Wingham – The Host Town

 

The heritage town of Wingham is developing a strong reputation as a must for anyone visiting the Barrington Coast.

For those who haven’t been to Wingham before, there is a sense of discovery: a town that has retained its strong heritage values and natural beauty while boasting a range of thriving businesses with a modern edge.

For those who haven’t visited in a while, you will find many spots including boutique stores and our award-winning  sponsor café Bent On Food, that have helped Wingham receive favourable coverage in specialist food magazines, tourism brochures and metropolitan newspapers.

Wingham is the oldest town in the Manning Valley, first settled in 1853. Established as a government town, Wingham is built in the English tradition around a town green, Central Park. The park is surrounded by many beautifully preserved heritage buildings, a number of which are listed on the National Trust. A visit to the Wingham Museum, where our Manning Valley Historical Society has put together the wonders of our rich history. is a must,  and they are open 7 days of the week. 

Walking distance from the CBD is the Wingham Brush Nature Reserve, forming the last 10 hectares of subtropical floodplain rainforest in the State. Wander down the nature trails to discover giant Moreton Bay fig trees and one of Australia ’s largest permanent populations of grey-headed flying foxes. The Brush leads down to reveal the mighty Manning River, once the economic lifeblood of the town used to export timber and agricultural products to Sydney. Today, its importance is more of an environmental and recreational one, ideal for boating, and also offers free camping.

Wingham is surrounded by natural beauty. The abundance of water means the town is green year-round, with natural wonders hiding only a short drive from the CBD. Wingham is the gateway to the jewel of the Manning Valley, the spectacular Ellenborough Falls, one of the highest single-drop waterfalls in the southern hemisphere. A number of other stunning National Parks and peaceful camping grounds are just around the corner.

Wingham also offers a smorgasbord of annual events which cater to every taste including the highland pageantry of the Bonnie Wingham Scottish Festival in May-June, the industry showcase that is Wingham Beef Week in May and the captivating live music of the Wingham Music Festival in October.

Come for a day, a weekend or longer – you’ll discover people with heart and soul and a town full of surprises.

Things to see and do while in Wingham

  • Wingham Brush

    This nature reserve represents the last 10 hectares of subtropical floodplain rainforest in NSW. The rare rainforest is found walking distance from the town’s central business district. Wander through the walking trails and marvel at the majestic Moreton Bay figs and see the native wildlife including brush turkeys and grey-headed flying foxes. The Brush opens up to the mighty Manning River, perfect for boating, and a delightful picnic area.

    Heritage buildings: Wingham boasts a number of well-preserved heritage buildings, many of which are National Trust listed. Take a walk around Central Park and see these Federation and Victorian-style architectural sites.

  • Wingham Museum

    This is the head quarters of the Manning Valley Historical Society and the museum is home to a bursting array of local historical artifacts. Come to the museum to see the jail cell of notorious bush ranger Jimmy Governor.

  • Ellenborough Falls

    It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

  • Manning River

    The river, which passes through town and is the centre of the valley, is great for fishing, boating, water skiing and other leisure activities.

  • Shopping

    Wingham offers a number of boutique shopping experiences covering men’s and women’s fashion, giftware, galleries and craft.

  • Food

    Wingham has developed a strong reputation as the centre for local produce. Award winning café Bent on  Food and  other cafes can be found in the CBD, just a short work from the Wingham Showground.

Wingham