The Lumber Yard

The Lumber Yard is a curated creative precinct, with a village-like atmosphere, that we love visiting each time we’re in the Northern Rivers. The precinct aims to foster a vibrant community of artists, designers, makers and merchants. Discover local jewellery-makers including Chandra Collections, galleries and artist studios including Alex Taylor and Galleon, Australian fashion brands ROWIE The Label and Assembly Label, as well as the fabulous vinyl store Flo Records. If you work up an appetite shopping, be sure to stop in at Woods Cafe for their wholesome breakfast and lunch menu, cakes and coffee. The precinct holds regular events that bring the community together – check their Instagram for what’s on.

WOODS

Woods is a delightful and delicious cafe that sits at the heart of The Lumber Yard. There’s great coffee (by locals Moonshine), teas, juices, smoothies, and elixirs, all designed to hydrate and nourish. The seasonal food menu offers healthy bites for breakfast and lunch, including light snacks or larger meals. The Hinterland Plate is a wonderful option that showcases local products, and the Turkish Eggs with tahini whipped yoghurt and chilli burnt butter has been popular since the cafe opened. Seating is all outdoors, with options on the adjacent verandah, under the large patio or under one of the umbrellas scattered around the venue.

Zentveld’s Coffee Farm & Roastery

From Bangalow Hotel

7.3kms – 7 mins (driving)

Zentveld’s is a family-owned and run coffee farm and roaster located in Byron’s hinterland that was established in 1993. Their coffee is grown, processed, roasted, packed, served and supplied on-site. The coffee plants are grown naturally, without the use of pesticides, embracing industry-leading regenerative farming practices, and the roastery is solar-powered. Join the unique and fascinating Crop to Cup experience to learn from owner Rebecca Zentveld about their processes, from fruit through to a barista-made brew. After the tour, enjoy a hot or cold cup of coffee (and maybe a slice of delicious cake) on the deck overlooking the farm’s rolling hills. Bags of beans are available to purchase too so you can ensure your next home-brewed cup is perfect. We purchased two of the 100% Zentveld’s grown & roasted offerings – Zero Mile and Matilda – which were both delicious as a cold brew or used in our Moccamaster filter coffee brewer.

Bangalow Hotel

Housed in a beautiful art deco building, Bangalow hotel is a great option for a cold drink or simple pub meal. Grab a spot at the bar, in the inside dining space, or outside on the generous verandah, overlooking the main street. There’s a big screen for those important sports games, pool tables, and live music and entertainment throughout the week. Unfortunately not dog-friendly! The Hotel owners are soon undertaking a large renovation of the venue, so check their website to confirm if they are open.

Cape Byron Distillery

From the Bangalow Hotel

6.4kms – 7 mins (driving)

Located in the Byron hinterland on a macadamia farm, Cape Byron Distillery is a family-run distillery producing award-winning Brookie’s gin, liqueurs and Cape Byron whiskey. Their spirits showcase the surrounding landscape, in particular the family’s regenerated subtropical rainforest. Brookie’s gin is infused with 25 botanicals, 17 of which are native to the property. Book in for a guided walk to learn more about the art of distillation and the ingredients used or do a tasting whilst relaxing on the balcony, taking in the views over the macadamia trees. Keep a look out for the resident koala in the gumtree outside the cellar door!

Common People Brewing Co

This craft brewery has a welcoming tasting room with large communal tables, comfy couches and fireplace, and outdoor deck, all housed within a working production house. There’s fifteen beers on tap, ranging from their core range of craft and sessional beers, to special seasonal and experimental brews that use local and seasonal ingredients wherever possible. If you’re not a beer drinker, there’s plenty of Australian wines and non-alcoholic options available too. The kitchen offers woodfired pizzas, burgers and share plates. With happy hour, board games, good tunes and regular events, it’s the perfect spot to relax with friends and family – including furry family members too!

