Why You Need To Visit The Picture-Perfect Mayfield Garden

A verdant handkerchief of manicured grounds laid out in the NSW Central Tablelands, Mayfield Garden is an exquisite estate of horticultural mastery open to all garden lovers.

Singular in its vision and scale, the privately owned Mayfield Garden in Oberon, is a highlight on any horticulturalist’s hit list. Rambling across 65 hectares, the cool-climate garden is an astonishing example of how a landscape can be tamed and shaped to take new, artful forms.

Once a dry pasture for sheep, this cascade of themed gardenscapes draws multitudes of visitors each year who come to revel in the tranquil scenery and draw inspiration for their own spaces.

Of course, you needn’t be a plant enthusiast to enjoy this curated estate, anyone will enjoy the beauty of the generations-long project and respect the joy it brings. Here’s everything you need to know to plan a visit to the garden.

a drone shot of the Mayfield Garden, Oberon — Admire this curated garden estate in Oberon. (Image: Destination NSW)

The backstory of Mayfield Garden

It’s hard to believe that the 65 hectares of lush, sculptured and manicured lawns that make up Mayfield Garden were little more than a barren, rambling sheep farm when first acquired by the Hawkins family in 1984.

potted plants beside the Mayfield Garden signage — Revel in the tranquil scenery at Mayfield Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Initially, the family never intended to create a sprawling horticulturalist’s nirvana of international note here – they simply set out to build a family retreat. But ‘simple’ evidently wasn’t in patriarch, Garrick Hawkins, wheelhouse. Instead, the word spectacular springs to mind.

sculptured and manicured lawns in Mayfield Garden — Sculptured and manicured lawns are spread across Mayfield Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Beginning with the building of the main lake in 1987, followed by the Chinese pagoda eight years later, then steadily expanding with one beautifully executed landscape feature after another, it became apparent that Mayfield was something to share with the world.

an aerial view of the sculptured gardens in Mayfield — The sculptured gardens are stunning from above. (Image: Destination NSW)

In 2008, the gardens were opened to the public for a charitable event, and once the cat was out of the bag, it was no longer possible to contain it. Eventually, the ever-expanding Mayfield Garden was opened every day of the year (bar two) for people to bask in the splendour of 15 hectares of European-influenced showpiece gardens.

a couple walking along the Chinese Pagoda, Mayfield Garden — The Chinese Pagoda is just one of the garden features. (Image: Destination NSW)

Best things to do at Mayfield Garden

Even if you’re not an avid viewer of Gardening Australia, you’re going to find a profound appreciation for the work and dedication these gardens require. From horticulture and hospitality to marketing and masonry, the estate employs around 50 people to keep the Mayfield in awe-inspiring condition. Keep that in mind as you tour the estate, because you’ll no doubt find yourself exclaiming at the detail of the stonework or the meticulously trimmed hedges.

scenic views across Mayfield Garden, Oberon — The 65-hectare private garden is well-preserved. (Image: Destination NSW)

The gardens are divided into two separate parts. First is the public access to Mayfield Garden, open 363 days a year and rambling across 15 hectares. The second is the 50-hectare Hawkins’ Family Estate, which is only open during the four seasonal festivals each year, each running for around three to four weeks.

a couple rowing a boat during the Spring Festival in Mayfield Garden — Paddle your way around the lake for a charming romantic date. (Image: Destination NSW)

Begin a day at Mayfield Garden with a coffee in the restaurant, from there a leisurely pace will ensure you take in everything, but be sure you don’t miss the Bluestone Bridge, water garden and the grotto – all non-negotiable. To really soak up the magnitude of the achievement here, head to the Sandstone Gallery for the complete Hawkins Family and Mayfield Garden backstory. The Iron and Stone Arbour and Wisteria Walk are ripe for selfie-snapping and the Valley of the Five Ponds is perfect for a tranquil rest.

the red bridge in Mayfield Garden, Oberon — You’ll find a little red bridge over a pond. (Image: Destination NSW)

If your visit coincides with a garden festival that unlocks access to the Hawkins’ Private Family Garden, you’ll need to direct yourself to Australia’s largest private box hedge maze. The croquet court and rose garden will have you feeling like you’ve tripped into a Jane Austen dimension, and the Chinese pagoda and Mayfield Lake make for a romantic spot to linger. The newest feature of the garden and the latest must-see is the Herbaceous Border designed by celebrated garden designer Paul Bangay.

a couple walking along the colourful blooms in Mayfield Garden — Stroll around the colourful blooms in Mayfield Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Mayfield Garden restaurant

