Woodford
Woodford Academy was originally an inn where people would go by train. Open the third Saturday of each month 10am-4pm
Logistics
Rail Trail Waypoint Four
The fourth stop on the Blue Mountains Rail Trail is a former inn and boarding school with an intriguing past – a multi-layered history stretching back to the 1830s. For a short time, Woodford was the end of the rail line but travel by train made it a popular location for people to stay and escape from the smells and heat of Sydney. Visitors can enjoy the spectacular sandstone buildings, step inside historic rooms, and hear the stories of Woodford Academy’s many lives as gentleman’s residence, boarding school, and most recently – home to a rare 17th century Dutch Master painting discovered in the artwork collection
Address: 90-92 Great Western Highway, Woodford NSW 2778
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/woodford-academy/
Open: Third Saturday of each month10am – 4pm
Phone: (02) 9258 0123
Email: woodfordacademy@gmail.com
Entry Fees: National Trust members – FREE
Adult – $12
Concession* – $10
Family – $34
Child (under 5 years) – FREE
*Concession applies for full-time students, seniors, pensioners and children aged 5-15 years.
Nearby Attractions
On the north side of the highway, there are some easy and scenic walks to Mabel Falls and the Transit of Venus Track. The south side of the highway features the Woodford -Oaks fire trail, an overnight walk to Glenbrook and a popular mountain bike ride with dazzling scenic views.
Christmas Eve at Woodford Station, 1899. Ladies signal for the train to stop.ntury Dutch Master painting discovered in the artwork collection
About
About The Woodford Stop
The Blaxland Phase (Phase Two) of the Glenbrook to Oberon Blue Mountains Rail Trail is an exciting extension of this scenic recreational pathway, incorporating the historic Wascoe Siding miniature railway. Designed to connect communities and celebrate the region’s rich railway heritage, this phase will link Glenbrook to Blaxland, offering cyclists and walkers a unique journey through the Blue Mountains landscape. The inclusion of Wascoe Siding adds a special touch, allowing visitors to experience the charm of miniature steam and diesel locomotives alongside the trail. With improved accessibility, stunning views, and a nod to the area’s railway past, the Blaxland Phase promises to be a highlight of the growing Blue Mountains Rail Trail network.
Features
Woodford
Th
The Woodford Phase (Phase Four) of the Glenbrook to Oberon Blue Mountains Rail Trail represents a pivotal segment in the overarching plan to repurpose historic railway corridors into a continuous recreational path for cyclists and walkers. This phase focuses on the stretch between Woodford and Wentworth Falls, traversing areas rich in natural beauty and cultural significance.
Historical Context
The Woodford to Wentworth Falls section encompasses portions of the original railway alignment that have been decommissioned over time. This area is notable for its proximity to the historic Woodford Academy, the oldest surviving complex of colonial buildings in the Blue Mountains, offering insights into the region’s past. The trail also passes near the Murphy’s Glen area, known for its lush bushland and towering eucalyptus trees, reflecting the natural heritage of the Blue Mountains.
Trail Features and Benefits
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Scenic and Heritage Experience: Users can enjoy a diverse landscape featuring dense forests, open woodlands, and access to heritage sites, providing both visual appeal and educational opportunities.
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Multi-Use Accessibility: The trail is designed to accommodate cyclists, walkers, and runners, ensuring a versatile outdoor experience for individuals and families alike.
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Connectivity: This phase enhances links between the communities of Woodford and Wentworth Falls, promoting local tourism and providing alternative transportation routes.
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Sustainability & Eco-Tourism: By converting unused railway corridors into functional trails, the project supports environmental conservation efforts and encourages eco-friendly tourism practices.
Future Expansion
The completion of the Woodford Phase is integral to the broader vision of the Blue Mountains Rail Trail, facilitating seamless travel from Glenbrook to Oberon. Subsequent phases aim to connect Wentworth Falls to Katoomba and beyond, ultimately creating a continuous trail that showcases the natural and cultural treasures of the region.
The Woodford Phase embodies a harmonious blend of history, nature, and recreation, offering residents and visitors a unique way to experience the Blue Mountains while preserving its rich heritage for future generations.
Blog
The Latest Insights and Information
about the Blue Mountains Rail Trail
All Aboard for Family Fun: Sunday, 6 July 2025
Chris Webber on the 13th March announced that, with the assistance of the Blue Mountains Historical Society, a Blue Mountains Rail Trail has now been created, combining 13 different sites throughout the Greater Blue Mountains, from Lapstone to Oberon via Lithgow.
All Aboard for Steam FunFest 2025 at Valley Heights Rail Museum!
Chris Webber on the 13th March announced that, with the assistance of the Blue Mountains Historical Society, a Blue Mountains Rail Trail has now been created, combining 13 different sites throughout the Greater Blue Mountains, from Lapstone to Oberon via Lithgow.
Glenbrook Historical Society has several guided walks
Chris Webber on the 13th March announced that, with the assistance of the Blue Mountains Historical Society, a Blue Mountains Rail Trail has now been created, combining 13 different sites throughout the Greater Blue Mountains, from Lapstone to Oberon via Lithgow.