Camden acts as the bridge between the suburbs of Western Sydney and the farms of the surrounding Macarthur region. In fact, the suburb began life as a farm and was founded by the Macarthur family (of sheep breeding fame) in the 1830s. The historic main street retains many of its beautiful heritage buildings and its inviting pubs will give you a taste of days gone by. Camden is the closest place to the city where you can take a hot air balloon flight, floating gently over the patchwork fields, rivers and national park.

Things to do in Camden

Camden offers a taste of rural life just an hour from Sydney. Along Camden Valley Way, stop at John Oxley Cottage, a quaint 1890’s worker’s cottage housing the Camden Visitor Information Centre. In town, admire the impressive facades, reminiscent of various architectural styles from Georgian to Art Deco. Inside the majestic gothic-style ‘Macaria’ built in 1860, is Alan Baker Art Gallery, presenting works by its namesake, Alan Baker, and other significant Aussie artists. Across the road is the Camden Library and Camden Museum, with a fascinating collection of photos, maps, furniture and uniforms, donated by local residents.

*Explore Camden Museum in Western Sydney. (Image: Destination NSW)*

Here, outdoor adventures make the most of the lush countryside setting. See rolling hills from sky-high in a sunrise balloon ride over the valley with Balloon Aloft Camden. Look out for Camden’s notable landmark St John Church with its recognisable spire, perched on a hill overlooking the town. Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan is about a 20-minute drive from Camden, with 416 hectares of beautiful lawns, native trees and colourful Australian flowers.

Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan — *The Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan. (Image: Destination NSW)*

Grab a takeaway from Dear Coffee and head towards Macarthur Park for a glorious vista of the surrounding landscape. Gifted to Camden in 1905 by Elizabeth Macarthur-Onslow, it has a heritage rose garden and War Memorial. Another attraction is Camden Town Farm, a 52-hectare working farm with grazing dairy and beef cattle that holds a produce market on the weekend. Follow the art trail dotted with artworks reflecting the Indigenous and agricultural history of the Macarthur region.

Shopping in Camden is all about treasure hunts in antique stores and artisan finds in boutiques. For everyday basics, Narellan Town Centre has Target, Kmart, Coles and high-street brands such as H&M. For an alternative to retail therapy, relax at The Bathhouse with a sauna, steam room, magnesium plunge pool or hydrotherapy spa.

Walking in Camden — *Walking through the streets of Camden. (Image: Destination NSW)*

Where to eat in Camden

From gathering armloads of farm-fresh produce at the Camden Fresh Produce Market to selecting grazing platter supplies at Epicure Store, Camden is a place to taste, cook and dine. Begin your flavour-finding journey with high tea at the grand Brookfield House. For casual al fresco, The Fat Cat is a hidden gem serving tasty brunch-style meals to families and furry friends (it’s pet-friendly too).

For an elevated dining experience, Argyle House Camden is a unique culinary journey inside a heritage building, bringing together flavours, stories and seamless service. The carefully curated menu showcases local meats and seasonal produce inspired by traditional cooking styles.

More top Camden restaurants:

Barenz – buzzing dining room and cocktail bar with live music and delicious Mediterranean food.
The Dessert Lab – reignite childhood memories by creating your own sweet plate.
Chubby Dumplings – known for their juicy and flavourful dumplings, crispy in all the right places!
Arta Atelier – a must-visit five-star patisserie with exquisitely made and presented sweets.
Chechos – opening soon, Chechos is bringing their signature smoky Mexican flavours to Camden.
Jally’s – a local favourite for its vibrant brunch menu and edgy coffees like Dirty Turmeric Latte.
B85 Artisan Bakery – arguably one of the best bakeries around, Burnt Basque Cheesecake is a crowd favourite.

Pastries at B85 Artisan Bakery Camden — *Pastries at B85 Artisan Bakery, Camden. (Image: Destination NSW)*

Events in Camden

The Camden Show is widely considered a traditional country show with two days of fun in March. Held at Camden Showground, the event celebrates the region’s authentic rural spirit with agricultural competitions, carnival rides, entertainment and the obligatory Dagwood Dog. Camden Festival, a series of events by Camden Council, unites the community with a Taste Camden Food, Wine and Music Festival, plus a Kids Fun Day, Boots n’ Beats, and a Christmas Festival.

Where to stay in Camden

Camden Valley Inn – chic accommodation with a touch of country, set across five acres with its own cosy brasserie and pool, plus tranquil corners in the garden to unwind by an open fire.
Rydges Campbelltown –a luxury option just a short drive from Camden, Rydges Campbelltown has 24/7 reception, an onsite restaurant and fitness centre access.
Camden Hotel – this popular pub where locals and visitors gather for refined comfort food has nine luxurious suites in the final stages of construction, bringing a new stylish stay to Camden.

How to get to Camden

By car from Sydney’s CBD to Camden it’s about a 60km trip, taking just under an hour. Drivers typically take the Hume Highway (M5) southbound, exiting onto Narellan Road through Campbelltown and Narellan, to Camden. For a relaxed road trip, consider Camden Valley Way, a scenic route through picturesque countryside.

Travelling by bus is a two-hour journey, with commuters boarding the 895 bus from Town Hall in Sydney’s CBD, and arriving in Elizabeth Street in Camden. If you’d rather take the train, start your journey at Wynyard station and travel to Campbelltown station. From there, hop on the 895 bus. This train-and-bus combination saves about 20 minutes compared to taking the bus only.

Camden is a 25-minute drive from the new Western Sydney Airport.

Things to do in Camden: The ultimate guide