It makes good sense to make proper use of produce from the surrounding regions, thus most dishes at the onsite restaurant are beautifully fresh, seasonally inspired and made with local harvests. Garden-goers can pre-load with breakfast calories for a day roaming the property, pause their tour of the grounds for lunch, or finish the day with a sweet treat.

a close-up shot of a dish at Mayfield Garden's Cafe — The garden meals are made with local harvests. (Image: Destination NSW)

Depending on the season, you might be tucking into a warm winter salad, house-made granola or a Rueben sandwich. But with idyllic spots ripe for unfurling a rug under a verdant canopy, you could bypass dining in and, instead, order a picnic box from the restaurant. You can even add a bottle of wine or Champagne if things are headed in a celebratory direction.

a close-up shot of a dish at Mayfield Garden's Cafe, Oberon — Pop by the Mayfield Garden’s Cafe for healthy greens. (Image: Destination NSW)

The best time to visit Mayfield Garden

A cool-climate garden ensures each season delivers a sensationally different experience, so given the garden is open most days of the year (it’s only closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day), when you go depends largely on your preference for foliage and blooms.

waterlilies in the pond of Mayfield Garden — Marvel at the waterlilies in the pond. (Image: Destination NSW)

In summer, it’s a lovely spot for a picnic under a shady tree and the waterlilies are flowering in the ponds; spring brings a chorus of colourful blooms and tender new leaves; autumn is cool and crisp with deciduous trees providing sunset-coloured canopies; and come winter, the garden is iced in frost and bareboned, but still lovely in its quietude.

However, if you’re keen to free-range through 50 hectares of the Hawkins’ Family Private Garden, you’ll need to coincide your visit with one of the four seasonal festivals.

the entrance decorated with flowers at Mayfield Garden, Oberon — Every corner is festooned with flowers. (Image: Destination NSW)

Tickets and entry fees

Keen garden lovers can sprig for an annual membership that includes two-hour garden access, every day for a year (should you wish), for only $40. Otherwise, casual visits that take in 15 hectares of the garden cost $15.

the lush garden setting in Mayfield, Oberon — A visit to the Mayfield Garden is a must for garden lovers. (Image: Destination NSW)

Come the seasonal festivals, for the same price, entry includes access to the 50-hectare Hawkins’ Family Private Garden and extends to five-hour sessions.

Got a gang of flower fanatics? Group tours also cost $15 per person, but come with access to the entire 65 hectares over four hours.

a lush and flower-filled landscape in Mayfield Garden, Oberon — Enjoy a two-hour access to the flower-filled garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Getting to Mayfield Garden

You’ll find Mayfield Garden just 10 minutes out of town from beautiful Oberon, which is a relatively easy stretch from Sydney, accessed in under three hours along the Great Western Highway.

From Katoomba, it’s a 75-minute drive and it’s 40 minutes from Bathurst. Both Mudgee (north) and Cowra (south west) are two hours’ drive away, while Lithgow is less than an hour away.

driving along the scenic grounds of Mayfield Garden, Oberon — Mayfield Garden is just a short drive away. (Image: Destination NSW)

Mayfield Garden accommodation

There’s no permanent accommodation at Mayfield Garden, however, the onsite glampsite is open a few times a year to coincide with seasonal festivals in spring, summer and autumn. Glamping packages include garden access, luxe tent interiors, a pamper pack and a three-course dinner for two. You can also opt-in for breakfast delivered to your tent, which is pitched by the Obelisk Pond. One night costs $475.

a couple enjoying their coffee outside the glamping tent at Mayfield Garden, Oberon — Settle into a glamping tent and enjoy a three-course dinner for two. (Image: Destination NSW)

Should you miss out on a garden-side glamp, your next closest option for consecutive days roaming Mayfield is to book into accommodation at Oberon. From cosy Beaconsfield Cottage or country chic Little Brundah to the more rustic Abercrombie Caves Campground or the luxe Lake Oberon Estate , there’s something to suit every budding horticulturalist’s budget.

a building surrounded by manicured gardens in Mayfield — Stay amidst well-landscaped gardens in Mayfield. (Image: Destination NSW)

Aussies might think they know what Port Stephens is all about – but it’s time to take another look.

You might’ve driven through this NSW coast town. Maybe even stopped for fish and chips or a quick dip. But spend a long weekend in the new Port Stephens , and you’ll seriously regret not doing it sooner. We’re talking treks across beaches, reef dives and up-close time with rescued koalas.

All in all? It only takes a day before you see Port Stephens in a whole new light, and not much longer until it’s locked in as your favourite family destination.

1. Stockton Sand Dunes

Port Stephens incredible Stockton Sand Dunes are the largest moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere. They shift like an endless magic trick across the Worimi Conservation Lands , a 4200-hectare coastal co-managed by the Traditional Owners.

