Sutton Forest

A tranquil village surrounded by beautiful woodlands and farms, the Southern Highlands’ Sutton Forest is one of NSW’s most historic settlements. Explore the grounds of a grand manor house, taste wine at boutique cellar doors and shop for antiques. You can also take time to perfect your golf swing.

Couple enjoying a wine tasting experience at St. Maur Wines in Exeter, Southern Highlands

St. Maur Wines, Exeter

Heritage & antiques

One of the first colonial settlements outside of Sydney, today Sutton Forest offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Built in 1882, and now open for accommodation and events, the Hillview Heritage Estate was once the country residence for NSW governors. In May, Hillview hosts a sculpture biennale.

You’ll find more echoes of the past at the Sutton Forest Monument outside the Sutton Forest Inn, commemorating the British explorers who passed through the region in 1798. Enjoy a meal or drink in the classic country pub while you’re there. For antiques and collectables, visit the nearby Everything Store, open since 1830.

Enjoy some country charm at Mt Broughton Golf and Country Club. Reputed for being one of the longest golf courses in Australia, this site is home to gorgeous waterways and undulating greens. You can also stretch your legs at Red Cow Farm, a beautiful country garden set on several hectares.

Winemaker Mark Bourne arranging products at Cuttaway Hill Wines cellar door in Exeter, Southern Highlands

Cuttaway Hill Wines, Exeter

Cellar doors & cool-climate wineries

Sample some exquisite cool-climate wines at cellar doors such as Sutton Forest Estate Wines, Southern Highlands Wines, Eling Forest Winery and Cherry Tree Hill Wines. For more cellar doors, Exeter is a short drive from Sutton Forest, and home to Cuttaway Hill Wines and St Maur Wines.

Pool at Peppers Manor House in Sutton Forest, Southern Highlands

Peppers Manor House, Sutton Forest

Getting there

Sutton Forest is a 90min drive from both Sydney and Canberra. You can also take the train to Moss Vale and transfer via local bus, with the whole journey taking around 2hr 45min. There are a number of places to stay including farm cottages, boutique hotels, Hillview Heritage Hotel and Peppers Manor House, a luxurious country retreat.