Get to know the best things to do in Woodford

Just over an hour outside of Brisbane lies Woodford; a quintessentially Queensland country town with a distinctive bohemian heart. Though far removed from the bustle of Queensland’s capital, Woodford is bursting with colour, character, and community spirit. 

From its wide streets and heritage buildings to a thriving local arts community and breathtaking natural surroundings, Woodford knows how to lay on the charm.

Soak up the town's unique character and rich history with this list of best things to do in Woodford.

1. Embrace the Woodfordia magic

An icon on the Australian festival circuit, the Woodford Folk Festival is the largest gathering of musicians and artists in the country. Held over six days in late December and early January each year, it’s a celebration of art, music, and culture, hosting 2,000 musicians, artists and performers, and drawing in over 130,000 festival goers.

Curious? Here are 9 reasons why you should experience the Woodford Folk Festival.

2. Walk the local art trail

Historically renowned in the town for its timber and cattle industries, in recent decades this quiet country town has lured the creative crowd, thanks to an ever-evolving arts scene. Local artists have bolstered the ‘Woodfordia’ magic, creating the Woodford Art Trail. Catch over a dozen artworks dotted around the city centre, including the beautifully adorned water tower, bollards, and public spaces. Hit the Visitor Information Centre at the intersection of Archer St and Margaret Street for more info

3. Visit Woodford’s very own military tank

A decommissioned military tank is, admittedly, not the first thing that springs to mind when picturing a quaint country town, but Woodford’s very own AS1 Leopard tank is truly something to see. Gifted to the Woodford RSL by the Federal Government in 2010, the 7 metre-long, 42 tonne whopper is a popular landmark in the centre of town and serves as a dedication to Australia’s service men and women.

4. Check out the views from the top of the Glass House Mountains

Searching for higher ground? Head 20 minutes east along the Beerburrum Woodford Road to get to the Glasshouse Mountains Lookout. Take in 365-degree views of the majestic Glass House Mountains, Caloundra, Maroochydore, Moreton Island and even Brisbane on a clear day. 

The adjoining summit trail is a leisurely 45-minute round-trip through both beautifully manicured gardens and rugged forest, and an excuse to stop in for a well-earned pre or post-hike coffee and cake at the beautiful Glasshouse Mountains Lookout Café – perfectly situated to admire the breathtaking mountain range from the pretty back deck.

5. Hit Woodford’s hidden heritage trail

Deep in rugged Bellthorpe National Park hides a quintessential bit of Woodford’s history; the Brandon Saw Mill. Dating back to the early 1900s, the skeleton of the old mill can still be seen along the West Bellford Road, near Stony Creek, having been carefully preserved for passing hikers and visitors to enjoy.

6. BMX through the bush

Prefer two wheels over foot? Nestled deep in the Beerburrum State Forest just before the Lookout turnoff, Hennessey Hill Mountain Bike Trail has several free downhill trails, jumps and more challenging routes to suit all levels of BMX riders.

7. Embrace your inner muster at the Woodford Rodeo

Showcasing the town’s farming and agricultural roots, the annual Woodford Rodeo draws in crowds from right across the state – and is bursting with family-friendly fun. Held at the Woodford Showgrounds, check out animal presentations, barrel racing, market stalls, food trucks, ute competition and the official rodeo muster with a roster jam-packed with music and entertainment that goes on well into the evening. There’s even a ‘best mullet’ competition back by popular demand, for those rocking the iconic ‘business up top, party at the back’ hairstyle.

8. Hike Mount Mee

One of the best reasons to visit Woodford is its proximity to some of Southeast Queensland’s best hikes and walks.  Just 20 minutes south of town, tackle Mount Mee’s summit for panoramic views over the entire Moreton Bay Region and D’Aguilar Range. The adjoining Mount Mee state forest is revered for its challenging walking tracks through lush rainforest, boasting picnic areas and camping sites in a pretty spectacular backdrop.

9. Ride the old Woodford ‘Durundur’ Heritage Railway

Any trainspotters or train enthusiasts visiting Woodford should make a beeline for the local ‘Durundur’ Heritage Railway. Home to the Australian Narrow Gauge Railway Museum Society, this humble spot boasts one of Australia’s largest narrow gauge steam locomotives.

Time your visit on the 1st or 3rd Sunday of the month and you’ll be able to see these incredible steam trains in action – even copping a ride along the old rail line one the Durundur Railway from its Margaret Street location to Storey Brook and back.

10. Check out the Woodford Museum

Rich with pieces and installations depicting the history of Woodford’s settlement past, the Woodford Museum punches well above its weight for a small, regional gallery. Check out perfect miniatures of the town’s historical buildings by artists Mick and Val Draper and be transported back in time with the museum’s extensive photographic display of everyday life in the region. If you fancy a bit of Woodford’s bohemian spirit in your home, works by local artists and member of the Woodford Community Art Group are also on display and available to purchase in the adjoining gallery, Art on Woodford.

11. Sample the local varietals

A visit to the country wouldn’t be right without tasting a drop of the local varietals. Nearby Ocean View Estates is a picturesque spot for a tour of the vineyard & winery, where you can taste handcrafted wines and graze on a fine selection of cheeses as you go.

12. Pick up handmade treats at the local markets

The third Sunday of the month is market day in Woodford, seeing the local Country Markets pop up in Binambi Place (along Woodford’s main high street). Pick up locally made jams and relishes, pastries and pies, and browse the antiques and plant stalls for a bargain.

13. Glamp on Lake Gkula

Wake to the sounds Woodford’s flora and fauna while kicking back in luxurious glamping digs beside Lake Gkula. Set amongst 500 acres of pristine woodland at Woodfordia, a former dairy farm now a regenerated subtropical rainforest located just outside of town, this beautiful camping spot features both camping and glamping accommodation options, a café, tea house, general store and bar on the premises, meaning more quality time in Mother Nature, less time scuttling back and forth to the local supermarket. 

Open for bookings during the Woodford Folk Festival and select weekends over Easter and September school holidays, enjoy bushwalking, bike rides and lake swims in your very own slice of country paradise. 

While you're in the area, get to know Redcliffe Peninsula, the seaside escape from Brisbane City.