Tear over them in a 4WD. Rev through valleys soft as melting ice cream on a quad. Carve down 30-metre slopes on a sandboard. However you choose to cross them, you’re guaranteed a seriously wild ride.

Four rugged 4WDs kick up trails of golden dust as they charge across the sweeping desert landscape. — Chase thrills across shifting sands. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Scale Tomaree Head Summit Walk

A short climb through bushland opens up to the coastal drama of Tomaree Head . Spot Zenith, Wreck and Box Beaches. See the Fingal Island lighthouse and offshore rookeries where Australia’s rarest seabird, the Gould’s petrel, nests.

History buffs can’t miss the WWII gun emplacements. And if you’re hiking between May and November, bring binoculars. Travelling whales might just be breaching below.

Friends enjoying a scenic walk along the Tomaree Head Summit Walk in Tomaree National Park, Port Stephens. — Climb Tomaree Head for jaw-dropping coastal views. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Watch out for whales

You’ve seen the spouts of migrating humpbacks and southern right whales from shore. Set sail from Nelson Bay to see them up close. Cruise straight into the action, with tail-slaps, barrel rolls and all.

And they’ve got competition from the local show-offs. Port Stephens bottlenose dolphins leap and play. Some tours even spot pudgy fur seals, spending lazy days soaking up the sun on Cabbage Tree Island.

A whale’s tail on the sea’s surface. — Watch for ocean tails. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary

Pop into the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary to learn about the rescued koalas who climb, nap, snack and heal in this natural patch of bushland. Wander the immersive Sanctuary Story Walk to discover more about their habits, then head to the SKYwalk – a treetop platform constructed for spotting these eucalyptus-loving locals. Peek into the hospital’s viewing window, where sick or injured koalas may be resting in their recovery enclosures.

Not enough time around these adorable marsupials? Stay overnight in silk-lined glamping tents.

Koala sleeping in a tree at Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, One Mile — See koalas in their natural habitat. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Diving Port Stephens

Port Stephens has some of NSW’s best dive spots. At Fly Point, float through sponge gardens and coral castles thick with nudibranchs (AKA sea slugs). Halifax Park has blue gropers and crimson-banded wrasse, while Shoal Bay’s seagrass meadows hide pipefish, cuttlefish and octopus.

Accessible only by boat, Broughton Island is home to a vast array of marine (and bird) life. Snorkel with blue devilfish and stingrays at sites like The Looking Glass and North Rock. More experienced divers can head out with one of the many PADI-certified operators.

At nearby Cabbage Tree Island, expect to see shaggy-faced wobbegongs cruising along.

A couple suited up and ready to dive into adventure. — Suit up and dive into Port Stephens’ vibrant marine life. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters

Not quite ready to dive in? Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters is the perfect way to spot local marine life without getting too deep. But there’s no obnoxious glass tank tapping here. Instead, this interactive aquarium allows guests to wade into natural-style lagoons that mimic the real thing.

Gently pat Port Jackson and bamboo sharks, hand-feed rays, and feel their sandpapery skin with your fingertips. It is all under expert guidance. If you want to go deeper, pop on a wetsuit and swim alongside tawny nurse sharks, white-tipped reef sharks and zebra sharks in the lagoon.

Family enjoying an animal feeding experience at Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters, Anna Bay. — Meet the ocean’s friendliest faces at Irukandji. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Fish the estuaries

Fishing fanatics will fall for Port Stephens hook, line and sinker. Here, one of the largest estuary systems in the whole state sees tidal rivers and mangrove ecosystems. Waterfronts are thick with oysters, and residential fish that might include anything from bream, whiting and flathead, to blue swimmer crabs, kingfish and longtail tuna.

If you prefer to choose your own adventure and fish offshore, you can hire a boat from one of the marinas and set your own course.

three men fishing on a boat in port stephens — Join a tour or chart your own fishing trip. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Taste new Port Stephens flavours

With plenty of activity to fill your days, refuelling on delectable cuisine becomes equally important. And Port Stephens answers the call.

Pop into Holbert’s Oyster Farm for fresh-farmed Port Stephens rock oysters and Pacific oysters, Australian king and tiger prawns, as well as a variety of tasty sauces to try them with.

Take a group to Atmos for an authentic Greek experience over large shared dishes and Greek-inspired cocktails. Or feast on sea-to-plate, modern Australian dishes at the pet-friendly Restaurant 2317.

A plate of fresh oysters. — Slurp your way through the region’s best oysters. (Image: Destination NSW)

Start planning your Port Stephens getaway at portstephens.org.au .

Here’s why you need to visit the picture-perfect Mayfield Garden