The Eltham Hotel

From Bangalow Hotel

18.1kms – 17 mins (driving)

The Eltham is like the quintessential Australian country pub from your imagination. Hidden in the rolling hills between Bangalow and Lismore, in the historic town of Eltham, this charming pub offers modern pub fare, regional beer and wine, a real community vibe and amazing live music. Find a table in the dog-friendly beer garden in the shade of the jacaranda trees, or a spot inside the lovingly-restored 1900s building. The menu covers all the classics, like chicken parmy, fish and chips, steak and burgers. Plus daily specials that include small plates, fresh fish and vegan and vegetarian options. There’s free live music every Sunday afternoon, monthly jams including Irish folk and bluegrass, and an open mic night, plus regular gigs from Australian and International touring acts. You can stay at The Eltham too, in one of five beautiful guest rooms designed by Julia Ashwood (The Vista) that pay tribute to the bohemian women from the region.

You Beauty

This corner bar and dining room won the regional restaurant of the year title at the 2024 Good Food Guide Awards, so you know it’s good! The corner bar and dining room is an homage to the classic corner pub, with nostalgic Australiana decorations, vinyl soundtrack and a laid-back atmosphere. Chef Matt Stone has put together a menu of small and large plates highlighting local produce and designed for sharing. The croc toast is a stand-out – a contemporary Australian take on the Chinese classic prawn toast – and it’s served with an addictive chilli oil that we’d love to get a jar of! There’s cold beers on tap, natural wines and cocktails too. You Beauty is a collaboration between chef Stone and publicans Matt Rabbidge and Luke Sullivan, who own neighbouring Ciao Mate! and the nearby Eltham Hotel (which we also love!).

Bangalow Market

On the fourth Sunday of every month, Bangalow Market takes over the beautiful Bangalow Showgrounds, under the shade of huge camphor laurel trees. With over 300 stalls, you’ll find jewellery, ceramics, homewares and artworks from local makers and artists, men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, potted plants, health and beauty products, and a delicious array of international food and drink stalls. Plus live entertainment from local bands, musicians and performers. It’s a true feast for all the senses! Whilst there’s plenty of shade, Bangalow can get very warm, so go early to avoid the heat of the day (and the crowds!). If you miss the main market, there’s also a Farmers Market every Saturday at Piccabeen Park, 7–11am. You’ll find a range of locally grown fresh produce, including seasonal fruit and vegetables, eggs, meat, cheese, pasta and more. Plus baked treats and hot food too.

Cape Byron Distillery

From the Bangalow Hotel

6.4kms – 7 mins (driving)

Located in the Byron hinterland on a macadamia farm, Cape Byron Distillery is a family-run distillery producing award-winning Brookie’s gin, liqueurs and Cape Byron whiskey. Their spirits showcase the surrounding landscape, in particular the family’s regenerated subtropical rainforest. Brookie’s gin is infused with 25 botanicals, 17 of which are native to the property. Book in for a guided walk to learn more about the art of distillation and the ingredients used or do a tasting whilst relaxing on the balcony, taking in the views over the macadamia trees. Keep a look out for the resident koala in the gumtree outside the cellar door!

East Coast General

East Coast General is a great store to find a beautiful keepsake or wearable souvenir to take home with you, and keep those holiday vibes going throughout the year. The store has a carefully-curated selection of accessories, clothing, homewares and beauty products, with the aim of bringing functional beauty to everyday tasks. Products are sourced both locally (including their own in-house brand) and internationally, favouring brands and products that focus on longevity and sustainability. The store is located within The Lumber Yard precinct.

Flo Records

Originally selling new and second-hand records at markets and record fairs across New South Wales, Flo Records has since opened its first physical store within The Lumber Yard precinct – quickly becoming one of the region’s favourite stores for music-lovers. Their curated selection of records covers various genres – from New Jazz to Electronica, Soul to Hip Hop – with a focus on music that is diverse, innovative and noteworthy. The space is laid-back (we love the floor-to ceiling display of their latest records and giant disco ball) with the option to relax on the couch and listen to what’s playing in-store, or listen to your own selections through their headphones. The staff are always happy to provide helpful insights, without any rush. Flo Records also has regular in-store events – check their Instagram for what’s coming up.

