The Southern Highlands Explorer - Saturday 19th September 2026
Advertisement
The Southern Highlands Explorer – It’s Tulip Time in Bowral
Saturday 19 September 2026
Discover the Southern Highlands with East Coast Heritage Rail
Step back in time and experience the golden age of rail travel on an unforgettable journey with East Coast Heritage Rail. Travel aboard a beautifully restored heritage train to the picturesque Southern Highlands, visiting the charming towns of Mittagong, Bowral and Robertson, where stunning landscapes, fascinating history and unique attractions await.
Your adventure begins at Sydney Central Station, where you'll board our magnificently restored 1930s heritage carriages, hauled by classic diesel locomotives. Sit back and relax as we make an express run through Sydney's suburbs before climbing into the scenic Southern Highlands in unparalleled comfort and style.
Enjoy a relaxed and personalised travel experience with access to our licensed bar and buffet service. Our friendly and enthusiastic onboard attendants will be available throughout the journey, ensuring your day is both comfortable and memorable.
Choose Your destination
OPTION 1: Joadja Historic Site & Whisky Distillery
Alight at Mittagong Station and join a coach transfer to the historic village of Joadja. The 45-minute scenic journey takes you to one of Australia's most significant industrial heritage sites.
Your visit includes:
Lunch
A guided two-hour tour of the historic Joadja shale mining village
A visit to the Joadja Whisky Distillery
Optional whisky tastings
Afternoon tea
Tour Cost
Adults: $59
Children (6–15 years): $39
Guests may choose to bring their own lunch for a reduced tour cost.
How to Book
First, select your train ticket on the East Coast Heritage Rail booking site, then
Joadja coach transfer
Be sure to tick Mittagong Station as your destination
Then book your Joadja Site Tour, including lunch and afternoon tea, through:
https://www.trybooking.com/DNKPU
About Joadja
Joadja Creek was once home to the Australian Kerosene Oil and Mineral Company Ltd and a thriving shale mining township during the late nineteenth century. The remarkable mining technology that remains in the valley is of national heritage significance and represents the only surviving example of its kind in the world.
OPTION 2: Explore Bowral's Tulip Time & Fairground Follies
Disembark at Bowral and enjoy approximately three hours to explore one of the Southern Highlands' most elegant towns. Browse boutique shops, relax in charming cafés, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Tulip Time.
Tulip Time at Corbett Gardens
Located in the heart of Bowral, Corbett Gardens is the centrepiece of the annual Tulip Time Festival.
Featuring more than 80,000 mass-planted tulips, the gardens showcase an extraordinary display celebrating the colour, beauty and variety of one of the world's most beloved flowers. The festival also includes entertainment, market stalls and family-friendly attractions.
Entry tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. For further information and bookings visit:
Tulip Time Festival
Corbett Gardens is just 350 metres (approximately a five-minute walk) from Bowral Station via Wingecarribee Street and Bong Bong Street.
Walking Directions from Bowral Station to Corbett Gardens
Many private gardens throughout the Southern Highlands also open to the public during Tulip Time.
Fairground Follies(93-95 Kirkham Road, Bowral)
Why not combine your Tulip Time visit with a trip to one of the region's most unique attractions?
Fairground Follies is a magical collection of vintage fairground and musical attractions, featuring:
A beautifully restored 100-year-old carousel
Thousands of fairy lights
A magnificent dance hall organ
Violin-playing machines
Rare mechanical musical instruments
For more information visit:
Fairground Follies
OPTION 3: Discover the Waratahs of Robertson
Alternatively, travel to Robertson and enjoy more than four hours exploring this charming Southern Highlands village.
Special displays of New South Wales' iconic waratah flower will be featured around the station precinct, with waratah plants and memorabilia available for purchase. Local experts will be on hand to provide growing advice and horticultural tips.
Robertson is rich in railway history and serves as the rural heart of the Southern Highlands. Spend time discovering the village, browsing local shops, enjoying lunch at one of the many cafés and eateries, or simply relaxing in the peaceful parklands adjacent to the railway station.
With its welcoming country atmosphere, fascinating heritage and beautiful surroundings, Robertson offers a delightful alternative for those seeking a slower-paced Southern Highlands experience.
