Suggested itinerary for groupsScenic beauty, heritage buildings, unique villages, boutique shopping, an emerging food scene and welcoming people are just some of the factors that lead visitors to Maitland.

Built on the banks of the Hunter River, which brought life and trade to the early city, Maitland is one of the oldest heritage rich regional centres in Australia.

Whether you are here for a visit, a short time or a lifetime, the one thing you can be sure of is that you’re welcome in Maitland.

SATURDAY MORNINGOPTION 1 CENTRAL MAITLAND HERITAGE WALK AND CAFÉ SCENEScope out the rich architectural history of Central Maitland before Riverlights starts with the Maitland Heritage Walk. Grab a coffee and be part of Maitland’s growing espresso scene at any of the below cafés:

• The Bikesmith and Espresso Bar

• Sweet Retreat Café• The Whistler • Lavenders Riverside Café• Black Label Espresso

• House of Expresso • The New Place Café • The Orange Tree • Dragonfly Foods • The Cabin Collective

OPTION 2 MORTELS UGG BOOTSSee how Australia used to live off the sheep’s back and how leather and wool is manufactured to become the world famous Australian Ugg Boot at Mortels Ugg Boots. The site includes a museum, shop and café and you can get the perfect group photo in front of the massive ‘Big Ugg Boots.’

mymaitland.com.au

Morpeth Bridge

Maitland’s Jewish Synagogue (Featured in the Heritage Walk)

SATURDAY LUNCHCENTRAL MAITLAND RESTAURANTSChoose from one of the many eateries in the Central Maitland area. Newy Burger Co at The Grant Junction Hotel offers a trendy range of flavours including devilishly rich deserts. For something light before Riverlights, grab some tacos from El Chapo. There are also a range of Chinese, Thai and Australian takeaway restaurants along High Street and the many cafes offer a range of scrumptious meals, snacks and treats.

RIVERLIGHTS MULTICULTURAL FESTIVALHead to The Levee for Riverlights. The event kicks off at 3.00pm. Wander the global village, sample some of the many fabulous foods on offer and watch the lantern display on the Hunter River before the event finishes up at 9.00pm.

SATURDAY NIGHT KICK ON OPTION 1 CENTRAL MAITLAND NIGHTLIFECentral Maitland has a pub or club to suit all tastes. If craft beer and a relaxing atmosphere is key than The Pourhouse has a wide range of local and premier craft beers and the bar staff specialise in a range of cocktails. If live, original music ticks the box, The Grand Junction Hotel also known as the Junkyard is unmissable. For sports the Belmore Hotel or Coach and Horses Hotel and for a taste of Ireland head to Shenanigans at The Imperial Hotel.

OPTION 2 CRIMES OF PASSION TOUR AT MAITLAND GAOL Change gears and go back in time to hear some of the wild and harrowing tales of how some of the areas most shocking murderers ended up in Maitland Gaol at 8.00pm. Adults only. Pre-booking essential (Note: this tour departs before Riverlights activities finish at 9.00pm).

SUNDAY BREAKFASTMORPETH HISTORIC VILLAGEMorpeth features a selection of cafes open for breakfast with cosy Savannah on Swan, The Servants Quarters Tearooms, Common Grounds, Mealys, Lillies & Limes Catering and Café and Cupz ‘N Crepes, there’s something for everyone.

In Morpeth you’ll discover it’s well worth spending some time exploring the well-trodden paths of those who built them. Journey through narrow laneways, beside sandstone gutter and into heritage buildings. The fascinating history, beautiful position on the river and a diverse range of independent retailers makes Morpeth a popular weekend escape.

SUNDAY MORNING ACTIVITYSUNDAY DRIVETake the Historic Bridge Drive before visiting the Museum of Clothing at Brough House or go a little further to visit Tocal Homestead. One of the earliest colonial settlements in the area the folks at Tocal have an innovative audio tour available and take bookings for guided tours for groups.

SUNDAY LUNCHFrom Tocal the historic village of Paterson is only a short drive down the road. Get a bite to eat at the Paterson Country Café or Paterson Tavern and Yabbies Bistro. Heading back into Maitland, The Whistler offers a relaxed environment with a wide menu of modern fusion dishes.

The Levee Central Maitland

Riverlights Multicultural Festival