Frank & Dollys

This beautiful heritage space is filled with unique hand-painted and hand-printed clothing. Curated collections are created in house by artist and owner Rachel Cooper, alongside her partner Joel. The elevated, ready-to-wear clothing features bold prints, rich colours and beautiful textures, ensuring you’ll stand out in a crowd. The label is committed to using sustainable practices and ethical production, meaning you can shop guilt-free!

Manu's

Manu’s is a traditional Italian old-school deli run by its namesake, the charismatic Manu Pagliarini. The store is inspired by the local alimentari – or green grocer’s store – from his childhood, in the small Italian village where he grew up, between Rome and Naples. Find delicious aged prosciutto, buffalo mozzarella, burrata, olive oil, pasta and other products perfect for your antipasto platter, all imported from Europe. There’s also freshly baked pizza and focaccia, filled with delicious produce and served with a cheeky grin from Manu.

Millar & More

Housed within one of Bangalow’s federation shop-fronts, Millar & More is a beautiful store that stocks luxury European and Australian clothing, accessories, jewellery, linen and homewares. Find specialist leather products from Parisian Jerome Dreyfuss, jewellery from Parisian house Vanrycke, and linen products from Belgian linen company, Libeco, plus unique glassware, silverware, furniture, and children’s toys and clothing. Upstairs, there’s two rooms of pre-loved clothing – always worth browsing for a hidden gem.

Our Corner Store

This contemporary take on a general store (housed within an old general store) is filled to the brim with clothing, accessories, homewares, kids products and even park games and garden tools. You’ll find items from local designers alongside international brands, all designed to be a part of daily life – beautiful, timeless and well-made. It’s a great store to browse in and you’ll almost certainly leave with a meaningful gift for your loved ones, or yourself.

Pony Rider

Pony Rider was born from a love of nature, timeless design, and sense of wanderlust (which might be why we love this store!). Their range of eco-friendly adventure gear and homewares are made from durable natural fibres and designed to last. You’ll find cushions, blankets, throws, bedding, bags and accessories that inspire bold exploring and intentional living. The brand also supports our National Parks, with fundraising events, and their Pony Rider commitment of 1% of all sales from their TNP range going to The National Parks Foundation.

Remote Projects

Remote Projects is a family business based in Bangalow, inspired by the wonder and vastness of Australia. Their core range is waxed canvas goods – including bags, swags, blankets and outdoor accessories – made using durable, quality materials for everyday use (and come with a ten-year warranty!). The waxed canvas is a fabulous fabric that ages beautifully, telling the tales of all your journeys in its patina. They also have clothing, hats, and some great sew-on patches, all designed with adventuring in mind.

Station Street Co-op

Station Street Co-op is a gallery and collaborative art space. The space was founded by artist Caitlin Reilly and photographer Hugh Stewert, with the aim of hosting and promoting contemporary artists and creatives from the Northern Rivers and surrounds. The venue has two exhibition spaces, with shows rotating regularly, plus a space for artists to create on-site. It also hosts a diverse range of events, including life drawing, music performances, and book launches. There’s works of all scales and budgets – a great place to pick up some beautiful art to hang on your walls at home.

The Lumber Yard

The Lumber Yard is a curated creative precinct, with a village-like atmosphere, that we love visiting each time we’re in the Northern Rivers. The precinct aims to foster a vibrant community of artists, designers, makers and merchants. Discover local jewellery-makers including Chandra Collections, galleries and artist studios including Alex Taylor and Galleon, Australian fashion brands ROWIE The Label and Assembly Label, as well as the fabulous vinyl store Flo Records. If you work up an appetite shopping, be sure to stop in at Woods Cafe for their wholesome breakfast and lunch menu, cakes and coffee. The precinct holds regular events that bring the community together – check their Instagram for what’s on.

