Things To Do
in Scone
Scone is a small town located in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia. It is known for its horse breeding and racing industry, with several prominent stud farms in the area. Scone is surrounded by picturesque countryside, including rolling hills and farmlands.
The town also offers a charming main street with cafes, shops, and historic buildings.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Then, head out for a morning hike to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding hills.
Visit the Scone Heritage Walk to immerse yourself in the town's history. You can take a leisurely stroll and snap some photos of the heritage buildings.
Dine at a charming restaurant that offers Australian cuisine. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere as you reflect on your day's adventures.
After breakfast, drive to Mount Dumaresq for breathtaking views of the landscape. The cool morning air makes it perfect for walking around the lookout.
Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the picturesque spots in the area. Spend some time exploring nearby walking trails.
Return to Scone and relax at a local bar with live music. Savor a cold drink while enjoying the vibrant local scene.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including nearby parks and mountains.
- Friendly community vibe with a small-town feel.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, with several local festivals.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.
- Good local schools and services for families.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Potential lack of amenities and entertainment options.
- Isolated location may require long travel for major city access.
- Variable climate which may not suit everyone's preference.
- Public transport options may be limited.
Best Activities in Scone
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic countryside and surrounding areas of Scone on a bike. There are various trails and paths suitable for different skill levels.
Scone is known as the 'Horse Capital of Australia.' Enjoy horse riding through beautiful trails and experience local equestrian events.
Visit nearby rivers and lakes for a relaxing fishing experience. Popular spots include the Hunter River and various local dams.
Enjoy a day out in one of Scone's many parks or natural reserves. Bring a picnic and relax surrounded by nature.
Explore the numerous walking trails in the area, such as the Scone Nature Reserve or the nearby Barrington Tops National Park.
Discover the local flora and fauna by going on a wildlife spotting adventure in the parks and reserves around Scone.
Set up camp in designated camping areas near Scone. Enjoy stargazing and the sounds of nature.
Visit local wineries in the Hunter Valley region, just a short drive from Scone, for wine tasting tours and outdoor vineyard experiences.
Tours
Uncover the best of Scone with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Scone
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding Hunter Valley landscape, perfect for sunrise and sunset photography.
A family-friendly park featuring beautiful gardens and walking paths, ideal for capturing vibrant nature shots and portraits.
A hidden gem that provides breathtaking views over Scone and the surrounding valleys, making it an excellent spot for landscape photography.
This street features charming historical buildings and unique architecture, perfect for capturing classic Australian rural town vibes.
A cultural hub showcasing local art and history, offering striking photo opportunities both inside and outside the venue.
A picturesque park with a playground and picnic areas, great for candid family shots and nature photography.
The river offers stunning reflections and serene landscapes, best photographed during golden hour.
Food in Scone
Scone Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pastry filled with tender local beef, onions, and a rich gravy, representing a classic Australian comfort food. Can be found at the Scone Bakery.
Must-Try!
A succulent barramundi fillet garnished with native bush tomato, offering a taste of Australian bush tucker. Available at the Horse & Jockey Hotel.
A luscious meringue dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits, with locally sourced macadamia nuts adding a delightful crunch. Served at the Scone RSL Club.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Scone better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Scone Farmers' Market to sample and purchase a variety of fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and homemade delicacies, offering an authentic taste of the region.
Experience the vibrant street food scene in Scone on Friday nights, where a range of food trucks gather to offer a diverse selection of international and local cuisines, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere in the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Scone, as in much of Australia, a friendly smile and a casual 'G'day' is a common way to greet others. It's important to be warm and approachable, as Australians generally value informality.
Be mindful of local Indigenous cultures and histories. Acknowledging the traditional owners of the land, such as the Gamilaroi people, shows respect for their heritage and contributions to the community.
In Scone, the dress code is typically casual and relaxed. However, when attending events or gatherings, it's respectful to dress appropriately for the occasion without being overly formal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Scone with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Scone
Ensure a smooth experience
In Scone, Australia, as in many parts of Australia, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected. Service charges are often included in the price of meals and services. However, patrons may choose to leave a small gratuity for exceptional service, typically rounding up the bill or leaving loose change, but this is entirely at the customer's discretion.
Payment practices in Scone align with those throughout Australia, where various payment methods are accepted. Cash is still used, but electronic payments via credit or debit cards, as well as mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay, are popular and widely accepted at most establishments. Many businesses also offer contactless payment options for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Scone.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Scone as the flowers are in bloom and the weather is mild. Expect comfortable temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), perfect for outdoor activities like horse riding and exploring the local countryside.
Summer in Scone can be warm to hot, with temperatures often reaching above 30°C (86°F). This season is ideal for enjoying outdoor pursuits and events, but be prepared for occasional heatwaves. The area is lush and green, making it a picturesque time to visit.
Autumn is an excellent time to visit Scone, with cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. Daily highs range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The local wineries and farms are bustling during harvest, offering a taste of fresh produce and wine tours.
Winter in Scone is cool, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 15°C (36°F to 59°F). While it's not the peak tourist season, the calm and quiet atmosphere can be refreshing. It’s also a great time for cozy indoor activities and exploring local cultural attractions.
Scone at Night
Hiking in Scone
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful region offering various walking trails, including scenic views of the valley and opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna.
This area features stunning limestone formations and offers hiking trails near the caves, providing an interesting geological exploration.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with diverse ecosystems, offering numerous hiking tracks that range from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Offers peaceful walking trails along the river and through bushland, ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a quiet hike.
Although a bit further away, this park features Australia's highest peak, with well-maintained trails perfect for hiking and stunning views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Scone through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Scone by plane.
The nearest major international airport, located approximately 115 km east of Scone. It offers domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 250 km southeast of Scone, Sydney Airport is the busiest and largest airport in Australia, providing extensive international and domestic connections.
Situated approximately 450 km north of Scone, Brisbane Airport serves as a key international gateway, connecting to numerous international destinations.
Located about 220 km northeast of Scone, Coffs Harbour offers regional flights and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Scone are Australian-born citizens.
A significant demographic of residents have English ancestry or were born in England.
This group includes individuals of Irish descent, contributing to the cultural fabric of Scone.
Scottish ancestry is also represented among the population.
There is a notable community of Italian descent in Scone.
This includes residents from various other European countries.
A presence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the area.
A smaller demographic consisting of individuals from various Asian backgrounds.
The Soul of Scone
Discover the essence of Scone through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in Scone, particularly among the youth and adults, with local clubs and competitions.
A traditional sport in Scone, played during the summer months with several local teams competing in regional leagues.
A widely played sport among women and girls in Scone, with various teams participating in local competitions.
A growing sport in Scone, with local clubs fostering community participation at various levels.
Scone is known for its equestrian culture, hosting several horse races throughout the year, making it a significant event for the community.
Running, jumping, and throwing events are popular among schools and local athletic clubs, encouraging youth participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Scone.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries in Scone offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, with fresh salads, plant-based burgers, and vegan-friendly desserts being readily available.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a range of gluten-free dishes at restaurants and cafes in Scone, including gluten-free pastas, breads, and desserts to accommodate their dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Scone with these cultural adventures.
