Exeter, New South Wales – A village where English heritage meets Southern Highlands charm

Exeter is a place that feels instantly timeless. Founded by early settler James Badgery—who arrived in Sydney in 1799 and later named his farm “Exeter” after the English town of his childhood—the village carries a sense of heritage that still shapes its identity today. Over time, the name extended to the surrounding district, and with it came a character defined by quiet country lanes, rolling green hills, cool mists and the gentle soundtrack of birdsong drifting through towering trees.

What makes Exeter special is not just its history, but the atmosphere it creates. This is a village where the pace slows, where old‑world charm is not a theme but a lived experience, and where the landscape invites you to breathe deeply, wander slowly and reconnect with the simple pleasures of rural life.

Why Visit Exeter

A premium Southern Highlands escape for travellers seeking tranquility, beauty and heritage

Exeter offers a rare blend of English‑inspired village charm and Australian countryside warmth. Travellers are drawn here for:

• Peace and seclusion — winding lanes, misty mornings and quiet corners perfect for reflection
• Heritage character — stone churches, historic estates and a village green that feels lifted from rural England
• Cool‑climate beauty — lush gardens, crisp air and seasonal colour from autumn leaves to spring blossoms
• Proximity to major towns — enjoy serenity while being minutes from Bundanoon, Moss Vale and Bowral

Whether you’re a weekend wanderer, a garden lover, a history enthusiast or someone craving a slower rhythm, Exeter offers a premium countryside experience that feels both grounding and indulgent.

Things to Do in Exeter

Stroll the Village and Explore Local Heritage

Walk through tree‑lined streets, admire heritage cottages and visit the iconic Exeter General Store, a beloved hub for gourmet food, artisan goods and excellent coffee.

Visit St Aidan’s Church

This charming stone church, surrounded by manicured grounds, is one of the village’s most photographed landmarks and a peaceful place to pause.

Discover Cool‑Climate Gardens

Exeter is known for its grand private gardens, many of which open seasonally for festivals and charity events. Expect sweeping lawns, hedges, roses and classic English landscaping.

Cycle or Drive Scenic Country Roads

The rolling hills around Exeter offer some of the most picturesque routes in the Southern Highlands—ideal for leisurely drives, cycling or photography.

Explore Nearby Villages

Use Exeter as a base to discover Bundanoon, Moss Vale and Bowral.

How to Get There

Exeter is conveniently located in the heart of the Southern Highlands:

• By Car:
  Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from Sydney and 1 hour 30 minutes from Canberra via the Hume Highway.
• By Train:
  Exeter has its own historic railway station on the Southern Highlands Line, offering a scenic and stress‑free journey from Sydney or Goulburn.
• By Air:
  The closest major airport is Sydney Airport, with regional options available in nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

Exeter is beautiful year‑round, each season offering its own charm:

• Autumn: Fiery foliage and crisp, golden days
• Winter: Misty mornings, open fires and atmospheric countryside
• Spring: Blossoms, gardens in full bloom and vibrant greenery
• Summer: Mild temperatures and long, leisurely afternoons

For garden lovers, spring and autumn are particularly magical.

The Essence of Exeter

Exeter is more than a destination—it’s a feeling. A sense of stepping into a gentler world where nature sets the pace and history whispers through every lane. It’s a place to unwind, reconnect and savour the quiet beauty of the Southern Highlands.