Pitt Town is an incredibly historic and culturally significant town along the Hawkesbury River on the traditional land of the Dharug people. The area is known as Bardo Narang (meaning “little water”) by the Indigenous People because of the freshwater creek connecting Pitt Town lagoon to the Hawkesbury River. Just like much of this fertile region, Pitt Town makes for a very scenic and relaxing Western Sydney day trip. Visit and you’ll be surprised at the cafes to explore, trails to trek, and history to learn.
Head into Pitt Town along Pitt Town Road. Looking out, you can see the Blue Mountains to your west as you drive across the beautiful plains.
Soon, you’ll find yourself in the town centre of Pitt Town on Bathurst Street. This spot has a country town feel to it, with wide streets lined with beautiful trees, and the buzz of locals going about their business.
Homeground Café is a favourite spot among locals for a Will & Co coffee and meal. We love their sleek and welcoming interior design as well as the sunlit outdoor dining area. With a selection of cakes and treats made fresh by their chef, you’ll be spoilt for choice! We tried their house-made tiramisu and couldn’t get enough! This is a café where you feel right at home in, you can never overstay your welcome here.
Next, take a walk around this little area. There are many beautiful gardens and lovely homes to admire along Bathurst Street. You’ll start to notice just how old and historic Pitt Town is when you take a closer look at some of the buildings.
Bird in the Hand Inn is just further down on Bathurst Street, and is one of Australia’s oldest pubs, having been built in the 1840s. The pub is known for its classic old pub atmosphere and faithful pub classics. A visit to Bird in the Hand Inn [DB1] is a remarkable step back in time and one of the simple pleasures.
Further down, you’ll find two National Estate-listed sandstone churches opposite each other. The first is the 1858-built St James Anglican Church which was designed by Edmund Blackett who was best known for designing the University of Sydney and St Andrew’s Cathedral in the CBD. The second is the 1862-built Scots Presbyterian Church which is also in the Gothic Revival Style.
Once you’ve wandered and explored the township, jump back in the car and it’s time for an adventure. Head to the Scheyville National Park to discover some surprising history. Designated as a public common in 1804, the area has taken on many uses throughout the years. In the 1890s, it was a socialist labour camp for unemployed men to live and work.
Between 1911 and 1929, the site was used as an agricultural training facility for thousands of young British Migrants who arrived in New South Wales under the Dreadnought scheme.
During World War II, the site was used by the Searchlight Company for anti-aircraft war administration, it was also used as a parachute training facility as well as an anti-aircraft. After the war, with the influx of European migrants to Australia, the facilities at Scheyville were repurposed into a Migrant Holding Centre.
The quadrangle buildings are still standing today and are excellent for exploring Australia’s World War history. You’ll find information signs around the site highlighting the fascinating significance of Scheyville throughout the centuries.
Finally, after an informative visit to this undiscovered Western Sydney National Park, you’ll be ready for an afternoon beverage or meal, or perhaps even a round of golf! The beautiful and well-kept Lynwood Golf & Country Club is a very popular place for a 9- or 18-hole game or a swing at the driving range. Importantly, it’s also a great spot for a refreshing drink, with the Main Bar and Country Kitchen. Find yourself a spot overlooking the greenery and enjoy a spectacular sunset.
With so much history and culture, a trip to Pitt Town is full of surprises. Stunning in any season of the year, you can see just why the locals love their home here in the Hawkesbury.