THINGS TO DO IN ROBERTSON
The Village of Robertson things to do website
RESTAURANT INFORMATION IN ROBERTSON
The Village of Robertson Where to Eat website
ESTIMATED TIMETABLE(To Be Confirmed)
Central to Robertson
Sydney Terminal - 08:03am depart
Strathfield - 08:21am
Granville - 8:37am
Liverpool - 09:05am
Glenfield - 09:13am
Campbelltown - 9:27am
Picton - 9:57am
Mittagong - 11:01am arrive
Bowral - 11:09am arrive
Robertson - 11:45am arrive
Robertson to Central
On the day, please follow instruction from your Passenger Attendant for precise departure timings at Robertson for the return journey. Timetabled arrival times for the return journey:
Robertson - 4:21pm depart
Bowral - 4:49pm
Mittagong - 5:00pm
Picton - 5:44pm
Campbelltown - 6:12pm
Glenfield - 6:28pm
Liverpool - 6:38pm
Granville - 6:57pm
Strathfield - 7:13pm
Sydney Terminal - 7:34pm
CARRIAGES, FARES AND TICKETS
Fares are available from Sydney Central, Strathfield, Liverpool, Glenfield, Campbelltown and Picton.
Fare Types:
Compare the different seating options for each carriage on our Seating Page
Interurban: MFS - sitting carriages with mostly four facing seats and a table
Tourist: SFN - sitting carriages with booths containing four facing seats and a table
Premier: SBN - spacious sitting carriage with four facing individual seats and a table
Group Compartment: XFS - a large compartment for up to 8 people to enjoy a private group atmosphere, spacious for 6
Bus fare to the Robertson Show is included in the train fare. Show tickets are to be purchased separately on this booking system.
Fare Categories:
Adult
Senior (Seniors card may be presentable on request at boarding)
Child (4 to 16 years) Infants who do not occupy a seat (and travel on their parent's lap) do not require a ticket, however you must call us to ensure their name is recorded on the adult ticket.
Group bookings welcome (minimum 20 passengers). Discounts available in Interurban and Tourist Classes.
Family Bundle Deal (2 adults and 2 children) is calculated upon checkout
Show ticket - discounted price of $10 per adult and $6 per child(under 12 free)
BOARDING INFORMATION
Our trains usually depart from Platform 1 at Sydney Central Station and pick up as shown on our timetable. Please check departure indicators at your joining station in case of platform changes.
If you are using a Sydney Trains or NSW TrainLink service to connect with our train, visit www.transportnsw.info or call 131 500 to plan your journey. Our tickets DO NOT include travel on Sydney Trains or NSW TrainLink services. Seating on our trains is allocated - as a courtesy to passengers joining the train at other stations, please occupy only the seats allocated on your booking unless advised by your Passenger Attendant.
Please ensure you arrive at your boarding station AT LEAST 15 MINUTES before our scheduled departure time. As we share the lines with many other trains, we cannot wait for late passengers.
BUFFET SERVICE
There is a licensed buffet service available on the train, serving hot and cold light refreshments including tea/coffee, soft drinks, scones and cream, and a selection of cakes and confectionary. Please note, our train is a licensed venue, so there is strictly NO BYO permitted.
We ask that you please bring gold coins and cash in small denominations for all onboard purchases to help our buffet team, as EFTPOS facilities are very intermittent on most trips due to limited reception. You are also welcome to bring your own food on the train!
A wide selection of high quality souvenirs is also available on our trains.
PASSENGERS WITH DISABILITIES, PRAMS AND STROLLERS
Strollers and prams must be of the foldable type and able fit in the luggage racks above passenger seats.
If there are passengers with disabilities in your group, please contact us at [email protected] to discuss options prior to booking tickets and we will assist however we can.
Please be mindful that our heritage carriages have narrow doors, aisles and walkways, and are not equipped with wheelchair spaces. Due to the carriage layouts it is unfortunately not possible for wheelchairs to be manoeuvred to seats from the entrance vestibules, so it is necessary for passengers to be able to make their way to their seats.
Walking frames must be able to be stowed, as there is limited storage space and items may not be stored in aisles or doorways in case of evacuation.
For more information please visit us online at www.echr.com.au or contact us.
