Part of the Central Coast Council area, Gosford sits on the traditional land of the Darkinjung people, one of the largest nations in Australia. Just north of Sydney, modern-day Gosford was first explored in 1788 and settled by Europeans from around 1823. Today it is home to over 75,000 residents and is an easy day trip or getaway from Sydney.
With sweeping water views of Brisbane Waters, deep moorings, and an abundance of natural landscape, it's easy to see why Gosford is having a resurgence and fast becoming a very exciting place to live or visit.
Gosford is easily accessible by train or road. The train line travels right along the waters edge making for a grand arrival at Gosford station. The NorthConnex tunnel makes getting there by car surprisingly fast and easy too, especially from Western Sydney.
As always, we like to start by finding a great little coffee place, and Bouffant is just the thing you need. A charming little pastel pink bakery with several locations in the Central Coast, this one is housed in a grand old building on the corner of Mann Street and Georgiana Terrace. Try their specialty Portuguese Tarts – which are not as you know it – with flavours including Lemon Meringue. Enjoy their barista-made coffee using Stitch beans.
Gosford is a town full of history alongside some great new developments, start your day by walking along Mann Street and take note of the diverse architecture. You will find a great variety of Art Deco, Spanish Mission, Federation, Edwardian and war era buildings alongside some really beautiful new developments.
The influx of new commercial buildings and residential apartments has brought life and vitality to what is a very beautiful coastal town. Take in the water views and check out the public art scattered along the street.
Make your way into the town centre and check out one of the newly refurbished pubs. Like many pubs across Sydney, you’ll find great food, interiors, and a great beverage list.
One of these is the Railway Hotel, a beautiful establishment set within a new development on Mann Street. This is a perfect example of one of the quality venues that are finding a home in Gosford. Grab yourself a cool drink before heading back outside.
Gosford is surrounding by some stunning bushland with escarpments and rocky outcrops among a natural rainforest, known as the Rumbalara Reserve. You can hike straight from the main street up to some stunning views along the Railway to Rainforest Walk.
This walking trail is part of a much bigger series of trails in and around the city centre heading north. The 11-kilometre loop is considered moderate to challenging, so come prepared. You can also choose to do a shorter walk along one of the many other well signposted tracks.
After the walk, you will be incredibly hungry and ready to celebrate your adventure and discovery of this beautiful city with picturesque water views. Make your way back down towards the city centre, and head straight to South End Social. This is a great spot for an alfresco lunch and its licensed too!
Hydrate with some sparkling water and a Seville Orange Spritz. The Salmon Nourish Bowl is a perfect accompaniment, and you can soak in the atmosphere and beautiful interior styling as you dine in style. Maybe even treat yourself to something from their dessert selections. You’ve earnt it!
Gosford is a city full of surprise, energy, and a new youthful vigour. It’s hard to believe a city that is so scenically beautiful has somehow been overlooked by so many for so long.
It is truly a great place to live, work, and play (with easy access to and from Western Sydney) - a daytrip will feel just like a holiday!
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