Looking for a country town to discover, close to home? The historic town of Toodyay, on the banks of the Avon River, is found in the Wheatbelt region of the Avon Valley. Toodyay is 85 kilometres east of Perth, just beyond Gidgegannup. It is a popular place for a day trip, since it’s not too far away from Perth metro area, and has plenty to do! Our tip – visit in late August, when the fields of canola are in all their bright yellow glory!
Things to do in Toodyay
If you love an old building, the quaint historic high street (Stirling Terrace) dates back to the 1860’s. The road is lined with boutique shops, Antique stores, a ye olde lolly shop, galleries, cafes and more, making it great for a stroll and a bit of window shopping.
A good place to pop in first is the local Tourist Information Centre, where they can advise you of all the best things to do and see. This is found next to Connors Mill. You can’t miss that! At one end of Stirling Terrace, the old Connor’s Mill. This is home to the region’s historic milling machinery. Here there are interpretative displays on the process of turning wheat into flour, as well as the mill’s history. The Mill is open 7 days a week (entry via Toodyay Visitor Centre) with admission $6.40 per person ($4.30 concession).
The chequered past of Newcastle Gaol has tiny cells, a courtroom and the old Police stables. The Gaol is open 7 days, 10am – 3pm. Entry is $6 per person ($4 concession).
Christmas 360 is a Christmas shop in the lovely town of Toodyay that is open most of the year. You’ll be greeted by a giant Santa and mesmerised by the sights and sounds of the shop. We were amazed by how big it is! See more in the Seniorocity review.
Love trains? Plan a trip for the 1st or 3rd Sunday of the month when the Toodyay Miniature Railway will be running at Duidgee Park, on the banks of the River Avon. This is great fun and the grandkids will love it (closed shoes must be worn). The park also has plenty of BBQs and picnic tables, to BYO and enjoy a sausage sizzle on the banks of the River Avon.
Another spot to get a taste of Toodyay is Uniquely Toodyay. Found in the beautiful Old Post Office building, this art, crafts and gourmet food shop showcases the best of Toodyay and beyond. See more in the Seniorocity review.
Toodyay Emu Farm is rumoured to be the oldest Emu Farm in the world! The working farm is open to the public. You can see flocks of emus and photograph eggs and nests from May to August and see chicks hatching from July to October. An emu shop sells therapeutic emu oils, cosmetics, soap, feathers, meat, carved and non carved eggs as well as emu souvenirs and books. Open hours: Fri to Sun, by appointment only. Please phone 9574 1415 prior to visiting.
Places to Eat in Toodyay
Walking up the main road, Stirling Street, we could see there are many eating-out options. The country pubs (freemasons Hotel and Victoria Hotel) seem popular, as well as the quaint tearooms. Coca-Cola Café and Museum is a quirky spot, with over 6,000 items of Coca-Cola memorabilia collected over 45 years! Here you can dine on a home-style burger, or all-day breakfast, accompanied by a Coke. The red and white café is decked out 1950’s dinner style and there is a selection of milkshakes too.
For pie lovers, you can’t beat the award-winning Toodyay Bakery. The historic building has truck-loads of character and plenty of places to dine and enjoy a bite to eat. The upstairs balcony is a lovely place to sit. See more in the Seniorocity review.
Be sure to take a trip to Toodyay soon!
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