Morpeth on the Hunter River
Morpeth
Initially created through by Edward Charles Close, who selected a property of 1,000 hectares Morpeth developed as a river port from 1831-1841.
The river port grew steadily throughout the 1830s, but the construction of the Great Northern Railway in 1857, bypassed Morpeth. This resulted in Newcastle developing as the regional port. Morpeth became less significant commercially, but still survived as a township with its own history and heritage.
The town is now popular with tourists because of its historic buildings and riverside setting.
Getting There
Sitting a 10 minute drive from Maitland, the historic town of Morpeth is one of the Hunter Valley’s major attractions. On the drive from Maitland look out for the brightly painted shed advertising “Dr Morse’s Indian Root Pills”, as it’s a well known site by the Hunter River. Originally from North America, these pills are still manufactured and sold in Australia.
Parking in Morpeth can be at a premium on busy days, particularly in front of shops on the main road (Swan Street). There are more spots a available further down the road opposite the museum and old Post Office (now a vets).
Painted Shed Indian Root Pills on the Way to Morpeth
Swan Street
Most of the shops and restaurants face onto Swan Street, which makes them easy to find, because you are not wandering around back streets.
Row of Buildings in Swan Street Morpeth 
Old Stone Walkway 
Telephone Box
Morpeth Bridge
Opened on 15 June 1898, the Morpeth Bridge is a timber trestle bridge employing Allan trusses. It has two central iron cylinder span supports fabricated by Mort’s Dock. Spanning the Hunter River at Morpeth, the bridge is listed on the state heritage register because of its technical and historical characteristics.
Hunter River Bridge 
Hunter River Bridge 
The Morpeth Bridge
Historic Buildings
Located on Swan Street, most of the historical buildings are in excellent condition and look beautiful. Many are now used for different purposes than what they were built for, so have small plaques in the footpath showing their original use.
The Old Post Office 
CBC Bank 
St James Anglican Church 
Derelict Trading Post 
Courthouse Plaque 
Commercial Hotel Plaque
Campbell’s Store
Located on the corner of Swan and Tank Streets, Campbell’s store is a collection of small businesses in one large building. From second-hand dealers, clothes and food, there is a lot to see and explore here. At the back of the building is a café and the Morpeth art gallery, which sells art and often has exhibitions on the second floor.
Ally Next to Campbell’s Store 
Post Box Outside Campbell’s Store 
Rear of Campbell’s Store 
Old Railway Carriage
Other Interesting Things to See
Walking around, you will find several interesting sights, including painted lane ways, sweet shops, and old telephone box, and a mannequin inviting you for free ginger beer tasting.
Free Ginger Beer Tasting 
Painted Murals on Berkley Street 
Painted Murals on Green Street
What Did We Think?
Morpeth is a great place to spend a day out exploring, because it has so much to offer. From historic buildings, antique shops, or a relaxing meal overlooking the Hunter River, it’s a great place to visit.
To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.
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