Bustling with life, yet surrounded by Australian heritage.
The NSW State Heritage listed town of Braidwood offers the ultimate country getaway complete with stories of bushrangers, gold seekers and more, as well as beautiful sun-dappled walks, handcrafted treasures and unforgettable stays, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Southern Tablelands.
Its streets are lined with colonial buildings brimming with antiques, speciality shops, cosy cafes and unique restaurants. If your idea of bliss in wandering through enchanting country villages, then a visit to Braidwood and the surrounding villages is a must-do.
Originally, the Braidwood area was occupied by the Yuin Nation for tens of thousands of years. European explorers first arrived in 1822, settling throughout the 1820s near the headwaters of the Shoalhaven River. In the early 1800s, the town grew little by little until the gold rushes of the 1850s. During this era, Braidwood was booming as the primary town in the district. However, as the gold ran out, so did migration.
A bustling business centre developed near Monkittee Creek in the 1940s, housing notable buildings such as the Old Post Office, Braidwood Museum, Braidwood Hotel and the Court House to this day. Over time, this business centre started moving south with hotels, such as the Albion and the Criterion, built in the latter half of the 19th century in response to the town’s growing needs during the gold rush era.
Nestled between Canberra and the unspoiled southern NSW coastline, Braidwood can easily be reached by car or coach. Located less than an hour’s drive from Batemans Bay, Braidwood also serves as the ideal base for exploring the wonders of the NSW South Coast.
Get on the road along the Kings Highway and discover the hidden gems of the region at every turn. Visit the surrounding national parks like Monga or Deua National Park, or take on the self-guided history trail in town to discover the heritage-listed town’s journey to present day.
Indulge your senses at the vibrant local farmers markets brimming with gourmet produce and artisanal crafts, and savour the town’s culinary delights, from farm-fresh local produce to the exotic flavours of Javanese and Nepali cuisines.
Wondering where to stay after a day of exploration? There are options to suit various budgets, including camping and caravanning, B&Bs, classic pubs, motels, heritage guesthouses and farm stays.
Plan your weekend escape or holiday to Braidwood with the help of these pages: