a beautiful estate called "Springwood". It is now operated by the National Trust as a gallery and museum of his work and is well worth a visit. Enjoy a meal at the award-winning Lindsay's Cafe, located in the grounds of the gallery.
Open 10am-4pm every day (except Christmas Day)
Where: 14 Norman Lindsay Crescent, Faulconbridge
Website: www.normanlindsay.com.au
Telephone 02-4751-1067
Springwood Foundation Day
Every year in March or April, Springwood celebrates Foundation Day with a street parade, a 400m Dash running race, live music, street stalls and amusements for the whole family.
Bushwalking around Springwood
There are a few good walks in Springwood. One walk is from Fairy Dell to Lawsons Lookout, and there are other walks starting from Sassafras Gully Reserve. Check details of these walks with the Blue Mountains Visitors Information Centre, telephone 1300-653-408.
