Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Pokolbin

"This 182-hectare oasis is the perfect spot for a picnic and is a quick 10-minute drive from the city centre. The playground is awesome and the peaceful pond and symphony of birdsong provide a sublime backdrop for lunch. There are picnic tables and barbecues aplenty, but if all you feel like is a drink and an ice-cream, there’s an on-site kiosk."

"One of Newcastle’s favourite playgrounds is located at Blackbutt Reserve (Carnley Avenue entrance). Designed for children ages 2 to 10, The Bower Bird playground will keep kids happy for hours. It features a large climbing structure, roundabout, see saw, a group swing, 2 slides and musical instruments."

"The Gardens are a place for the appreciation of nature and peaceful reflection…but they are also a place for families and fun. Our unique events like Snow Time and our Christmas Lights Spectacular bring generations together for a fun day out and feature our beautiful custom-built rides."

"The Hunter Valley Gardens is a vast landscaped park with 10 feature gardens spread out over 25 acres. Take a soccer ball for a kick around, or simply let the kids run free. In school holidays the Gardens have extended opening hours."

"Transformed from a dump and abandoned sporting fields into a magnificent conservation sanctuary, this swampy centre is home to over 200 species of bird, including magpie geese, freckled ducks and egrets, and a..."

"For more nature, visit the Hunter Wetlands Centre in Shortland. It’s a great nature outing with kids with a playground and plenty of picnic spots. Just don’t forget the Aerogard!"

"Kids will enjoy splashing in the beachside creek and rock pools. Redhead Beach is home to Redhead Surf Lifesaving Club."

"A nice quick and easy fast food stop for all your Thai street food fixes. Don’t miss out on the $13 lunch menu between 11am & 2:30pm daily."

"The Duke of Wellington Hotel is located in Newcastle and offers free wireless internet. It is ideally positioned for those wishing to visit local attractions."