Saturday 19 September 2026
Discover the Southern Highlands with East Coast Heritage Rail
Step back in time and experience the golden age of rail travel on an unforgettable journey with East Coast Heritage Rail. Travel aboard a beautifully restored heritage train to the picturesque Southern Highlands, visiting the charming towns of Mittagong, Bowral and Robertson, where stunning landscapes, fascinating history and unique attractions await.
Your adventure begins at Sydney Central Station, where you'll board our magnificently restored 1930s heritage carriages, hauled by classic diesel locomotives. Sit back and relax as we make an express run through Sydney's suburbs before climbing into the scenic Southern Highlands in unparalleled comfort and style.
Enjoy a relaxed and personalised travel experience with access to our licensed bar and buffet service. Our friendly and enthusiastic onboard attendants will be available throughout the journey, ensuring your day is both comfortable and memorable.
Choose Your destination
OPTION 1: Joadja Historic Site & Whisky Distillery
Alight at Mittagong Station and join a coach transfer to the historic village of Joadja. The 45-minute scenic journey takes you to one of Australia's most significant industrial heritage sites.
Your visit includes:
Lunch
A guided two-hour tour of the historic Joadja shale mining village
A visit to the Joadja Whisky Distillery
Optional whisky tastings
Afternoon tea
Tour Cost
Adults: $59
Children (6–15 years): $39
Guests may choose to bring their own lunch for a reduced tour cost.
How to Book
First, select your train ticket on the East Coast Heritage Rail booking site, then
Joadja coach transfer
Be sure to tick Mittagong Station as your destination
Then book your Joadja Site Tour, including lunch and afternoon tea, through:
https://www.trybooking.com/DNKPU
About Joadja
Joadja Creek was once home to the Australian Kerosene Oil and Mineral Company Ltd and a thriving shale mining township during the late nineteenth century. The remarkable mining technology that remains in the valley is of national heritage significance and represents the only surviving example of its kind in the world.
OPTION 2: Explore Bowral's Tulip Time & Fairground Follies
Disembark at Bowral and enjoy approximately three hours to explore one of the Southern Highlands' most elegant towns. Browse boutique shops, relax in charming cafés, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Tulip Time.
Tulip Time at Corbett Gardens
Located in the heart of Bowral, Corbett Gardens is the centrepiece of the annual Tulip Time Festival.
Featuring more than 80,000 mass-planted tulips, the gardens showcase an extraordinary display celebrating the colour, beauty and variety of one of the world's most beloved flowers. The festival also includes entertainment, market stalls and family-friendly attractions.
Entry tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. For further information and bookings visit:
Tulip Time Festival
Corbett Gardens is just 350 metres (approximately a five-minute walk) from Bowral Station via Wingecarribee Street and Bong Bong Street.
Walking Directions from Bowral Station to Corbett Gardens
Many private gardens throughout the Southern Highlands also open to the public during Tulip Time.
Fairground Follies(93-95 Kirkham Road, Bowral)
Why not combine your Tulip Time visit with a trip to one of the region's most unique attractions?
Fairground Follies is a magical collection of vintage fairground and musical attractions, featuring:
A beautifully restored 100-year-old carousel
Thousands of fairy lights
A magnificent dance hall organ
Violin-playing machines
Rare mechanical musical instruments
For more information visit:
Fairground Follies
OPTION 3: Discover the Waratahs of Robertson
Alternatively, travel to Robertson and enjoy more than four hours exploring this charming Southern Highlands village.
Special displays of New South Wales' iconic waratah flower will be featured around the station precinct, with waratah plants and memorabilia available for purchase. Local experts will be on hand to provide growing advice and horticultural tips.
Robertson is rich in railway history and serves as the rural heart of the Southern Highlands. Spend time discovering the village, browsing local shops, enjoying lunch at one of the many cafés and eateries, or simply relaxing in the peaceful parklands adjacent to the railway station.
With its welcoming country atmosphere, fascinating heritage and beautiful surroundings, Robertson offers a delightful alternative for those seeking a slower-paced Southern Highlands experience.
