Flights from Canberra to Armidale

A Brief History

The New England region is teeming with history that you can discover firsthand while travelling from Canberra to Armidale. The region’s heritage dates back thousands of years with the Anaiwan Aboriginal people who lived in the tablelands around modern-day Armidale. Europeans first arrived to the area in 1818, and settlements began to pop up a couple decades later. Armidale and the surrounding New England region soon became hubs for farming and wool-production in New South Wales. The population boomed in the late 19th century when gold was discovered in the region, and Armidale was connected to other NSW towns and cities by railway. The history around Armidale is still very much alive, adding to its quaint feel. Visit landmarks like the Saumarez Homestead and Booloominbah historic mansions to take in the golden era of the region’s history.

Travelling with Children

Visit the Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is located on the University of New England campus and is open to the public on weekdays. It’s fun and educational for both kids and adults, making it the perfect excursion when you’ll be travelling on Canberra to Armidale flights as a family. The main centrepiece to the museum is ‘Lightning Claw’ – a reconstruction of one of Australia’s most newly-discovered dinosaurs. Other displays showcase Australia’s natural history through animals, landscapes, plants, and more dinosaurs.

Stroll through the Bicentennial Arboretum

The Bicentennial Arboretum is a nice place to take in New England nature without leaving Armidale’s city centre. It displays thousands of trees and plants, many of which are native to New England and Australia. There’s also a lookout point, aquatic garden with a waterfall, picnic spots, and a sensory garden to discover. There’s also a playground that the kids can enjoy. Wander along the different walking paths of the Arboretum to see everything.

Spend a day at Cathedral Rock National Park

Cathedral Rock National Park is just a stone’s throw away from the city and makes for a fun day trip while you’re holidaying from Canberra to Armidale. There are plenty of walking tracks, some that are more difficult and some that are appropriate for hikers of all ages and experience-levels. The Cathedral Rock Track is a good option – it’s six kilometres (3.7 miles) long and takes visitors past some of the park’s iconic granite boulders. At the end of the trail, you’ll be treated to stunning views over the peaks and valleys of New England. Day trippers can also make use of the park’s camping facilities to enjoy a picnic lunch.

Major Events and Festivals

Armidale & New England Show

The Armidale & New England Show has been going since 1876 and is the region’s longest-running event. It’s an agricultural show that celebrates the farmers, artists, and other residents of Armidale and New England. The event is held over two days and strives to educate festival-goers about the region’s agricultural and horticultural industries. Visitors can chat with local producers and also browse a range of stalls selling local produce, farm-fresh eggs, New England honey, and a range of handmade crafts. Book your flights from Canberra to Armidale in early March to attend the festival.

Walcha Mountain Festival

The Walcha Mountain Festival takes place over two days in early October. It’s held in the small town of Walcha, which is less than 45 minutes by car from the Armidale CBD. Each day of the Walcha Mountain Festival features plenty of market stalls selling both crafts and food, live entertainment, activities for kids, craft beer and wine from local producers, and a cycling race through Walcha. There’s some nice history to take in at the festival too – visitors can join a tour of the historic Langford House and view collections of vintage cars, motorcycles, and model ships.

Armidale International Film Festival

If you’re a fan of independent films, consider booking your Canberra to Armidale flights around the region’s annual film festival. The Armidale International Film Festival has been going strong for more than 17 years, taking over the city for a weekend in early August. 13 films from 13 different countries are screened as part of the Armidale International Film Festival. Festival-goers can choose to attend individual film screenings or book a ticket to watch every film over the course of the weekend.

FAQ

How far is Canberra to Armidale?

Canberra and Armidale are separated by about 750 kilometres (466 miles).

Do airlines fly direct from Canberra to Armidale?

You can’t fly direct between Canberra and Armidale, but Qantas and Rex each offer a flight option with a stopover in Sydney.