· AU

Scone

Scone, New South Wales, Australia

Scone, located in New South Wales, Australia, is a charming town with a rich history and plenty to offer visitors looking for a relaxing getaway. Known as the 'Horse Capital of Australia', Scone is a must-visit destinati…

#Rural#Historic#Horse Racing#Heritage Buildings#Australian Countryside

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Scone.

Top Hotels in Scone

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Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Scone.

Tours

Scone Heritage Walk

Explore the historical sites of Scone with a leisurely walk through the town, showcasing heritage buildings and landmarks.

Shopping

Scone Markets

Browse a variety of stalls with local produce, crafts, and antiques in a vibrant community market.

Outdoor

Burning Mountain Nature Walk

Experience a unique underground coal seam fire that has been burning for thousands of years.

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From travelers

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Scone.

Currency

$ | AUD | Australian Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Scone

Jan

32°18°

Feb

31°18°

Mar

29°16°

Apr

25°12°

May

21°8°

Jun

18°5°

Jul

17°4°

Aug

19°5°

Sep

23°8°

Oct

26°11°

Nov

29°14°

Dec

31°17°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Scone.

What people love

Scone, located in New South Wales, Australia, is known as the horse capital of Australia and offers a unique blend of rural charm and heritage attractions. Here are some pros of traveling to Scone:

Horse Capital: Scone is famous for its thoroughbred horse breeding industry. Visitors can explore the numerous stud farms, attend horse races, or even participate in horse-related activities such as riding or polo.
Scenic Beauty: Scone is situated in the picturesque Upper Hunter region, surrounded by rolling hills, lush countryside, and the stunning backdrop of the Liverpool Range. Nature lovers will appreciate the beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Heritage Sites: Scone boasts a rich history, with heritage sites such as historic homesteads, churches, and museums showcasing the region's past. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local history and culture.
Food and Wine: The region around Scone is known for its gourmet food and wine offerings. Visitors can indulge in delicious local produce, visit wineries for tastings, or dine at charming cafes and restaurants.
Outdoor Activities: Scone and its surrounding area offer a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, cycling, and birdwatching. The region's natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Friendly Locals: Visitors to Scone often comment on the warm hospitality and friendliness of the locals. Travelers can expect a welcoming atmosphere and genuine interactions during their stay.

Overall, traveling to Scone offers a unique opportunity to experience the best of rural Australia, from horse culture to stunning landscapes and rich heritage.

What to know

Scone, located in New South Wales, Australia, is a charming town known for its horse breeding and equestrian events. However, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Scone:

Limited public transportation: Scone is a small town with limited public transportation options. Getting around may be challenging without a car, so it's important to plan for transportation in advance.
Limited dining and entertainment options: While Scone has a few restaurants and cafes, the dining and entertainment scene may be limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a variety of dining and nightlife options may find Scone lacking in this regard.
Limited accommodation choices: Scone has a limited number of accommodation options, which may result in limited availability or higher prices during peak travel seasons. It's advisable to book accommodation well in advance to secure the best options.
Distance from major cities: Scone is located a few hours' drive away from major cities like Sydney, Newcastle, and Brisbane. Traveling to and from Scone may require a significant amount of time on the road, especially for those relying on public transportation.
Limited tourist attractions: While Scone's horse-related heritage and events are a major draw for visitors, the town may have limited tourist attractions compared to other destinations in Australia. Travelers seeking a wide range of activities and sights to see may find Scone lacking in this aspect.

Overall, while Scone offers a unique experience for visitors interested in horses and rural life, it's important to consider these potential cons when planning a trip to the area.

Scone is a town in the Upper Hunter Shire in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia. It is renowned as the "Horse Capital of Australia" due to its long association with thoroughbred horse breeding.

Early History:

Indigenous Peoples: The area around Scone was originally inhabited by the Wonnarua and Gamilaroi Aboriginal people. They lived in the region for thousands of years before European settlement.
European Settlement: European settlers began to arrive in the early 19th century. The first recorded European in the area was Francis Little, who took up land in 1824 and named it 'Scone' after a village in Scotland.

Development:

Establishment of Scone: The town of Scone was formally established in the 1830s. It was named by Thomas Mitchell, the Surveyor-General of New South Wales, after the Scottish village that was the ancient crowning place of Scottish kings.
Agriculture and Economy: Initially, the area developed as an agricultural hub, with sheep and cattle farming being prominent. Over time, horse breeding became a significant industry, particularly with the establishment of thoroughbred horse studs.
Railway and Growth: The arrival of the railway in 1871 significantly boosted Scone’s growth, facilitating easier transport of goods and people, and contributing to its development as a commercial center.

Significant Events:

Floods: Scone has been affected by several significant floods, which have shaped the town's infrastructure and development.
Horse Industry: The proliferation of horse studs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries established Scone as a key player in the horse breeding industry. Today, it hosts several major horse events, including the Scone Horse Festival.

Historical Figures:

Francis Little: Credited with founding Scone, Little was an influential figure in the early European settlement of the area.
Thomas Mitchell: As Surveyor-General, Mitchell played a role in naming the town and was instrumental in the mapping and development of New South Wales.

Important Landmarks:

St Luke's Church: Built in the 19th century, it is one of the oldest churches in the region and a prominent historical landmark.
Scone Civic Theatre: A heritage-listed building that serves as a cultural venue for the community.
Scone Grammar School: Established in 1887, it is a significant educational institution with a long history.
White Park: A venue for equestrian events, it is central to Scone’s identity as a horse capital and hosts many of the town's major horse events.
The Australian Stock Horse Society: Headquartered in Scone, it is the largest equine recreational and pleasure association in the country.

Scone's identity as a horse breeding and equestrian hub continues to define its cultural and economic landscape, drawing visitors from across Australia and the world to its festivals and events.