Bellingen

Bellingen Galleries and Museums

Bellingen is a picturesque town in the northern region of New South Wales, Australia, famous for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From its rolling hills, subtropical rainforests, and pristine river systems to its diverse artistic and historical offerings, Bellingen is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the beauty and richness of Australian culture. Here, we showcase some of the galleries, museums, and historical venues in and around Bellingen that are worth a visit.

Galleries

Bellingen has a thriving arts community, and the town is home to several galleries that showcase the work of local and international artists. Below are some of the must-visit galleries in Bellingen.

1. Nexus Community Gallery - The Nexus Community Gallery is a not-for-profit, community-run gallery that showcases the work of emerging and established artists across a diverse range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and ceramics. The gallery also hosts regular workshops and events.

Located: 51 Hyde St, Bellingen NSW 2454

2. Cedar House Gallery - Cedar House Gallery showcases the work of local artist Barry Cooper, who creates stunning landscapes and seascapes inspired by the natural beauty of the Bellingen region. The gallery is located in a historic cedar cottage that dates back to the 1870s.

Located: 6 Church St, Bellingen NSW 2454

3. The Bunker Cartoon Gallery - The Bunker Cartoon Gallery is Australia's only gallery dedicated to the art of cartooning. The gallery houses a vast collection of original cartoons and comics, as well as hosting regular exhibitions and events. It's a must-visit spot for anyone interested in the history of Australian comics and cartooning.

Located: John Champion Way, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Museums

Bellingen has a rich cultural and natural history, and several museums and heritage sites showcase the region's past. Below are some of the must-visit museums in the area.

1. Bellingen Museum - The Bellingen Museum is a volunteer-run museum that showcases the history and heritage of the Bellingen region. The museum houses an extensive collection of artefacts, photographs, and documents, alongside exhibits on the area's Indigenous and settler history.

Located: 1 Black Stump Way, Bellingen NSW 2454

2. National Dorrigo Rainforest Centre - The National Dorrigo Rainforest Centre is a museum and information centre that provides visitors with an insight into the biodiversity, cultural heritage, and ecological significance of the Dorrigo National Park. Visitors can also enjoy several hiking trails that take them through the heart of the park.

Located: Dome Road, Dorrigo NSW 2453

3. Coffs Harbour Regional Museum - The Coffs Harbour Regional Museum is a small museum that showcases the history of the Coffs Harbour region. The museum's exhibits cover a variety of topics, including the area's Indigenous history, colonial settlement, and the development of the local fishing and timber industries.

Located: 215A Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Historical Venues

Bellingen is home to several historical venues that offer a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the region's settlers and Indigenous people. Below are some of the must-visit historical venues in Bellingen.

1. Dorrigo Heritage Hotel - The Dorrigo Heritage Hotel is a beautifully restored heritage building that dates back to the 1920s. The hotel offers visitors a glimpse into the social and cultural history of the region, with its elegant architecture and period furnishings.

Located: 64 Hickory St, Dorrigo NSW 2453

2. Urunga Boardwalk - The Urunga Boardwalk is a wooden boardwalk that stretches across the mouth of the Bellinger and Kalang Rivers, providing visitors with stunning views of the estuary and surrounding wetlands. The boardwalk is also an important cultural site for the Gumbaynggirr people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years.

Located: Morgo St, Urunga NSW 2455

3. Old Butter Factory - The Old Butter Factory is a beautifully restored heritage building that was once used to produce butter and cheese. The building now houses several artisanal food and craft stalls, as well as art galleries and studios. Visitors can also take a stroll through the surrounding gardens and soak in the beauty of the Bellingen River.

Located: 1 Doepel St, Bellingen NSW 2454

Bellingen and its surrounds offer a plethora of galleries, museums and historical venues that are sure to pique the interest of anyone seeking to explore Australia's rich cultural and natural heritage. With so much to see and experience, it's no wonder that Bellingen is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New South Wales, Australia.