Looking for a WOW weekend with the kids, only two hours’ drive from Sydney?
A stone’s throw from Newcastle, the Hunter Valley offers much more than wineries and romantic escapes. It’s a must-do destination that attracts big artists, has a variety of accommodation, and plenty of fun for the whole family.
Concerts are a great excuse to visit
I hadn’t been to the Hunter Valley in years, but in the last 12 months I’ve been three times – each time tempted by a great event. These days, it’s not just our major cities that play host to big-name performers. Now regional destinations in many states are welcoming fantastic artists, from international acts like Bruce Springsteen, Leonard Cohen, and Cyndi Lauper, to beloved local bands like Hunters and Collectors, and Midnight Oil (now sold out!).
I recently took my kids to Hope Estate for a concert with a great line-up of Aussie artists, including Hoodoo Gurus and You Am I. Before that, I took them to Bimbadgen Estate for a concert with Spiderbait and Something For Kate. Bimbadgen has been hosting outdoor concerts for years, and often lets kids in for free when they come with a paying adult. What a fab opportunity for mum and dad to relive their youth and share some of their favourite bands with the kids, all in a gorgeous family-friendly setting.
Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and buy your wines at the venue, or take your pick from the many delicious on-site food options. Because Bimbadgen and Hope Estate are outdoor spaces with events that typically start in the early afternoon, there’s always somewhere for the kids to run around and plenty going on to keep them entertained. I loved seeing kids dancing with their parents to great music!
Make a weekend of it
Although your concert might be the main event, it’s easy to make a weekend of it in the Hunter Valley. Before visiting a couple of wineries (when in the Hunter!), spend a relaxing morning at And the Winner is Oscars Café in the village, just next to the Hunter Valley Gardens. If the weather is good, sit outside – there’s a playground next door, so you can watch your kids play while you enjoy a flat white. Explore the old-world charm of the Shopping Village, wander through the Hunter Valley Gardens (heads up: there’s an entry fee) or play a round of minigolf– all three are within walking distance. Every Sunday, the course puts up a jumping castle – a real winner for the kids.
Family-friendly accommodation
The Hunter Valley has lots of family-friendly accommodation options. For easy access and plenty of kid-pleasing amenities like pools, bikes for hire, and space to run around (not to mention fantastic food options), Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, and Mercure Resort Hunter Valley Gardens are great picks, and all just a few minutes’ drive from both concert venues. I also recently stayed at the Wine Country Motor Inn in Cessnock and was very pleasantly surprised. Comfy, stylish, and modern – much more plush than its price tag lets on. A real bargain!
More tips for enjoying a Hunter Valley concert with the kids:
- Book your tickets as early as possible and research your accommodation at the same time. While I didn’t have any trouble booking last-minute, you’re going to get a better deal if you book in advance.
- Bring a blanket, and if you’re going to Bimbadgen save some money by packing your own picnic and snacks (Hope Estate does not currently allow outside food, although we were able to bring snacks for the kids). Neither venue permits outside beverages, so you’ll have to buy water and alcohol at the event.
- Bimbadgen and Hope Estate both have plenty of parking, but if you plan on having a couple of wines, a round trip on a coach is only $20-$25 per person. Check out Rover Coaches, who pick up and drop off at many places around the Hunter Valley
- Don’t forget to pack headphones for the little ones! Concerts can be quite loud for small ears.
- Remember to pack sunscreen and a hat, as even an arvo start could mean a few hours out in the sun. You’ll also need something warm for when the sun goes down.