Hartley Courthouse

Attraction
Hartley Courthouse
Hartley Courthouse
Hartley Courthouse
Hartley Courthouse
Hartley Courthouse
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Park alerts

Hartley Historic Site

2 current alerts · Checked 14 Oct 2026, 10:05 pm

  • Fire bansUntil 31 Mar 2027

    Park Fire Ban - Upper Mountains Reserves

    A park fire ban is in place in this park and remains in effect unless otherwise extended or removed. During park fire ban periods, all campfire and solid fuel (wood, heat beads, charcoal, briquettes, hexamine) barbecues and stoves are prohibited. Gas and electric barbecues and cookers are permitted as long as:

    • They're under direct control of an adult
    • The ground within 2m of the barbecue is cleared of all flammable materials
    • There's an adequate supply of water (minimum of a bucket)

    If a Total Fire Ban is in place, different rules apply. Contact the local park office before bringing a gas or electric barbecue or cooker.
    Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information about fire bans in parks and reserves including your responsibilities, visit the NSW National Parks fire safety page.

About

Hartley Courthouse was designed by colonial architect Mortimer Lewis in the Greek Revival style. This imposing building was constructed of locally quarried sandstone in 1837 and remains largely intact.

You'll feel immersed in its past with re-enactments of the court process through audio tracks and holograms. You can even step into a prison cell that kept many notorious bushrangers and cattle thieves. Inside the cells, with their bars and bolts still in position, you can imagine the thoughts of men used to roaming the country locked up tight in this remote prison.

In 1887 the Hartley Court of Petty Sessions was officially closed. It was reserved for public recreation in 1914 and became a popular rest stop for people travelling to Jenolan Caves. Today the building stands as a reminder of the past and the development of the colony.

44 Old Great Western Highway, Hartley, NSW, 2790 · Hartley Historic Site · Sydney and surrounds

This fine example of colonial architecture allows you to imagine the convicts, magistrates and members of the public passing through its doors. Book a guided tour through Hartley Historic Site Visitor Centre.

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Medium

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Frequently asked questions

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Where you'll be

44 Old Great Western Highway

Hartley NSW 2790

Hours

Closed now

Today: 00:00–16:00