Armidale, New England North West — New South Wales

Armidale is a city located in the northeastern part of New South Wales, in its New England region. It is considered both a university and a cathedral city because of the presence of the University of New England and the designation of Armidale as the seat of Roman Catholic and Anglican bishops.

The designation of the region’s name has found its justification in this city, which experiences distinct changing of seasons, just like in England. Armidale also has an ambience not unlike that of cities found in Europe.

The city is home to several magnificent religious structures. At Dangar Street, there are two cathedrals, the St Mary's and St Joseph's Catholic Cathedral, built in 1912, and the St Peter's Anglican Cathedral, built in 1878. The former is of Gothic Revival style while the latter is of High Victorian Gothic style, and both are historic architectural marvels that the city is proud of. On Rusden Street is the Wesley Uniting Church and Hall, completed in the 19th century. Another church, the St Paul's Presbyterian, is located on Faulkner Street and was constructed in 1882. Further beyond the city limits is the St Nicholas's Church of England, a weatherboard structure built in 1864 and considered as one of the oldest in the area.

The University of New England is another establishment the city is known for. The university is accessed through the Queen Elizabeth Drive and occupies more than 200 hectares of rolling lands. The university boasts of several interesting structures, particularly the ‘Booloominbah' mansion a stunning structure with its pyramid chimneys, square tower, verandahs, and stained-glass windows. The ‘Trevanna’ is another historic residence within the campus, built in 1889. The university also incorporates a deer park, a Museum of Antiquities, and a Zoology Museum.

There are several natural attractions near the city that are visited by tourists year after year. The Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, for one, is ideal for bushwalking and animal viewing. The park has 13 waterfalls that provide wonderful sights, especially after rains. Elsewhere, there’s the Dangars Falls, accessed through the Dangarsleigh Road, the Wollomombi Falls, located east of the city, and the Ebor Falls that is accessed through the Guyra Road.

The rivers and creeks feeding these waterfalls are excellent spots for fishing and swimming. The Dumaresq Dam, situated northwest of the city, is also a popular destination for these activities.

Still further away is the New England National Park, recognized as a World Heritage site. There are several walks and trails within the park, while picnics and camping facilities are also provided.

The Cathedral Rock National Park has several granite outcrops that are big attractions for rock climbers. The park is accessed through the Round Mountain Road.

Another interesting spot worth visiting is the Aboriginal rock art site on the slopes of the Mount Yarrowyck.

Within the city, there are several urban attractions that can provide hours of enjoyment to varied visitors. They can take part of the city’s heritage walk that starts at the Central Park. The New England Regional Art Museum, located on Kentucky Street, specializes in showcasing local paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Armidale also boasts of several beautiful parks and a bicycle track that leads to the New England University.