Tamworth is the country’s capital of country music and while the town is awash with cowboys and cowgirls, the horse capital of Australia is Scone in the NSW Upper Hunter Valley.
There are many ‘horse experiences’ to be had in Scone, and if you’re interested in horse breeding, you can book a private tour at the Kingstar Farm in Denman. Get up close to prize- winning stallions, including Unite and Conquer, Ball Point and Lord of the Sky. You can also see the young yearlings at play in the pens and, if you’re lucky, you may even see a newborn foal who may go on to become a future champion!
For horse-lovers, there is nothing better than actually riding a horse. If you’re keen to ‘saddle up’ and experience some of the stunning Scone scenery, book yourself into the ‘Outback Experience’ run through the Kihope Riding Centre. Together with your trusty steed, you’ll explore the picturesque scenery at Banool Angas Park, culminating at the top of the hill where you’ll be treated to spectacular views, as well as post-ride drinks, damper and snacks.
If you want to ‘eat like a horse’, make sure you swing into one of Scone’s biggest attractions The Thoroughbred. A bar, restaurant and bakery, The Thoroughbred has recently experienced a dramatic renovation and is now the place to be in town. The restaurant was also crowned ‘Best Pub Steak’ at the 2019 AHA awards, so you’re guaranteed a good feed!
If you love ‘big country skies’, just out of town is some of the Upper Hunter’s finest accommodation, Strathearn Park Lodge. The bed and brekky offers four huge suites, each, spa baths and private gardens overlooking the town and mountain range in the distance. The lodge has also hosted Australian racing royalty, including one of the country’s greatest horse trainers, Gai Waterhouse.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Kingstar Farm, Denman
@kingstar_farm
0437 842 852
kingstarfarm.com.au
Kihope Riding Centre, Scone
@krcscone
0407 991 468
krcscone.com
The Thoroughbred, Scone
@thethoroughbredscone
(02) 6545 3669
thethoroughbredscone.com
Strathearn Park Lodge
@strathearnparklodge
(02) 6545 3200
strathearnparklodge.com.au
