Train
Driving
Soldiers Point to Scone
Updated: 28 May 2026
Traveling from Soldiers Point to Scone involves a 200-kilometer journey through the heart of the Hunter Valley. You can drive via the New England Highway, which takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can combine a local bus to Newcastle with the Hunter Line train to Scone Station. Scone is famous as the 'Horse Capital of Australia' and serves as a major hub for the thoroughbred breeding industry. The route offers a mix of coastal scenery and inland pastoral landscapes.
Total Distance: 200 km driving distance; 160 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest method, taking roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes depending on traffic.
Cheapest Way
The train is the most economical option, costing approximately 30 AUD when using an Opal card.
Compare Soldiers Point to Scone Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 hours | 2 hours 40 mins |
| Avg Price | 25-35 AUD | 45-60 AUD in fuel |
| Operator | NSW TrainLink | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | Bus from Soldiers Point to Newcastle Interchange, then Hunter Line train to Scone Station. | Take Nelson Bay Road to the Pacific Highway, then follow the New England Highway (A15) north. |
| Tip | Book your train ticket via the Transport for NSW website or use an Opal card. | The New England Highway can be busy; plan your departure to avoid Newcastle peak hour traffic. |
Travel Tips
-
Opal CardEnsure you have a topped-up Opal card for the bus and train segments of your journey.
-
Train ScheduleCheck the NSW TrainLink timetable in advance as services to Scone are less frequent than suburban lines.
-
AccommodationBook your stay in advance if visiting during the Scone Cup or major horse racing events.
-
DiningTry the local cafes in Scone's main street for fresh, locally sourced produce.
-
ConnectivityExpect good mobile coverage along the New England Highway, but it may drop in deep valleys.
Safety Tips
-
Level CrossingsAlways obey signals at railway crossings on rural roads near Scone.
-
OvertakingOnly overtake on the New England Highway where there are clear passing lanes.
-
FatigueTake a break at the rest areas in Muswellbrook if you are driving from the coast.
-
EmergencyKeep a physical map in your car as a backup for GPS navigation in remote areas.
People Also Ask
-
Is Scone worth visiting?Yes, it is a beautiful town known for its horse breeding heritage and proximity to Lake Glenbawn.
-
How far is Scone from Newcastle?Scone is approximately 170 kilometers from Newcastle, taking about 2 hours by car.
-
Can I take a train to Scone?Yes, NSW TrainLink operates the Hunter Line which terminates at Scone Station.
-
What is the best time to visit?Spring is widely considered the best time due to the mild weather and blooming gardens.
-
Are there taxis in Scone?Yes, local taxi services are available, though it is best to book ahead for late-night travel.
Quick Info
- From Soldiers Point, New South Wales, Australia
- To Scone, New South Wales, Australia
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
Spring (September to November) is ideal for visiting Scone when the gardens are in bloom and the weather is pleasant.
Things to Do in Scone
1
Scone Horse Festival
If visiting in May, experience the vibrant festival celebrating the local thoroughbred industry with parades and events.
2
Burning Mountain Nature Reserve
Hike to see the natural coal seam fire that has been burning for thousands of years near Wingen.
3
Lake Glenbawn
Enjoy water sports, fishing, and camping at this large dam located just a short drive from Scone.
4
Scone and Upper Hunter Historical Society
Visit the museum to learn about the early colonial history and the development of the local pastoral industry.
Tags
Soldiers Point to Scone
Scone NSW travel
Hunter Valley road trip
Newcastle to Scone train
driving to Scone
Horse Capital of Australia
NSW regional travel
New England Highway route
