Situated in the heart of Greater Western Sydney, Penrith boasts a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the early days of European settlement in Australia. This thriving suburb offers a wealth of historic sites that provide a unique insight into its past. In this post, we'll delve into Penrith's history and provide you with a list of must-visit historic places, complete with opening times and booking requirements.
A Brief History of Penrith
Established in 1818 by Governor Lachlan Macquarie, Penrith was named after the town of Penrith in Cumbria, England. The area was originally inhabited by the Mulgoa people and played a crucial role in the early development of the colony of New South Wales. The arrival of the railway in the 1860s accelerated Penrith's growth, transforming it into the bustling suburb it is today.
Historic Sites in Penrith
- Arms of Australia Inn - One of the oldest buildings in Penrith, the Arms of Australia Inn was built in 1826 and served as a resting point for travelers on the Great Western Highway. Today, it operates as a museum managed by the Nepean District Historical Society, showcasing fascinating artifacts and stories from the region's past.
Opening times: Monday and Thursday, 9 am - 2 pm, and the first Sunday of each month, 1 pm - 4 pm.
Booking requirements: No bookings are required for individual visitors, but groups should book in advance by calling (02) 4735 4394 or emailing info@nepeanhistoricalsociety.org.au. - Emu Plains Railway Station - Constructed in 1884, Emu Plains Railway Station is a beautifully preserved example of a late 19th-century railway station. It features a striking Victorian Italianate architectural style and has been listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register.
Opening times: As an operational railway station, it is accessible to the public at all times.
Booking requirements: No bookings are required. - St. Stephen's Anglican Church - Built in 1839, St. Stephen's Anglican Church is one of the oldest churches in the Penrith area. The church is an excellent example of Gothic Revival architecture, with its beautiful stained glass windows, sandstone walls, and intricate woodwork.
Opening times: Open for services and by appointment for visitors.
Booking requirements: Contact the church office at (02) 4721 2124 or email office@penrithanglican.org to arrange a visit. - The Great River Walk - While not a single historic site, The Great River Walk is a picturesque walking trail that runs along the Nepean River and provides access to several important historic sites, including the Penrith Weir and the Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler. The walk offers a beautiful and informative way to explore Penrith's past.
Opening times: Accessible to the public at all times.
Booking requirements: No bookings are required. - Penrith Heritage Drive - A self-guided driving tour that takes you on a journey through the region's history, visiting key historic sites and landmarks. The tour includes stops at the Arms of Australia Inn, St. Stephen's Anglican Church, and the remnants of the old Castlereagh Cemetery, among others.
Opening times: Accessible at all times, but individual sites may have specific opening hours.
Booking requirements: No bookings are required. - Fernhill Estate - Located in the nearby suburb of Mulgoa, Fernhill Estate is a stunning, heritage-listed property that dates back to the 1840s. The estate is set on 383 hectares of picturesque land and features an elegant sandstone homestead, beautifully landscaped gardens, and several outbuildings. Fernhill Estate is a wonderful example of early Australian colonial architecture and provides a unique insight into the lifestyle of the colonial gentry.
Opening times: Fernhill Estate is open for public access on select days throughout the year, such as during the annual Picnic Race Day and other special events. It's best to check the Fernhill Estate Facebook page or contact Penrith City Council for updated information on opening days and times.
Booking requirements: While bookings may not be required for general access during open days, it is advised to check in advance for any specific events or guided tours that may require booking.
