Visit Tamworth - Tamworth is Australia’s Country Music Capital and the centre of the universe in January for the Tamworth Country Music Festival attracting over 50,000 visitors from all over the world; about 800 artists make up 2500 acts in 120 different venues.
Tamworth is a vibrant, friendly and fuss free city. It is the hub of a regional council of about 55,000 people who live in the city or in the towns of Barraba, Manilla Bendemeer or Nundle. The Tamworth Regional area is about three times the size of Sydney basin or about the same as Lake Eyre.
Tamworth is a beautiful, vibrant and prosperous regional city of approximately 500km north of Sydney and 600km south of Brisbane; the city covers 184 sq km and is home to nearly 36,000 people. Tamworth is the "capital city" of the New England North West region of NSW, serving around 178,000 people. The retail industry is one of the larger employers and the range of products and services available compares more than favorably with cities. There is so much fresh produce supplied by local growers, from market gardeners and hydroponic farms to specialty foods based on fish, berries, wine, and olives - you name it - we grow it!

Tamworth is the "capital city" for the New England North West, serving around 178,000 residents. The retail industry is one of our larger employers and the range of products and services available compares more than favorably with bigger cities. You can choose from a classic tree-lined bourse in the Central Business District where major national chains and franchises stand side by side with smaller retailers and alfresco restaurants and cafes. Or you can shop til you drop at Tamworth Shoppingworld, one of the largest, modern shopping centres in regional New South Wales. You will find the latest fashion from around the world or manufactured and marketed locally, as well as those classically-country products which reflect a rural lifestyle. You can even buy goods direct from local factories!

The BIG difference in shopping in Tamworth is that is a relaxing experience. There is no car park rage here and there is a sense of space and friendliness that you won't find in a major metropolitan city. Our sidewalks can be packed with people (especially in January!!), yet you will not feel intimidated by the crowd.

Tamworth’s finest offering, and one that most would have great enjoyment in discovering, is the fantastic quality of food and wine the city and its surrounding regions produce. Tamworth offers food lovers an incredible variety from five-star, award winning fine dining restaurants to casual outdoor cafes and country style eateries.

Situated in the heart of NSW, Tamworth was built on the wealth of agriculture and in recent years has had to overcome difficulties from the severe drought that has plagued most regional areas in Australia. Local produce is rife amongst the 30-odd eateries in the city alone and widely available in the handful of boutique wineries scattered throughout the area.

A favourite amongst locals and visitors is the SSS BBQ Barns. Unlike most chain-style steakhouses, the SSS BBQ Barns has an authentic rustic and homely feel that surrounds you from the minute you walk through the door. Grab a pot of peanuts and popcorn and head to the memorabilia-plastered bar to try some locally brewed beer and wine as barbeque flavours waft through from the restaurant next door. The restaurant also serves a variety of locally produced meats including buffalo, but the tender baby-back ribs are suitably renowned for being its most popular dish.

For a different experience, visitors should make a reservation at the award-winning Monty’s restaurant at the Powerhouse Hotel. The six course degustation meal prepared by three star Michelin chef Ben Davies is simply to die for and with accompanying locally produced wines; each course is a feast for the senses.

Most would not think of Tamworth as a place for wine, but award winning vineyards are scattered throughout the region and are short drive from the city centre. For those who enjoy good wine, good cheeses and good views, take a trip out to the Banalasta Vineyard in Bendemeer to sample some of Tamworth’s finest. The high altitude vineyard is joined with a eucalyptus and lavender plantation adding an exotic twist to visitors’ experiences with the high quality products sold at the adjoining visitor centre.

Live Music

The Tamworth Region regularly showcases the up-n-coming singers and bands from across NSW. With more than 60 entertainment venues in Tamworth, you can be guaranteed quality live music every weekend.