MHF 2025 - old favourites and new events

  Heritage Walks with Maitland Historians

Step into the stories beneath Maitland’s streets with two special walking events hosted by local historians. Each walk offers a unique glimpse into the people, places, and moments that shaped the region—followed by tea and good company in a beautiful setting.

Sunday 22 June (1:45–4:00 PM)

Two heritage walks concluding with afternoon tea at the beautiful Studio Amsterdam.  Bookings now closed, 

Saturday 28 June (10:00 AM–12:00 PM) 

Explore Walka Waterworks with guided talks and a relaxed morning tea.  Bookings now closed, 

 Join local historian Kevin Short for a guided walk through Maitland’s iconic east end.

Starting at the Catholic Cathedral precinct, this tour follows High Street eastward, revealing the stories behind some of Maitland’s most significant buildings—Mansfield House, the Town Hall, School of Arts, Masonic Lodge, the site of Arnotts’ original biscuit factory, and more.

Discover the people, events, and civic vision that shaped this stretch of the city.

After the walk, enjoy afternoon tea at Studio Amsterdam, 321 High Street, Maitland (entry from High Street).

GF, Vg, and dairy-free options available.

Join historian Michael Belcher for a celebratory walk through James Street and Horseshoe Bend – from its time as the rainforest domain of the Wonnarua people, through early European presence, to the vibrant residential growth of the late 19th century.

The walk begins near the Council Administration Building, tracing the history of High Street’s early businesses and architecture, before turning to the River – its changing course, its baths, rowing clubs, and sporting fields – and finally to Odd and James Streets, where we meet the homes, people, and stories that defined West Maitland’s first residential area.

Blending history, architecture, and personal anecdotes, this walk offers an evocative glimpse into a changing way of life in one of Maitland’s most fascinating districts.

🍰 After the walk, enjoy afternoon tea at Studio Amsterdam, 321 High Street, Maitland (entry from High Street).
GF, vegetarian, dairy-free options available.

Step into Maitland’s industrial and natural heritage with local historian Jim Smart.
Join us for a guided walk through the remarkable landscape of Walka Water Works—where history, engineering, and ecology intertwine. Discover the site’s rich past, from its role in regional water supply to its transformation into one of Maitland’s most scenic and beloved heritage landmarks.

🍰 Morning tea is included (GF Option)

  Sun Street Studios, with its intimate acoustics and focus on immersive listener experience, offers the perfect setting for this annual recital — a highlight of the Maitland Heritage Festival. 

This year’s program features acclaimed pianist Erin Sweetman, returning with a performance that blends European classical repertoire, a selection from the ABC Classic 100, with several works by women composers, and audience favourites including Steam Motion! by Russell Thornton, alongside works with a Maitland connection by Harry Hyndes and Guglielmo Lardelli. 

Erin will also be joined by emerging talent Amelia Scott, performing one of her HSC pieces, in a special guest appearance. 

A welcoming evening of piano, memory, and musical storytelling. 

 Read Erin’s full biography → click on image below