Cessnock, New South Wales

Located less than two hours drive north of Sydney, the area of Cessnock includes small towns such as Paxton, Millfield and the wonderfully named Bellbird. Originally, Cessnock was a service district for travellers and farmers but has built its more recent reputation as a mining centre. It is also adjacent to Pokolbin ­ one of New South Wales' most vital wine-making areas, so a short trip out of Cessnock is as far as you need go for a pleasant afternoon spent tasting the local produce.