Queensland’s roses and rodeo capital, and home to quirky Jumpers & Jazz in July Festival Warwick has recently been recognised as one of the state’s best retirement spots by global travel publisher World Atlas. A pleasant two-hour drive from Brisbane, it sits on the bank of the Condamine River, patiently awaiting visitors to come explore its gorgeous sandstone buildings, such as the Warwick Town Hall and St. Mary’s Catholic Church, and historic streets.
Warwick’s median home price is roughly $590,000 AUD, well below the state median of $880,000 AUD, offering retirees an opportunity to downsize without compromising on quality of life. But that’s not all the town has to offer, nor is it just worth a visit from prospective retirees!
Things to do in Warwick
Known for its deep agricultural roots and ties to the wool and gran industries, Warwick was first settled over 150 years ago, making it one of the oldest towns in Queensland, and one of the richest in heritage. If you follow the trail, you’ll come upon the fascinating Warwick and District Historical Museum, documenting life in the are from the 1890s to the 1950s, and imposing convent-turned-guest house and event space, Abbey of the Roses.
If you’re looking to explore on foot, Warwick is great place for that, with five different walks you can go on to take in all the town has to offer: the CBD Walk, the Dairy Walk, the Railway Walk, the ‘Weewondilla’ Hill Walk, and the River Walk. They are all safe-guided, with information on the map letting you know how long each one is, where along the way you can find places to sit, and more.
As you may have gathered from the mentions of roses and the town’s unofficial title, Warwick boasts many beautiful rose plots, which get more and more lush the more you stroll towards the town centre. Some of the best spots to literally stop and smell the roses are the Visitor Information Centre, the Art Gallery and the Warwick and the Museum.
For nature lovers, the town easy access to Main Range National Park, including the Goomburra section, and the stunning Queen Mary Falls. You can camp at the former and sleep among the serene trees, waking up to the sounds of the birdlife of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest.
Queen Mary Falls, on the other hand, is one of the most accessible waterfalls around, with a short walk from the car park allowing you to gaze on the majestic 40-metre drop.
Those looking for thrills will have their fill, as Warwick is home not just to the famous Rodeo, held every October, but also to the Morgan Park Raceway, a premier motorsport venue hosting drag racing and other top-level competitions.
Foodies will also be spoilt for choice, with plenty of legendary pubs in the area including the famous Criterion Hotel, which doubles as an accommodation option, and the must-visit Warwick Hotel, a regular spot for comfort food, pints and live music! For something a little more upscale, Belle Vue Café is known for its scones and tea, and The Malt House is the rooftop bar to visit in Warwick. And, for a true hidden gem, Gardens Galore is a charming little garden centre, ladies boutique and gelato shop, that will make you feel as cosy as can be!
How to get there
Warwick is an easy 2-hour drive from Brisbane, via the National Highway 15. You can also take a coach, which will take roughly 2 hours as well.