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)

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

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