Step inside the Henry Parkes Centre to indulge in the King’s Castle Elvis Exhibit and the Parkes Motor Museum, along with the Henry Parkes Museum and Antique Machinery Collection and the Moat Cottage Replica. Set aside time to admire genuine Elvis artifacts and vehicles representing a range of motoring eras. Knowledgeable guides will give you insights into relevant history.
If you love Elvis, start at the King’s Castle. The collection is owned by Greg Page, an original member of the popular children’s entertainment group The Wiggles. Learn about the life and career of Elvis Presley while seeing costumes he wore on stage and items from the singer’s house. Buy your own merchandise at the Visitor Information Centre.
Car fans love the Parkes Motor Museum, showcasing vehicles owned by the Parkes Antique Motor Club. Walk among the displays to see about 24 cars and 10 motorbikes amid fascinating memorabilia. Highlights include the 1911 Marini GA, which is thought to be one of only five left in the world. There’s also a 1940 Holden Oldsmobile Convertible.
Owned by the Parkes and District Historical Society, the Henry Parkes Museum and Antique Machinery Collection features items from early life in Parkes. Explore historic buildings, such as the wooden schoolhouse, churches and a blacksmith shop. You’ll also see a Silver City Comet carriage and 45 restored tractors.
At the Moat Cottage Replica, get an idea of where the Father of Federation, Sir Henry Parkes, was born in Warwickshire, England. As the name suggests, the city of Parkes was named for the statesman in 1873. Learn more about this history at the theater in Moat Cottage, which tells the story of Sir Henry Parkes from his humble beginnings.
Henry Parkes Centre is open 7 days a week year-round, except Christmas Day. Varied tickets are available to visit the different museums. Find the center on the northern side of the town of Parkes. Free on-site parking is available. Purchase snacks at the Visitor Information Centre.
