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We are hosting our bigger and better event again this year on the 7 & 8 November 2026. Experience the gardens in full spring glory and visit our historic buildings and local artist exhibition. Listen to live music while enjoying a bite to eat or a freshly brewed coffee. browse the local artisan market stalls. Kids can participate in a scavenger hunt around the village and go in the draw for some prizes. It is sure to be a wonderful event so pop it in your calendars today!
Tickets are $15 and will be available on the day or online on our ticketing page closer to the date. We are pleased to announce a special exhibition of invited artists will form part of our festival this year. We look forward to having you visit our wonderful village. |
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About Rockley
Rockley is a quaint historic village, only a thirty minute drive south of Bathurst. After driving through green rolling hills you’ll come into a steep but lush valley through which Peppers Creek meanders. If you come from Bathurst, as soon as you drive into the village you will see our magnificent 19th century pub. Many of Rockley’s historic buildings are still standing, including the old steam flour mill (1862), two Edward Gell churches (1867 and 1869) and the Abercrombie Shire Council Chambers (1912) which is now a private home. Victorian homes are still prominent and some of their residents are opening their gardens to the public. Opposite the pub is Stevens’ Park where families come to enjoy picnics on the banks of the creek. All the facilities are here for a fun family day out including a playground and free electric BBQs. There are public toilets within the park.
Rockley is a quaint historic village, only a thirty minute drive south of Bathurst. After driving through green rolling hills you’ll come into a steep but lush valley through which Peppers Creek meanders. If you come from Bathurst, as soon as you drive into the village you will see our magnificent 19th century pub. Many of Rockley’s historic buildings are still standing, including the old steam flour mill (1862), two Edward Gell churches (1867 and 1869) and the Abercrombie Shire Council Chambers (1912) which is now a private home. Victorian homes are still prominent and some of their residents are opening their gardens to the public. Opposite the pub is Stevens’ Park where families come to enjoy picnics on the banks of the creek. All the facilities are here for a fun family day out including a playground and free electric BBQs. There are public toilets within the park.
Aims of the Rockley Gardens and Art Festival Committee
Primarily the festival is staged to raise funds to maintain and renovate The School of Arts Hall (1890) which is another of our 19th century buildings which is in dire need of repair. This building is the first architectural commission of architect John Job Copeman.
Restoration of the School has commenced in 2023 with the facade getting a facelift.
Our committee comes under the auspices of the Rockley & District Community Association Inc. who are trustees of the Hall. Our other aim is to showcase our village, its gardens, historic buildings and the artwork of Rockley’s growing artistic community.
We all have a great time over the weekend and we would love you to join in. To this end we have a program of activities including music in the gardens, floral displays, horticultural talks, wine tasting and good food and beverages.
Primarily the festival is staged to raise funds to maintain and renovate The School of Arts Hall (1890) which is another of our 19th century buildings which is in dire need of repair. This building is the first architectural commission of architect John Job Copeman.
Restoration of the School has commenced in 2023 with the facade getting a facelift.
Our committee comes under the auspices of the Rockley & District Community Association Inc. who are trustees of the Hall. Our other aim is to showcase our village, its gardens, historic buildings and the artwork of Rockley’s growing artistic community.
We all have a great time over the weekend and we would love you to join in. To this end we have a program of activities including music in the gardens, floral displays, horticultural talks, wine tasting and good food and beverages.
