Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to Pokolbin.

Hunter Valley Gardens

09:00–17:00 · Every dayLast entry 16:00; closed 25 December

Christmas Lights season

09:00–16:30 · 30 October 2026 – 31 January 2027Last day entry 15:30; the evening lights need their own ticket

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the gardens

Hunter Valley Gardens is on Broke Road at Pokolbin, in the heart of the Hunter Valley wine country; the Shopping Village is just outside the entrance.

• By car: from Sydney, allow about two hours via the M1; take the Cessnock and vineyards exit and follow the signs through Cessnock to Pokolbin. Parking is free.
• By air: Newcastle Airport is about 50 minutes from the gardens by car.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• A café inside the gardens for refreshments.
• About 8 km of paths linking ten themed gardens.
• Lakes, waterfalls and statues along the way.
• The Shopping Village just outside the entrance, with places to eat.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection; the gardens are outdoors. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

The gardens have about 8 km of paths surfaced with crushed sandstone, with paths and ramps wide enough for wheelchairs and prams; some surfaces are loose, so wear sensible shoes. Wheelchairs are not available for hire, so bring your own. Free parking includes a limited number of accessible spaces for permit holders.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
• Registered companions with a Companion Card should show it at Garden Entry.

Enjoy the gardens thoughtfully

• Keep to the paths, leave the plants and statues untouched, and supervise children.
• Pets are not allowed; registered guide and companion dogs are welcome with their documentation.
• Picnics, food and drink may not be brought in, except sealed bottled water.
• Drones, bicycles, scooters, ride-on toys, skates, skateboards and eskies are not permitted.
• Professional photography and filming need the gardens’ written consent.
• Follow the signs and staff guidance.

A little care helps protect the gardens and keeps them pleasant for everyone.

Make time for a pause

There is a café inside the gardens, and the Shopping Village just outside the entrance has places to eat. Many Hunter Valley restaurants are a short drive away.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

Bring water with you, especially on warm days.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: follow your ticket’s instructions for entering the gardens.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, sun protection and a charged phone make the day easier.
• Leave space to linger: allow extra time for the lakes and the Storybook Garden.