THINGS TO DO IN ROBERTSON
The Village of Robertson things to do website
RESTAURANT INFORMATION IN ROBERTSON
The Village of Robertson Where to Eat website
ESTIMATED TIMETABLE(To Be Confirmed)
Central to Robertson
Sydney Terminal - 08:03am depart
Strathfield - 08:21am
Granville - 8:37am
Liverpool - 09:05am
Glenfield - 09:13am
Campbelltown - 9:27am
Picton - 9:57am
Mittagong - 11:01am arrive
Bowral - 11:09am arrive
Robertson - 11:45am arrive
Robertson to Central
On the day, please follow instruction from your Passenger Attendant for precise departure timings at Robertson for the return journey. Timetabled arrival times for the return journey:
Robertson - 4:21pm depart
Bowral - 4:49pm
Mittagong - 5:00pm
Picton - 5:44pm
Campbelltown - 6:12pm
Glenfield - 6:28pm
Liverpool - 6:38pm
Granville - 6:57pm
Strathfield - 7:13pm
Sydney Terminal - 7:34pm
CARRIAGES, FARES AND TICKETS
Fares are available from Sydney Central, Strathfield, Liverpool, Glenfield, Campbelltown and Picton.
Fare Types:
Compare the different seating options for each carriage on our Seating Page
Interurban: MFS - sitting carriages with mostly four facing seats and a table
Tourist: SFN - sitting carriages with booths containing four facing seats and a table
Premier: SBN - spacious sitting carriage with four facing individual seats and a table
Group Compartment: XFS - a large compartment for up to 8 people to enjoy a private group atmosphere, spacious for 6
Bus fare to the Robertson Show is included in the train fare. Show tickets are to be purchased separately on this booking system.
Fare Categories:
Adult
Senior (Seniors card may be presentable on request at boarding)
Child (4 to 16 years) Infants who do not occupy a seat (and travel on their parent's lap) do not require a ticket, however you must call us to ensure their name is recorded on the adult ticket.
Group bookings welcome (minimum 20 passengers). Discounts available in Interurban and Tourist Classes.
Family Bundle Deal (2 adults and 2 children) is calculated upon checkout
Show ticket - discounted price of $10 per adult and $6 per child(under 12 free)
BOARDING INFORMATION
Our trains usually depart from Platform 1 at Sydney Central Station and pick up as shown on our timetable. Please check departure indicators at your joining station in case of platform changes.
If you are using a Sydney Trains or NSW TrainLink service to connect with our train, visit www.transportnsw.info or call 131 500 to plan your journey. Our tickets DO NOT include travel on Sydney Trains or NSW TrainLink services. Seating on our trains is allocated - as a courtesy to passengers joining the train at other stations, please occupy only the seats allocated on your booking unless advised by your Passenger Attendant.
Please ensure you arrive at your boarding station AT LEAST 15 MINUTES before our scheduled departure time. As we share the lines with many other trains, we cannot wait for late passengers.
BUFFET SERVICE
There is a licensed buffet service available on the train, serving hot and cold light refreshments including tea/coffee, soft drinks, scones and cream, and a selection of cakes and confectionary. Please note, our train is a licensed venue, so there is strictly NO BYO permitted.
We ask that you please bring gold coins and cash in small denominations for all onboard purchases to help our buffet team, as EFTPOS facilities are very intermittent on most trips due to limited reception. You are also welcome to bring your own food on the train!
A wide selection of high quality souvenirs is also available on our trains.
PASSENGERS WITH DISABILITIES, PRAMS AND STROLLERS
Strollers and prams must be of the foldable type and able fit in the luggage racks above passenger seats.
If there are passengers with disabilities in your group, please contact us at [email protected] to discuss options prior to booking tickets and we will assist however we can.
Please be mindful that our heritage carriages have narrow doors, aisles and walkways, and are not equipped with wheelchair spaces. Due to the carriage layouts it is unfortunately not possible for wheelchairs to be manoeuvred to seats from the entrance vestibules, so it is necessary for passengers to be able to make their way to their seats.
Walking frames must be able to be stowed, as there is limited storage space and items may not be stored in aisles or doorways in case of evacuation.
For more information please visit us online at www.echr.com.au or contact us.
Advertisement
Where is it happening?
Robertson Heritage Railway Station, Robertson Bus, Robertson NSW 2577, Australia, Kangaroo Valley
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
Host or PublisherRobertson Heritage Railway Station.
