This historic gaol is located on the main street of Dubbo, operated for over 119 years from 1847 until 1966 and now houses grim artefacts – check out the hangman’s kit and gallows – and hosts tours during school holiday periods.

On the first and third Saturday of the month, rain, hail or shine, Dubbo Farmers’ Market boasts 60 stall holders selling locally grown produce and a convivial village atmosphere.

Features touring exhibitions and pieces from the rich history of Dubbo and its surrounds.

Which is why it’s an ideal home for zebras, giraffes, lions and the like, and the closest you’ll come to an African safari in Australia. Taronga Western Plains Zoo has been inspiring visitors for over 40 years, showcasing hoards of elephants, cheetahs, zebras and even Sumatran tigers along wide expansive enclosures that feel as close to their natural habitat as possible.

The Lazy River estate winery hosts events and offers up lovely accommodation in the form of the Boat House Villa, from where you can stroll through the vines, picnic under 300-year-old gum trees and throw a line into the river. In the early morning you can hear the sound of the animals at Taronga Western Plains Zoo across the river.

Located in a heritage building that once housed The Land newspaper (hence the name), It strives to serve up dishes made with ingredients as local as possible including free-range or pastured meat and eggs, and crafted coffee that packs a punch.