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About The Big Guitar
12-metre golden guitar at the entrance to Tamworth, Australia's country music capital. Located at the Golden Guitar Complex with a gallery, wax museum, and souvenir shop.
About
12-metre golden guitar at the entrance to Tamworth, Australia's country music capital. Located at the Golden Guitar Complex with a gallery, wax museum, and souvenir shop.
History & Significance
The 12-metre golden guitar was erected in 1988 to mark Tamworth's status as Australia's country music capital, cementing its identity beyond the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival. The Golden Guitar Complex was developed as a major roadside tourist attraction and has become an iconic photo stop for travellers on the New England Highway. It remains one of Australia's most recognisable Big Things.
Getting There
Located at the entrance to Tamworth on the New England Highway. Tamworth is 390 km north of Sydney via the Pacific Motorway and New England Highway. Direct access from the highway with on-site parking.
Parking
Free on-site car park at the Golden Guitar Complex with good capacity. Wheelchair accessible parking available. Suitable for caravans and larger vehicles.
Nearest airport
Visitor Tips
- •Arrive early morning or late afternoon for best photography light on the golden guitar
- •Park in the dedicated complex car park to avoid missing the stop
- •The wax museum and gallery add another 30–60 minutes if interested
- •Bring sunscreen — there's limited natural shade around the guitar itself
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Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- State
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Free
- Duration
- 30 minutes
- Best Time
- Spring (September–November) or autumn (March–May) for comfortable temperatures. Any day of the week works; visit early morning (before 9 am) or late afternoon (after 4 pm) for fewer crowds and better photography light.
- Hours
- Open 24 hours. Viewing anytime.
Location
- Area
- Armidale
- Region
- New England
- State
- New South Wales
Good to Know
Highlights
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages
- Shade/Cover
- Limited shade
- Pram Friendly
- Yes
Food & Drink
Café on-site at the complex. Picnic facilities not specifically mentioned, but the complex is suitable for a quick break.
Features
Facilities
Travellers also visited
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Nearby
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Trails(3)
Attractions(5)
Toilets(3)
Groceries(3)
Fuel(5)
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