Newcastle might not top your list of must-see tourist destinations if you’re heading to New South Wales but, I’d recommend you forget, if you had them, any preconceptions of a timeworn industrial outpost. Newcastle is no longer the steel town of old and you just might be pleasantly surprised with all that this city has to offer.

Located two hour’s drive north of Sydney, Australia’s second-oldest city has reinvented itself with an eclectic mix of bars and dining experiences, it boasts six great beaches and the laidback, friendly locals only add to its charm.

Exploring the city, you will find many public art installations, one of these is the Headphone Project on Darby Street, designed to provide an outlet for local musicians. The result is a unique piece of public art that is both creative and functional, so you can grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafes sit back, relax and listen to some homegrown sounds.

Newcastle’s museum is in the historical old Honeysuckle Railway Workshops and admission is free for general exhibits. At the entrance to the museum, painted a vibrant red, the large ‘Steelwork Hooks’ are a memento from the BHP’s former Steel works. Other artworks, such as ‘Foundry Frames’ by artist Rebecca Whan are located nearby. These installations are reminders of the city’s industrial past, while the sculpture ‘Constance the Camel’ according to artists Suzie Bleach and Andrew Townsend, pays tribute to the local migrant history.

Newcastle’s six beaches are easily accessible by car and public transport and with a consistent swell and wave breaks to suit any style, Newcastle is a popular surf spot and host to several annual surfing events. There are two oceans baths located at Newcastle and Merewether Beaches, a popular feature along the New South Wales coast.

Ocean baths are public seawater pools, built on rocky outcrops that allow waves to wash into the swimming pool. They offer a great beachside alternative for younger swimmers and less confident surf goers. From the city centre, a walk around the headland along the floating walkway, built in remembrance of the ANZAC soldiers, will take you down to five of the beaches and both baths.

On the hill above Merewether beach sits the Beach Hotel, which is a perfect place to stop for a lunch . Enjoy a cold beer from one of the 15 on tap, or a glass from the extensive selection of award-winning wines while sitting on the hotel’s wide deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Newcastle is compact enough to get around on foot, so take the opportunity to explore the cities diverse architectural styles ranging from beautiful old terrace buildings to seventies retro, modern designs and even a few bordering on the bizarre.

There is certainly no shortage of great places to eat and Darby Street is lined with many restaurants and cafes for you to choose from. If you enjoy super fresh, delicious seafood, then you must visit Scratchleys on the Wharf. The menu boasts scallops, prawns, calamari, hot and cold seafood platters as well a selection of steak, chicken and pasta dishes. No wonder this place is a local icon and hugely popular – it was packed when we visited! The food was outstanding, and the restaurant overhangs the water, with spectacular views of the harbour.

A hidden gem is the Terrace Bar on King Street, located behind an unassuming aqua green door, it’s easy to miss. The beautifully arranged downstairs area is in the terrace style, as you would expect. Comfortable old armchairs provide a cosy space to unwind but the real surprise and perhaps the reason for the bar’s name, is the outdoor rooftop terrace. Fairy lights and candles provide a special ambience and relaxing atmosphere with heaters keeping the space warm during the colder months.