The Best Hotels and Places to Book Your Stay in Goulburn, New South Wales

Within strolling distance of the train station and golf course, this antique-filled guesthouse has traditionally styled rooms and apartments, with patchwork quilts, period pieces of furniture and colourful art. Admire the meticulous restoration in the stately guest lounge or connect with nature on the courtyard patio. You’ll feel grand, nibbling buttery croissants in the formal dining room. Complimentary bike hire means you can wheel your way around the town’s many other historic buildings.

Trainspotters will steam over to this traditional pub that’s bursting with character and history, across the street from the railway station and 2km (1.2mi) from the Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre. One of the oldest watering holes in town, it was once known as the Coolavin Hotel. Today, 10 classic rooms will cool you with whirring ceiling fans while armchairs allow you to cosy up if you want to read a book. Rub shoulders with the locals while enjoying hearty pub fare and beers in the eclectic train-themed restaurant, bar and beer garden.

Two minutes’ walk from the town centre, you’ll find the perfect blend of history and modern luxury at this hotel built on the site of a former school. The 100-year-old bricks and Spanish terracotta roof tiles fit in nicely with the surrounding church buildings. Admire the area from period-style wrought-iron verandas leading off rooms styled in smart blue and white. When hunger strikes, pop into one of the atmospheric cafes lining neighborhood streets.

Set on a quiet leafy road just off the Hume Highway and a five-minute drive from the town centre, the period exterior of this two-storey Georgian inn belies the modern interiors with single, family or two-bedroom suites. Nods to its past come from painted brick and bentwood chairs. Rest in the surrounding peaceful gardens with a refreshing drink and a hearty, home-cooked meal such as Australian lamb shank.

Discover a slice of family-owned comfort in the country. Even the simple guest rooms have kitchenettes, and executive king suites add living areas you could live in and relaxing hot tubs. Decor sways towards nature-themed greens and browns. But the prettily planted gardens are the real star of the show here, so make time to stroll around the beautifully landscaped, award-winning cottage garden or sit for a while in the sweet gazebo. Even your family dog or cat is welcome, with pet-friendly cabins available.

Yes, even the big chains think Goulburn is worthy of their presence. But unlike its city-slicker relatives, this outpost is informal and set in stunning gardens. Unwind in the soothing, neutral-toned rooms and suites with statement headboards, leather sofas and striped throws. Tuck into staples such as pork belly in the light-filled restaurant after a busy day seeing local sights such as the Big Merino, a 15m-high (49ft) ram with a gift shop and lookout platform in its eyes.

A five-minute drive from Goulburn Brewery, this apartment-style motel is worth every gong it has won. Slap bang in the middle of town, you’re steps from all the attractions, restaurants and antique stores. Don’t miss the happy hour in the lobby, then curl up in front of the log fire with a glass of Australian wine and a good book. Cascades restaurant and bar dishes up meals made with fresh local produce for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

This property is set on 2.8ha (7 acres) of bush, a stone’s throw from the Big Merino. Discover a fitting variety of shearing-themed accommodation, from Merino and Homestead villas to Shearers cabins and drive-through caravan and camping. Choose family two-bedroom villas, one-bedroom studios, cabins, pet-friendly cabins and dongas – single self-contained rooms with ensuite bathrooms. You’ll find everything you need for a welcoming, comfortable and affordable stay. Socialise around the barbecue and picnic area.