about the area

The river port township of Morpeth is steeped in history with European settlement dating from the early 1800’s. Known also by its aboriginal name “Illalung”, Morpeth formed one third of a land grant made to Lieutenant Edward Charles Close by Governor Brisbane in 1821.

Influenced by its desirable location on the Hunter River and awareness of the areas immense potential, Morpeth quickly evolved from a rugged bush base into a frontier town and by the 1830’s was a heavily frequented river port.

During its time as a major industrial and agricultural hub Morpeth helped to lay the foundation for the development of the entire Hunter Valley.

The wide, sandstone gutter streets lined with original sandstone heritage buildings, create an ambience of old-world charm, which is so unique and a retreat away from today’s fast paced world of commercial shopping complexes.

Today Morpeth is more than a popular tourist destination and place to visit to admire the century old buildings. Morpeth is recognised as a thriving township with a reputation for a diverse range of shopping and dining experiences.

Investment in and around Morpeth in the property market has proved very lucrative for local and out of town developers. A combination of capital growth and high popularity in Morpeth and her surrounding suburbs has ignited the area with building activity and development.

Under construction at present are several new estates designed specifically for life style living. Grandview Manor on the hill tops of Morpeth and Dunmore Park on the outer suburbs of Morpeth is proving most popular with young couples and retiring baby boomers.

The majority of businesses are owner-operated and their individuality makes shopping a real personal experience. Discover the diversity of retail shops which offer stylish, high fashion for business, pleasure or special events, home décor, original artworks, and gifts for all occasions. Throughout weekdays and weekends, the boutiques and decorating stores are a popular hunt with ladies who enjoy not only each others company but a chance to have a relaxing browse and make that all important purchase. Often the accompanying men folk can be found patiently taking up refuge in the nearby pub with a cold ale or retreating to one of the bench seats dotting the shopping strip.

If socialising is your reason for Morpeth, then the choices are limitless. The ambience of alfresco dining is offered with a chance to watch the passing parade or reflect on the peaceful aspect of the riverbanks.

Corporate and weekend visitors find Morpeth the perfect place to unwind away from city life, yet very central. First impressions count so when it comes to that romantic escape or ultimate settlement Morpeth is only 2 hours from Sydney, 30 minutes from Newcastle, 40 minutes from Port Stephens & Pokolbin wine country. Morpeth is gaining the reputation of being the place to be.