How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 6 hours.

There is no direct train service to Tamworth from Brooms Head.

What is the best route?

The Gwydir Highway is the most direct and efficient route.

There are no major tolls on this specific route.

Is it a scenic drive?

Yes, it offers beautiful views of the Great Dividing Range.

Tamworth

Driving

Brooms Head to Tamworth

Updated: 26 May 2026

The journey from Brooms Head to Tamworth covers approximately 450 kilometers, taking you from the coast into the heart of the New England region. You will travel via Grafton and the Gwydir Highway before heading south toward Tamworth. The drive typically takes about 6 hours, crossing the Great Dividing Range. This route offers a dramatic change in scenery from coastal dunes to high-altitude plains and agricultural valleys.

Total Distance: 450 km driving distance; 320 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the Gwydir Highway takes approximately 6 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most practical and cost-effective way to travel.

Compare Brooms Head to Tamworth Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

6 hours

Avg Price

100-140 AUD in fuel

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

Pacific Hwy to Grafton, Gwydir Hwy to Inverell, then south to Tamworth.

The route involves significant mountain driving; ensure your vehicle is in good condition.

Travel Tips

Fuel
Fill up in major towns like Grafton or Inverell as rural fuel can be expensive.
Road Conditions
Check for roadworks on the Gwydir Highway before you depart.
Accommodation
Tamworth has many options, but book early if visiting during the Country Music Festival.
Dining
Try the local pubs for hearty country meals.
Connectivity
Expect limited mobile coverage in the remote sections of the mountain ranges.

Safety Tips

Mountain Driving
Use low gears when descending steep sections of the range to save your brakes.
Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of kangaroos and wallabies at dawn and dusk.
Fatigue
Take regular breaks to stay alert on long, winding roads.
Emergency Kit
Carry extra water and a first aid kit in your vehicle.