Dungog NSW: Things to Do, Where to Stay & Eat - Hunter Valley Guide
- Apr 16
- 5 min read
Updated: May 2
Dungog is a NSW village in the Hunter Valley and is quickly becoming a popular place to visit especially for art lovers and mountain bike riders. Mountain bike riders visit in great numbers thanks to the Dungog Common; a piece of crown land on the outskirts of town. The Common is also popular with bushwalkers, so grab your hiking gear, hop in the car and head to Dungog NSW. Visit Ride Dungog for more information.
For artisan lovers, the biennial Sculpture on the Farm attracts many visitors to Dungog. As well, there are many art/craft galleries and centres.
Settlers Arms Dungog
Settlers Arms offers style and comfort within a historic building surrounded by rolling hills. Due to Covid you will need to book though. Food here is also sourced locally. The hotel also offers accommodation. I did sense a ghost when I visited, so I asked Tracy, the manager, if there was a ghostly resident. Apparently, yes, Mrs Walsh, who was the Publican in the 1980s, still likes to keep an eye on things, and she also likes to meddle with the keys. Don't worry, she's friendly.
Settlers Arms offers accommodation, dining and bar.
History of Settlers Arms
Settlers Arms was established in 1848. Originally located in Dowling Street, it was relocated to the present site in the 1853. Most of the bricks used were made by convicts. The ‘new’ part of the building, that is located closest to Lord Street, dates back to 1891. In 1901, Settlers Arms became The Courthouse Hotel and was known as such up until 2005 when it once again became, Settlers Arms.
45 Brown Street, Dungog, NSW
Places to Stay in Dungog NSW
Places to Stay in Dungog
20 acres of riverside bliss - outdoor fire heated bath! Peaceful escape from city life.
Sleeps 10 - perfect for families and groups. Ave $660 per night.
Character-filled timber weatherboard farmhouse steeped in history. Pet friendly.
3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Prices average $367 per night.
Wallaringa Farmstay
Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an unforgettable getaway, a Hunter Valley farmhouse stay in NSW offers the perfect escape. Wallaringa Farm is a luxurious farmstay with much to offer. Enjoy local gourmet experiences, connect with nature, and relish the tranquility of this stunning region. Discover why luxury farm stays near Newcastle are the ultimate choice for your next countryside adventure.
Food and Wine in Dungog
Westwood Dungog Providores
Westwood Dungog Providores offers various local grass-fed beef, free-range pork and chicken and other specialities. Westwood Dungog Providores can also supply you with their own free-range smoked bacon and pork ribs. There's a range of condiments and cheese on offer, and the smoked trout is fantastic.
261 Dowling Street, Dungog, NSW
Rock Frog Grange
At Rock Frog Grange, enjoy a unique range of handcrafted Verdelho, Chambourcin, and Shiraz wines. Each bottle reflects our dedication to quality, containing only a minimal amount of preservatives. Savour the purity of winemaking with every sip.
Delight in free tastings, discover the vineyard and winery, or relax in the tranquil garden beneath a large pergola. Rock Frog Grange is open to families and pet enthusiasts—children can play freely, and dogs are warmly invited.
612 Limeburners Creek Road
Clarence Town NSW 2321
Australia
(02) 4996 4046
Tinshed Brewery
Tinshed Brewery is a locally owned and operated brew pub in the heart of town offering craft beer, terrific food and a relaxed atmosphere with dining outdoors overlooking Dowling Street.
The craft beers are all brewed onsite in the microbrewery using both Australian and European ingredients. The menu is created using local produce and a selection of local wines is also available.
109 Dowling Street, Dungog, NSW
Royal Hotel Dungog
Right in the heart of town, the Dungog Royal Hotel is one of those classic country pubs that instantly grounds you in the history of the region. The current building dates back to the early twentieth century, when Dungog was growing on the back of agriculture and the arrival of the railway, and it still holds that sense of a bustling rural hub where locals and visitors naturally come together.
Today, the hotel blends that heritage character with a relaxed, welcoming feel. Expect generous pub-style dining, a traditional bar, and comfortable accommodation upstairs, all within walking distance of Dungog’s main street. It is the kind of place where you can settle in after a day exploring the surrounding countryside, whether you have been out on the trails, driving the scenic routes, or simply enjoying the slower pace of this historic Hunter region town.
Budget accommodation from $149 per night. Perfect for a overnight stay.
Clothing and Homewares in Dungog
Hidden Valley Clothing
If it is the country you look like, then this is the store for you. Well-known brands including Thomas Cook, Akubra and Wrangler, to name only a few, are stored here. Hidden Valley Clothing stocks women, men's, children, footwear including cowboy boots and housewares. It's a family business with a friendly team: Maree, Brianna and Keisha. If you can't get to Dungog you can always purchase country clothing online.
143 Dowling Street, Dungog, NSW
Dungog Arts and Culture
Hive and Gobbler
Step back in time when knitting and weaving were essential skills. Sustainability and support for buy-from-the-bush companies and producers is a major focus for the owners Brownen and Michael. The products are all sustainable, including yarn from their own Alpaca farm. This gorgeous store stocks countless yarns, craft materials and accessories. You can book in for a creative lesson at the classes held at the store. If you can't get to Dungog hop on the website for online orders.
211 Dowling Street, Dungog, NSW
Dungog by Design
This is a collective of makers living and creating in the Dungog Shire. Here you will discover various beautiful hand-made items including jewellery, photography, painting, sculpture, textiles and much more. Dungog by Design is the perfect place to shop for that unique gift for someone or a treat for yourself.
224 Dowling Street, Dungog, NSW
The Flower Shop
Located in Dungog, NSW, a small flower farm and florist provides seasonal bouquets and arrangements with a considerate approach to floral design, ensuring a personalised gifting experience. The Flower Shop also caters for weddings and events.
220 Dowling St Dungog
Ph: 0434 928 948
James Theatre
James Theatre is the oldest purpose-built cinema still operating in Australia and the building is magnificent. The James Theatre is a multi-purpose facility hosting films, live performances, dance and film classes. The venue is available for private functions, weddings, educational purposes and events. Visit the website to check out what's on.
6 Brown Street, Dungog, NSW
Weather in Dungog NSW
The weather in Dungog, New South Wales, is characterised by a temperate climate that showcases distinct seasonal variations throughout the year. Nestled in the picturesque Hunter Valley region, Dungog experiences a blend of warm summers and cool winters, making it an appealing destination for both residents and visitors alike.
During the summer months, Dungog experiences average high temperatures ranging from 28 to 34 degrees Celsius.
As Autumn arrives in March and lasts until May, temperatures begin to gradually decrease, with averages falling between 20 to 28 degrees Celsius The foliage in and around Dungog transforms into a stunning display of warm hues, attracting nature enthusiasts and photographers who wish to capture the beauty of the changing landscape.
Winter, from June to August, brings cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from 5 to 18 degrees Celsius. Frost can occur during the coldest nights, particularly in the early morning, creating a serene and crisp atmosphere.
As spring approaches in September and lasts until November, Dungog begins to warm up again, with temperatures rising from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius.