You might think of Picton as a little dot on the map somewhere South of Camden or North-West of Wollongong. Or maybe you’ve driven past the sign and never given it a second thought. But this small town in the Wollondilly Shire – originally named Stonequarry by European settlers in the early 19th Century – has a rich, colourful and spooky history (you heard that right – it’s widely considered Australia’s most haunted town)!
Before European settlement, the land was home to the Gandangara people. European explorers first arrived in 1785 while searching for lost cattle, and from there Picton steadily grew — largely thanks to its railway precinct, now recognised as one of the earliest surviving railway sites in New South Wales. The railway played a central role in shaping the town’s economy, architecture and identity.
Today, Picton’s historic charm remains beautifully intact. Many of its 19th-century buildings are still standing and in use, giving the town its unmistakable heritage character.
Whether you’re a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast or simply drawn to countryside beauty and small-town charm, Picton delivers an intriguing day out — blending old-world character with warm country hospitality, scenic surrounds and a steadily growing mix of local cafes, pubs and boutiques waiting to be discovered.
First Stop: De Nada to Caffeinate
You can’t do any day trip justice without a perfectly balanced cuppa to kick things off. De Nada Cafe delivers just that. It’s a specialty coffee house, also serving up generous toasties, bagels & focaccias, as well as a range of sweet treats.
This is where the locals come to caffeinate. While the food is undeniably delicious, coffee is the true star here. It’s the kind of place where quality comes first and self-confessed coffee snobs happily drive half an hour each way just to secure their morning brew. And it’s well worth it. The beans are sourced from Melbourne-born specialty roaster St. Ali, and the baristas here know exactly how to do them justice – crafting cups that are creamy, smooth and beautifully aromatic.
If you’re eager to get out and explore, grab a takeaway – or – take your time and linger a little longer in the rustic warm atmosphere of the cafe.
Second Stop: The Viaduct – the Oldest Stone Archway in NSW
If you decide to grab your coffee to go, we recommend taking it to the Viaduct and enjoying it by the Stonequarry Creek, surrounded by lush greenery. If you’re wondering what on earth a Viaduct is – it’s a long bridge-like structure (usually a series of arches) carrying a road or railway across a valley. And quite frankly, the Picton Viaduct is a beautiful piece of architecture you’ll want to sit and admire. The sandstone structure was built between 1863 and 1867 and is heritage-listed – never needing any modifications due to its exceptional craftsmanship. The Viaduct, accessible via Webster road, is the oldest standing stone archway in New South Wales and (like many other spots in Picton) rumour has it that the site might be haunted. If you stop and listen, you might hear the sounds of people splashing in the water (where many are rumoured to have drowned over the years).
The Picton Viaduct is a must-stop spot for nature-lovers, history-buffs and railway enthusiasts alike.
Third Stop: The Mushroom Tunnel
When it comes to The Mushroom Tunnel, whispers of hauntings are more than just rumours. This old, abandoned railway tunnel, previously known as the Redbank Range Railway tunnel is guaranteed to make your hair stand on end, if you’re brave enough to enter.
During World War 2 the tunnel was used to store mustard gas spray tanks and ammunition. Later on, it was used as a place to grow exotic mushrooms like Shiitake and Oyster, but the origin of its haunting happened long before.
In 1916, Emily Bollard was walking through the tunnel late at night when she was hit by a train and killed. It’s never been confirmed as to whether Emily took her own life or this was simply a tragic accident, but on many occasions visitors have claimed to see a faceless woman in a long white gown floating through the tunnel. Others have spotted orbs of light hovering throughout, along with dark shadows darting back and forth.
The Mushroom Tunnel used to be a key stop for ghost tours in the town, hosted by John & Liz Vincent – which at one point – brought more than 200 visitors to Picton each week.
Whether or not you spot one of these sights for yourself, one thing’s for sure – the temperature easily drops ten degrees upon entry and the chilling echoes and walls scrawled with graffiti are enough to spook even the biggest of skeptics.
Fourth Stop: Lunch at George IV Inn
After all that ghost-hunting you will have probably worked up an appetite. Close by the tunnel is the historic George IV Inn – one of Australia’s oldest, continuously-operating pubs. This convict-build, sandstone watering hole also has cultural significance as a coaching stop and a 1980s microbrewery, famous for its “Burragorang Bock”.
Today, George IV operates as a pub (a very popular stop for the Bikies), a live music venue on occasion and a bistro serving delicious country pub-grub. There’s also accommodation available – but, beware – this too is rumoured to be haunted and the presence is reported as being antagonistic and aggressive. The cellar here was used to shackle convicts overnight as they were transported to Berrima prison – say less!
Fifth Stop: St Mark’s Church – A Concrete Storybook
Not far from the pub sits St Mark’s Church. Dating back to the mid 1800s, it’s a resting place of many early pioneers of the Wollondilly Shire. The beautiful sandstone building still operates as an Anglican church today, with services every Sunday at 9am.
The cemetery is like a concrete storybook. Strolling through, you’ll unfold tales of the past – names etched in stone, lives once loudly lived now resting quietly beneath the gums, each headstone a small reminder of the town’s deep and enduring roots.
Afternoon Shopping: Wild Poppy & Co & The Celebration Society
To bring you back to the modern day, we recommend a little retail therapy. Picton is full of unique little boutiques. Wild Poppy & Co is one for the ladies (or for men looking for a gift). This gorgeous boutique stocks a thoughtfully curated range of clothes, accessories, homewares, stationary and gifts. This is the kind of store you enter for a “quick browse” and leave with a tote-full of goodies.
If you’re after gifts and a yummy treat, stroll across to The Celebration Society to indulge in a gelato and browse their range of themed trinkets and decorations.Think elegant partyware, styling pieces, gifts and event essentials that you won’t find in your average big-box shop.
The store also doubles as an event space. Blending modern elegance with country charm, it’s become a go-to for milestone birthdays, baby showers and intimate gatherings in the Wollondilly region.
Sixth Stop: Picton Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens are the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or a sunny break after a busy day of eating, drinking, shopping, and ghost hunting. If you want to stretch your legs, the bike track running through the gardens stretches six kilometres end to end.
The gardens are meticulously manicured, showcasing a beautiful variety of in-season flowers, shaded gazebos, and a picturesque little lake. Families will love the newly renovated playground, which can easily keep the kids entertained for hours while you sit back and enjoy the birdsong and the gentle bubbling of the brook.
End the day with some take-home goodies from Cedar Creek Orchard and Pheasant’s Nest
Depending on where you’ve traveled from, you might want to grab another cup of coffee before hitting the road home. Moses Barnes offers a quality brew with character. It’s a cute little place to stop with an inviting atmosphere, rustic timber accents and cosy seating.
If you want to grab some healthy snacks for the car ride home, stop by Pheasant’s Nest – a local artisan grocer and kitchen with homemade dips, muffins, sauces, relishes and treats.
If you’re visiting Picton November through Jan, save some time to stop by Cedar Creek Orchard to pick your own peaches and nectarines (bookings required). Any other time of year you can stop by the Cedar Creek shed for apple cider, apple juice, apple cider vinegar and local pure honey.
Picton delivers a day trip full of surprises at every turn. From its heritage buildings to its quirky boutiques, scenic gardens, and eerie tunnels, this charming town proves that small towns can be packed with adventure. So bring your curiosity and your camera, and set out to uncover the stories, flavours, and hidden corners that make Picton an unforgettable escape in the heart of the Wollondilly Shire.
