Admire quaint station scenes and historic train carriages during a visit to Tenterfield Railway Museum. Lovingly managed by local volunteers, the museum showcases well-preserved artifacts framed by Victorian Gothic architecture. Throughout the year, enjoy markets and themed events where you can buy local arts and crafts.
Opened in 1886, Tenterfield Station was the last depot built on the Brisbane to Sydney line, linking the two cities by rail. Across the years, it was a thoroughfare for all types of trains until services ended in 1989. The 19th-century railway precinct is mostly intact. Though similar stations were common at the time, this is a rare surviving example. Sit outside on a colorful bench and picture yourself waiting for a train as passengers did more than a century ago.
Take a guided tour to discover the exhibits across various rooms. Passionate volunteers are happy to teach visitors about the different eras of the railway, along with pointing out the significance of the collections. You’ll see walls lined with historic tools and old photos to help you visualize history.
Step inside old-world carriages and watch model trains zip around the tracks. Stroll around outside to see tractors, train cars and other railway equipment. Take photos of the quaint buildings. The railway tracks themselves are surrounded by countryside views and lush trees.
If you can’t get enough of the past, Tenterfield offers additional historical attractions. Visit a former saddlery at the Tenterfield Saddler Museum to see leather goods and learn about the story of singer Peter Allen’s song of the same name. At the Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts, discover Federation history. One of the most popular town attractions is the very large Tenterfield Cork Tree, which was transported to Australia from England in a jam jar in 1861.
Tenterfield Railway Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday and every day during New South Wales school holidays, year-round. It’s located west of the center of town and charges a fee to enter. Use the free parking available near the grounds. Check the Facebook page to learn about markets and other events.
