What to do in Jugiong: The hidden gem of country NSW

This township, 40 minutes west of Yass, could just be one of NSW’s best-kept secrets, but it’s unlikely to be a hidden gem for much longer.

Small is an understatement when describing Jugiong. It has a population of only 222 people according to 2016 census data.

Settled in the 1820s, the town’s first post office opened in 1856. Before that, it had The Sir George Tavern which still stands today.

Until 1995, the Hume Highway ran straight through the town and it was a popular place for travellers to stop for a break. Now Jugiong appears to be having a resurgence with many visitors flocking to the town.

More and more Canberrans have recently been making the trip up the Hume to visit, and no doubt during the weekend the number of passers-by greatly outnumber the locals.

While it’s been bypassed it’s only a five-minute detour off the Hume, and therefore also popular with those making the trek from Sydney to Melbourne

Boutique shops and dining options make for a great day out, but with more happening in the town, it’s also firming as a great place to live for everybody from young families to tree changers and creatives looking for inspiration.

There’s a school, and it’s land and green pastures are an appealing lure. Home buyers have the opportunity to build their dream home.

No denying, the town is seeing a great resurgence.

EAT & DRINK 

The heart of the town is The Sir George – your typical country pub with a modern touch. Built in 1852, it was one of the town’s first buildings. It has recently undergone a renovation, yet retains an authentic feel with a rustic charm that delights. It serves as a restaurant, artisan bakery and bar. 

More recently, The Sir George opened accommodation on its grounds. The Barns and The Stables offer the perfect getaway in luxurious surrounds.

A few steps down from the pub, is Lickety Splits Gelato Bar, offering everybody’s favourite gelato flavours – a perfect cleanser after your pub feed.

If you’re in the mood for a cup of Java, Long Track Pantry is a neat coffee shop which also sells a delicious selection of handmade relishes and jams. There’s also a homewares store within the cafe selling decor and knick-knacks.

Jugiong is the gateway to the Hilltops Region, where you’ll find some of the best wines in the country. Upon leaving pick up some local drops from the Jugiong Wine Cellar, there’s a wide selection to delight the red, white and rosé drinkers.

SEE & DO 

Shopping in Jugiong is sure to leave you pleasantly surprised.

Up the hill from the pub, you’ll find a collection of shops in a complex called 4 Doors Up. The beautiful stores have unique and eclectic offerings.

Curators Collective, founded by stylist Carlie Oates, is her personal edit of furniture, homewares and fashion.

At The Yard Studio, you’ll find an array of boutique floral designs, indoor plants and incredible artworks just waiting to be hung up in your lounge room.

If you’re in the market for some beautiful custom-made leathers and furniture, check out Woodstock Resources.

Alongside the many other offerings in The Sir George is the Potting Shed which is stocked with goodies for the avid gardener.

Quirky Crow sits near the entrance to the town. It’s located in a former petrol station and the owners spent two years painstakingly restoring the building into a great gallery, shop and studio which is a must see.

LIVE 

Jugiong

Lot 11 Widgeongully Road 

$265,000

This 12-hectare property has Murrumbidgee River frontage and has development approval for a building. It’s just five kilometres from the centre of Jugiong.

Private sale

Agent: Delta Livestock & Property, Jim Guilfoyle 0428 628 342