Zentveld’s Coffee Farm & Roastery

From Bangalow Hotel

7.3kms – 7 mins (driving)

Zentveld’s is a family-owned and run coffee farm and roaster located in Byron’s hinterland that was established in 1993. Their coffee is grown, processed, roasted, packed, served and supplied on-site. The coffee plants are grown naturally, without the use of pesticides, embracing industry-leading regenerative farming practices, and the roastery is solar-powered. Join the unique and fascinating Crop to Cup experience to learn from owner Rebecca Zentveld about their processes, from fruit through to a barista-made brew. After the tour, enjoy a hot or cold cup of coffee (and maybe a slice of delicious cake) on the deck overlooking the farm’s rolling hills. Bags of beans are available to purchase too so you can ensure your next home-brewed cup is perfect. We purchased two of the 100% Zentveld’s grown & roasted offerings – Zero Mile and Matilda – which were both delicious as a cold brew or used in our Moccamaster filter coffee brewer.

Killen Falls

From Bangalow Hotel

13.4kms – 15 mins (driving)

If you’re looking for an escape into the hinterland, a drive to Killen Falls is a great option. Home to one of the last standing remnants of the Big Scrub rainforest that once covered the Northern Rivers, Killen Falls is an easy bush walk to a beautiful waterfall and rock pool – a popular swimming spot for locals. The viewing platform is a 330 metre walk from the carpark, providing a view into the swimming hole below. The base of the falls is a 1km return walk from the carpark. The walk down is steep, rocky and often slippery, so care is advised. If swimming, you will need to traverse over the rocks to the deeper pool closer to the falls. You can stop in at Harvest Deli in Newrybar to pick up some supplies on the way there. The best time to visit is early morning to avoid the crowds.

Minyon Falls

From Bangalow Hotel

26.4kms – 36 mins (driving)

Minyon Falls, located within Nightcap National Park, is one of the best hikes you’ll find in the Byron hinterland. After a beautiful drive through the mountains (which can get a bit bumpy in the last 2.5km section of unsealed road), choose between two trails through ancient rainforest to the base of the 100 metre high falls. The first, the Minyon Grass Trail, is an easy 2-hour return walk to the base of the falls. The second, the Minyon Loop Walking Track, is a harder 3–4 hour trail that meanders through picturesque and diverse landscapes. Decent walking shoes are recommended as both trails can get slippery in parts and if you’re wanting to get close to the falls, there’s a 250 metre scramble over rocks required. The base of the falls is a popular spot to swim, but be aware of the force of the waterfall and the white water after rain. If you’re short on time, there’s some shorter walks and opportunities to swim in one of the natural pools at the top.

Piccabeen Park

Piccabeen Park (‘Piccabeen’ is the indigenous name for the Bangalow Palm tree), is located behind the main street – a beautiful 2.67ha park that has been a gathering place for the local community since the 1920s. The park is a lovely spot to enjoy nature, with towering native trees and plants providing plenty of shade, and Byron Creek running through the middle. If you’re lucky you might even spot a turtle or platypus playing in the water or a koala in the trees. The park also has large grass areas, two playgrounds, an off-leash dog zone, covered picnic tables, bbq’s and toilets, making it great for the whole family.

Station Street Co-op

Station Street Co-op is a gallery and collaborative art space. The space was founded by artist Caitlin Reilly and photographer Hugh Stewert, with the aim of hosting and promoting contemporary artists and creatives from the Northern Rivers and surrounds. The venue has two exhibition spaces, with shows rotating regularly, plus a space for artists to create on-site. It also hosts a diverse range of events, including life drawing, music performances, and book launches. There’s works of all scales and budgets – a great place to pick up some beautiful art to hang on your walls at home.

