In central New South Wales, not far from the stunning Blue Mountains National Park, lies the sleepy city ofLithgow. There are several Heritage Listed Sites around town which hints at the history associated with the area, and the town is dotted with parks and surrounded by creeks. Take in views of the lusciousLithgow Valley atBracey’s Lookout, south of theLithgowCBD.
The Great Zig Zag Railway, operational between 1870 and 1910, is now a popular tourist attraction about a ten minute drive from the Lithgow CBD. You can learn more about the construction and use of the railway at the Lithgow Visitor’s Information Centre in the heart of the city. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Lithgow, stop by one of the museums in the area, such as the Lithgow Small Arms Factory Museum, or Eskbank House and Museum.
Blast Furnace Park, east of the city centre, holds its own history. Amid the greenery lies what remains of a site once considered a cornerstone of Lithgow’s iron and steel industry. You can view the remains of the pump house and foundations of the furnace that were used up until 1928, when the operation was relocated.
Lithgow is a fairly quiet town which you can explore at a more relaxed pace. Visit the local establishments along Main Street, spend some time shopping at the Lithgow Valley Plaza and enjoy a meal with the locals at The Lithgow Tin Shed. The history is ripe here and a self-drive tour around the town will reveal some fantastic little gems worth visiting.
