Wisemans Ferry: River, Ferry and History

Wisemans Ferry is a riverside settlement in the heart of the Hawkesbury River. A ferry that still operates today, Wisemans Ferry Park on the riverbank and the history of the Old Great North Road give the place several distinctive features. The Ferry Artists Gallery in the village and a walking track in nearby Dharug National Park add to the mix. This means your trip planning can range from ferry and road-building history to time by the river, art and nature. Which hotels you look for therefore also depends on which of these sides of the place you want to shape your stay.

Ferry History and Time by the River

The Wisemans Ferry crossing is the oldest operating ferry crossing in New South Wales. It has been operating since 1827 and was established by Solomon Wiseman. If crossing by ferry is part of your plans, check the current timetable beforehand. Wisemans Ferry Park is on the Hawkesbury River and adjoins the ferry; its facilities include walking paths and a children's playground. So, in addition to the crossing, the paths and playground are options in their own right. Wisemans Ferry also has a public boat ramp. You can hire kayaks from Able Houseboats; check availability before you arrive.

A Road with a Remarkable History

The Old Great North Road adds a different historical dimension. It is a nationally significant example of major public infrastructure built using convict labour. The ferry tells the story of a crossing that has operated since 1827; the road draws attention to the construction of major public infrastructure by convict labour. Together, they represent two different forms of historic infrastructure.

Walking Between Ridges and Gorges

For nature experiences in the area, consider a different kind of outing: an 11 km walking track near Wisemans Ferry runs through Dharug National Park, over a steep ridge, through lush gorges and past clear, flowing creeks. You can choose between walking paths in Wisemans Ferry Park and a hike along the ridge, through the gorges and past creeks. Weather or fire danger may require the track to be closed. Before visiting, check the latest visitor information before planning your hike.

Art in the Village

The Ferry Artists Gallery is in the village of Wisemans Ferry. It adds art to the area's nature and infrastructure themes and gives your stay another possible focus. If you don't want to plan your trip solely around hiking and the river, you can include this cultural attraction in your plans.

Find Hotels to Suit Your Travel Plans

Local history and art offer different experiences from a hike in the national park. If you’re travelling with children, you can include the park playground as an additional activity. Look for hotels based on whether this mix of experiences in the village and an outing suits your travel plans.

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