Tenterfield NSW

Leaving Tamworth this morning we followed the Bushrangers Way, passing through country once roamed by the infamous Captain Thunderbolt, Australia’s longest-roaming bushranger. Apparently known as the “gentleman bushranger”, he was said to politely relieve people of their valuables while generally avoiding unnecessary violence. What a guy 😐

We stopped along the way at Armidale for a quick drive‑through tour and pit stop. While we may not have uncovered its hidden gems, we left feeling a little underwhelmed.

Moving on, we passed through Guyra, which at 1,330 m above sea level boldly claims to host Australia’s highest caravan park, before stopping in Glen Innes, where we happily joined the the Grey Nomads for a picnic lunch in the sunshine at Anzac Park.

By mid‑afternoon we rolled into Tenterfield and checked into The Lodge Caravan Park, where we are very obviously the youngest guests by several decades. The ladies’ amenities are a delight - spotless, with historical displays about the local area, softly playing music, a dressing table with scented candle and complimentary make‑up wipes, a hairdryer and even bath mats - not to mention lovely old ladies’ chatter 😊

A walk down the main street of town delivered some valuable dinner intel from a local shopkeeper who, after seeing my crew in train, generously shared her tips on where to find the best “quantity meal” for the most bargain price. Exactly the kind of local knowledge we appreciate. Bowling Club Chinese it is!

And of course, we couldn’t leave without finding the legendary Tenterfield Saddler, immortalised in song by Peter Allen as a tribute to his past and his grandfather, George Woolnough. It’s a genuine living piece of Aussie history, though sadly not open today.Read more