Boorowa

Step back in time

In the 1820s, two prominent Irish families settled the area around Boorowa and the town preserves its proud Irish history to this day. Learn about this rich heritage on the Shamrock Trails, three heritage walks that wind through the town. They take in colonial and 20th-century buildings around the town, including the stained-glass spectacle of St Patrick's Catholic Church. 

The Boorowa Historical Museum is in a lovingly restored 1882 rammed-earth building on the main street. Displays are dedicated to the region’s Irish history and the wool industry. In the grand old Court House building, the Arts and Crafts Co-op showcases local produce and handmade goods, including many made with local merino wool. Don’t miss the Anzac Memorial at the top of the main street, a striking red brick clocktower built in 1933. 

Boorowa Historical Museum, Boorowa

Local produce & wine 

Boorowa sits on the edge of the Hilltops wine region, known for its boutique vineyards and cool climate varietals. Nearby cellar doors include Grove Estate Wines, Freeman Vineyards, Chalkers Crossing and Ballinaclash. In the tiny village of Murringo, the Taubman and Webb Trading Post acts as a cellar door for Trandari Wines – they also host regular whip cracking demonstrations and whip making classes. 

Grove Estate Wines, Young

Sample more local drops at the Absolutely Superb Bibliothèque and Occasional Wine Bar. The small bar brings together the owner’s two great loves – books and wine – and hosts regular talks from authors. The Marsden Street General is a stylish café set inside another of the town’s historic buildings, serving up great coffee, delicious sandwiches and sweet treats, as well as stocking local gourmet produce. 

Marsden Street General, Boorawa

The Cherry Capital of Australia, Young, is around half an hour from Boorowa. Visit between November and January to buy farm fresh fruit (or pick your own) or enjoy stonefruits, strawberries and more throughout the year. 

Streetscapes, Young

Irish Woolfest 

The biggest event on Boorowa’s calendar, Irish Woolfest is held on the October long weekend each year. It celebrates the region’s history and its world-class wool with a street parade, live music, Irish singers and dancers, pipe bands, markets, working dog demonstrations and the famous Running of the Sheep down the main street.  

Irish Woolfest, Boorowa

Getting there & where to stay

Booroowa is a 3.5-hour drive from Sydney, around 90 minutes from Canberra and just over half an hour from Young. Accommodation options range from riverside camping and caravanning to a farmstay, motel and country pubs.