Maitland accommodation from AU$110

With a population close to 70,000, Maitland is a 166km road trip from Sydney and a 35km trip from Newcastle. In the past it was three separate towns – East Maitland, West Maitland and Morpeth, which were fused to become the city of Maitland in 1945. Once the main town of the Hunter region, it still sports a number of historic buildings. 1800s-style architecture lines areas like High Street and Ken Tubman Drive in town. You’ll have plenty of options to pick from if you’re looking for coffee or a meal: Maitland City Centre is an open-air shopping mall in the heart of the town with restaurants and cafes at the ready along with antique shops, fashion outlets and big name retailers like Kmart and Woolworths. For a look at Maitland’s vibrant arts scene, visit the Maitland Regional Art Gallery (MRAG) to see exhibitions from local and national artists.

Maitland Gaol, built in 1844, housed some of Australia’s worst criminals until it closed its doors in 1998. Now it’s open to the public, and you can learn about the history of the jail and some of its most infamous characters with a themed tour, a self-guided audio tour or even an overnight stay (if you dare). For more historical sightseeing, take a look at Grossman House on Church Street for a gander inside an authentic Victorian-era residence.

But don’t restrict your time in the Hunter to Maitland. There’s so much more to explore! Embark on a wine tour, play a game of golf or take a walk through one of the nearby national parks such as Yengo – there are heaps of activities. Book your Maitland hotel with us today and start hunting the Hunter!