Living in East Maitland

The City of Maitland is the LGA (local government area) for East Maitland. It is close the central township of Maitland, Morpeth and the Hunter Valley, making it an ideal tourist spot and loved by locals. To learn more about East Maitland and the City of Maitland local government area, visit here. 

The area now known as Maitland was first surveyed in 1829 and was originally known as Wallis Plains. The areas proximity to the shipping port of Morpeth made it an ideal choice for migrants looking to settle (mostly Scottish, English, Irish, German and Jewish) and it quickly became a transport and commerce hub. The area became even more popular when the railway connection to Newcastle was established in 1857.

East Maitland restaurants use the rural and historical charm of the heritage Maitland to invoke a sense of nostalgia, accompanied by truly exceptional flavours from the Valley. Popular spots to eat include the Duke’s Restaurant & Bar, Endeavour Restaurant, The Valley Restaurant by Chef Jordy, and more. 

If great coffee is more your style, there are also a number of highly rated coffee spots in the area, including the OrangeTree Cafe by the River, Vintage on Melbourne, The Old Victoria, Maize Street Roasters and more.

For those who enjoy a weekend away, East Maitland is close to a variety of local favourites and tourist hotspots.

• For modern and mainstream shopping and services, Stockland Greenhills is a short 6 minute drive away!
• Morpeth is one of the Hunter Region’s most beloved towns, an historic inland port on the southern banks of the Hunter River. The heritage stonework buildings and small-town charm of its main street, Swan Street, make it an idyllic day out for tourists and locals alike – less than 10 minutes from East Maitland.
• Maitland Regional Art Gallery is less than a 10 min drive from the East Maitland area, and a little further up the streety you’ll find a myriad of pubs, restaurants, cafes, bars and patisseries to enjoy!
• The Hunter Valley is one of the Hunter Regions most famous locations. Check out the botanical Hunter Valley Gardens, a myriad of boutique and estate wineries, fine dining experiences, and exceptional restaurants – only 35-40mins from East Maitland.
• The Lake Macquarie region is popular for itsw waterfront views, restaurants, parks and playgrounds, and year-round markets! For some fun out on the water, you can also head to the Eleebana Boat Ramp. Only 40 minutes from East Maitland!
• Newcastle CBD is located 40-50 minutes away. Explore Newcastle’s diverse and delectable food scene along Darby St, King St, and the Foreshore. Meander around the Newcastle Art Gallery or head over to one of Newcastle’s famous beaches, the calmer waters at the Ocean Baths or check out Newcastle’s famous Bogey Hole.
• The Watagan Mountains have camping sites, hiking trails for beginners through to expert hikers and have been cherished by generations of Novocastrians. For more of the great outdoors, head out to the Watagan bushlands approximately 45 minutes away.
• Approximately an hour from East Maitland you’ll find Nelsons Bay or head an hour south to enjoy The Central Coast. Both are great holiday destinations, with amazing coastal locations and family-friendly activities.
• If you’re looking for something very different, like a big city getaway, Sydney is approximately 2 hours away!