A guide to Goulburn, by a Goulburnian
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Drive an hour down the Federal Highway you’ll find yourself in the humble town of Goulburn.
Known for its historical buildings and rose gardens, G-Town (as it’s known by the locals, AKA Goulburnians) has many drawcards. And as a Goulburn girlie, I feel it is my responsibility to let the world know Australia’s first inland city is more than the Big Merino.
Here’s your guide to Goulburn by a local. Thank me later.
Check out the historical architecture
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There are so many stunning heritage-listed buildings in Goulburn. Saint Saviour’s Cathedral and Saint Peter and Paul’s Old Cathedral on Bourke Street are often filled with tourists passing through, taking photos of the stained glass windows and stone frames. The Court House on Montague Street is a must-see, with its Victorian Italianate Style from 1878. And if you love 19th-century homes, head further into town to Cowper and Beppo Street.
Take the kids to the Adventure Playground at Victoria Park
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Parents know road trips are planned around playgrounds, not pit stops, so why not take a detour off the highway to Victoria Park? There’s a climbing obstacle course with an eight-metre tower, slides, a double flying fox, an inclusive playground and merry-go-round that offers disabled access, sensory play elements and a maze. If you’ve got a tween or teen who loves to skateboard, the local skatepark is also within walking distance.
Have a picnic at Belmore Park
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Located in the heart of town, Belmore Park is popular with residents and visitors. Along with several beautiful monuments (including a rotunda, a fountain, and a glass house) there’s a playground to keep the kids occupied, picnic tables, and public toilets. A bunch of local cafés are within walking distance, parking is a breeze, the bonus of the Visitor’s Information Centre located just across the road!
Get your next good read at The Argyle Emporium
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Feed your inner bookworm with this beautiful bookshop, housed in the historic surrounds of Goulburn’s old police station. After walking past the pillars by the front door, you’ll come face to face with piles of books, and vinyl records. When I was 18 years old, a boy took me on a date to this book shop, knowing my appreciation for all things literature. Let’s just say, I left impressed.
260 Sloane Street, Goulburn
Pamper yourself at Goulburn Day Spa
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Treat yourself to a facial, massage, a pedicure or manicure at one of Goulburn’s longest running Day Spas. For over 15 years Jenna and her team have been providing a place of relaxation for locals, book in to rejuvenate your skin, and you mood before you head back out on the road.
88 Bourke Street, Goulburn | goulburndayspa.com
Walk or jog along Wollondilly River Walkway
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Get out and stretch your legs after an hour on the road to stroll along the Wollondilly River. Beginning at Marsden Weir, the pathway extends over four kilometres to the Tarlo Street Bridge. The perfect spot to walk your furry-legged friend, or sit by the river and reconnect with nature.
Get your green fix at Gehl’s Garden Centre
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Family owned and operated for 25 years, Gehl Garden Centre are expert in all things green, both inside and outside your home. Co-owner Sally Gehl stocks an impressive array of accessories sure to suit any style and taste. If you get hungry after investing in another house plant, check out Valerie’s Sunroom next door, which is known for its bacon and eggs, and yellow curry chicken burger.
70 Fitzroy Street, Goulburn | .gehlgardencentre.com
Rocky Hill War Memorial lookout
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Need a better view of the city? Rocky Hill War Memorial provides magnificent views across the city. Opened in 1925, the memorial is a lasting tribute to the men and women of Goulburn who served during World War One.
256 Memorial Road, Goulburn
Get your shopping fix at Something Special
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This unique store has something for everyone and the regularly changing product range makes every visit a wonderful experience. From silver handmade jewellery, women’s fashion, handbags, body products to homewares and room fragrances, you’ll be sure to walk away with something.
256 Auburn Street, Goulburn | @somethingspecial_goulburn
Refuel at Roses Café
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Writing this article as a member of the Rose family, I felt torn as to whether to include my own family’s café in our recommendations, but after ample encouragement from our HC team, I have to admit I think my Mum’s (Carole) cooking is pretty incredible. Her deli bar cabinet is chock-a-block with handmade pies, quiches, cakes, muffins, and more!
Carole’s homemade lasagna is legendary, and served to regulars at all hours of the workday. If you’re in need of a comforting country feed, I promise a refuel at Roses won’t disappoint.
57 Verner Street, Goulburn | therosescafe.com.au
Take a photo in front of the Big Merino
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Last, but certainly not least, you can’t visit Goulburn without getting a good view of the Big Merino in all its glory. When pulling off the highway there are always tourists out the front taking photos. It’s a right of passage on a road trip, and a must-do.
