Morpeth is one of those towns that, if you blink while driving through it, you might miss it. Morpeth may seem like a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town, but don’t be fooled. This enchanting village, just 30 minutes from Newcastle, offers plenty to see and do, from its 19th-century heritage buildings and old-fashioned candy stores to its picturesque riverbank lined with horses. It’s the perfect family day trip for a taste of history and nature close to home!
Morpeth’s activity centres around its main street, Swan Street, lined with antique stores, delis, cafés and a museum. Grab a parking spot along this street or on the outskirts in one of the connected side streets. This allows you to take a good walk around Morpeth and see it all.
Begin the day with a breakfast at any one of the inviting cafés along Swan Street. Of course, one needs to line the tummy before venturing out to sample fudge, candy, and ginger beer at Campbells Store.
Campbells Store is a large heritage building housing antique stores, galleries, and delis.
The second floor is home to a toy store and museum unlike any other. Imagine the look on your children’s faces as they discover a treasure trove of vintage toys, including hundreds of dolls from every era. This magical place captures a sense of wonder that modern toy stores often miss. It’s truly fascinating.
No visit to Morpeth with children would be complete without a visit to Miss Lily’s Lollies. Whilst Campbells Store offers an array of delicious treats, Miss Lily’s Lollies sells a range of homemade fudge, and the largest range of Australian, American and English lollies.
It’s not rare to see both adults and children leaving Miss Lily’s Lollies with their own bag of lollies!
Once you have your snacks, you’ll want a spot to enjoy them in the sunshine and you have a range of options. Our favourites include Illalaung Park or Morpeth Common (Ray Lawler Reserve).
Illalaung Park is a great spot on Swan Street with a lovely grassy area and views of the Hunter River. There are picnic tables, and you can walk down a staircase to the river and go under the Morpeth bridge – it’s a unique experience to hear the cars zooming by up above!
For more open space, head 750 meters from the town centre to the beautiful Morpeth Common.
Morpeth Common is a sprawling green space with a sealed car park, amenities, picnic benches and a nature-based playground. A great countryside meeting place for friends or family.
Kids and adults alike will enjoy watching ducks swimming peacefully on the large pond. It’s home to many breeds of duck including Chestnut Teal, Black Ducks, Pekin Ducks and Moorhens. Most of the ducks are very friendly and will swim up close looking for food. If you want to take food to feed them, ensure that it’s suitable for wild ducks.
With its beautiful, relaxing ambience, it’s a peaceful feeling to stand and watch the ducks. Just be careful with little ones as the pond isn’t fenced on the other side of the bridge.
There are horses, ducks and cows nearby and, as far as public parks go, this is one of our favourites.
The reserve stretches along a deep avenue of trees, which end at a field of inquisitive cows and horses. The large and inviting green space is perfect for birthday parties, picnics, or even just a walk and some fresh air.
So, next time you’re near Morpeth, don’t just drive by. This charming town is a true gem, offering a warm welcome and a plenty of family experiences. Park the car, gather the family, and discover all that Morpeth has to offer.
For more information, visit My Maitland website.
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Have a Play and Watch the Ducks at Morpeth Common