Cape Byron Distillery

From the Bangalow Hotel

6.4kms – 7 mins (driving)

Located in the Byron hinterland on a macadamia farm, Cape Byron Distillery is a family-run distillery producing award-winning Brookie’s gin, liqueurs and Cape Byron whiskey. Their spirits showcase the surrounding landscape, in particular the family’s regenerated subtropical rainforest. Brookie’s gin is infused with 25 botanicals, 17 of which are native to the property. Book in for a guided walk to learn more about the art of distillation and the ingredients used or do a tasting whilst relaxing on the balcony, taking in the views over the macadamia trees. Keep a look out for the resident koala in the gumtree outside the cellar door!

Killen Falls

From Bangalow Hotel

13.4kms – 15 mins (driving)

If you’re looking for an escape into the hinterland, a drive to Killen Falls is a great option. Home to one of the last standing remnants of the Big Scrub rainforest that once covered the Northern Rivers, Killen Falls is an easy bush walk to a beautiful waterfall and rock pool – a popular swimming spot for locals. The viewing platform is a 330 metre walk from the carpark, providing a view into the swimming hole below. The base of the falls is a 1km return walk from the carpark. The walk down is steep, rocky and often slippery, so care is advised. If swimming, you will need to traverse over the rocks to the deeper pool closer to the falls. You can stop in at Harvest Deli in Newrybar to pick up some supplies on the way there. The best time to visit is early morning to avoid the crowds.

Minyon Falls

From Bangalow Hotel

26.4kms – 36 mins (driving)

Minyon Falls, located within Nightcap National Park, is one of the best hikes you’ll find in the Byron hinterland. After a beautiful drive through the mountains (which can get a bit bumpy in the last 2.5km section of unsealed road), choose between two trails through ancient rainforest to the base of the 100 metre high falls. The first, the Minyon Grass Trail, is an easy 2-hour return walk to the base of the falls. The second, the Minyon Loop Walking Track, is a harder 3–4 hour trail that meanders through picturesque and diverse landscapes. Decent walking shoes are recommended as both trails can get slippery in parts and if you’re wanting to get close to the falls, there’s a 250 metre scramble over rocks required. The base of the falls is a popular spot to swim, but be aware of the force of the waterfall and the white water after rain. If you’re short on time, there’s some shorter walks and opportunities to swim in one of the natural pools at the top.

The Eltham Hotel

From Bangalow Hotel

18.1kms – 17 mins (driving)

The Eltham is like the quintessential Australian country pub from your imagination. Hidden in the rolling hills between Bangalow and Lismore, in the historic town of Eltham, this charming pub offers modern pub fare, regional beer and wine, a real community vibe and amazing live music. Find a table in the dog-friendly beer garden in the shade of the jacaranda trees, or a spot inside the lovingly-restored 1900s building. The menu covers all the classics, like chicken parmy, fish and chips, steak and burgers. Plus daily specials that include small plates, fresh fish and vegan and vegetarian options. There’s free live music every Sunday afternoon, monthly jams including Irish folk and bluegrass, and an open mic night, plus regular gigs from Australian and International touring acts. You can stay at The Eltham too, in one of five beautiful guest rooms designed by Julia Ashwood (The Vista) that pay tribute to the bohemian women from the region.

Zentveld’s Coffee Farm & Roastery

From Bangalow Hotel

7.3kms – 7 mins (driving)

Zentveld’s is a family-owned and run coffee farm and roaster located in Byron’s hinterland that was established in 1993. Their coffee is grown, processed, roasted, packed, served and supplied on-site. The coffee plants are grown naturally, without the use of pesticides, embracing industry-leading regenerative farming practices, and the roastery is solar-powered. Join the unique and fascinating Crop to Cup experience to learn from owner Rebecca Zentveld about their processes, from fruit through to a barista-made brew. After the tour, enjoy a hot or cold cup of coffee (and maybe a slice of delicious cake) on the deck overlooking the farm’s rolling hills. Bags of beans are available to purchase too so you can ensure your next home-brewed cup is perfect. We purchased two of the 100% Zentveld’s grown & roasted offerings – Zero Mile and Matilda – which were both delicious as a cold brew or used in our Moccamaster filter coffee brewer.