The picture-perfect village of Carcoar is nestled in a small sheltered valley beside the meandering Belubula River. A true historic gem, it is the third-oldest settlement west of the Blue Mountains. With a spectacular backdrop of rolling green hills, it is easy to see why the area was a drawcard for early settlers.
Classified by the National Trust because of its large number of preserved 19th century buildings, highlights include well-preserved mid to late Victorian buildings along the main street, St Paul's Anglican Church consecrated in 1849, the Court House built in 1882, and the 1849 convict-built stables of Stoke House.
Carcoar streets and buildings have been a popular backdrop for movies with the village appearing in a number of Australian movies including; 'Jessica', 'Backtrack', 'Brides of Christ', 'Let the Balloon Go', 'Country Life', 'Peter Allen: Not the boy next door' and the recent series 'Ten Pound Poms'.
In 2022, Carcoar was awarded the Top Tourism Town Award for towns with a population of less than 1,500. Carcoar was praised as a wonderful piece of living history and a brilliant place to recharge the batteries, step back to yesteryear and be immersed in local hospitality.
Carcoar could well be known as 'the unofficial museum capital of Australia' with 5 museums in the small village that help bring the stories of early settlement to life and is home to a collection of speciality businesses including; Tomolly with curated homewards and fashion; The Rustic Flamingo with vintage wares; A Thousand Words Gallery offering visitors an inspiring and immersive experience; Carcoar Pottery with hand crafted ceramics; The Village Grocer a small espresso bar with locally sourced food options and The Royal Hotel providing the classic country pub experience;
Opening hours in the village can vary so be sure to check with individual businesses ahead of time.
