There’s no escaping the traffic noise from the Pacific Highway. I can still hear it while I wander the paths that meander amongst ferns and through the forests that is the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens. The 70s blonde brick building that houses the underwhelming Visitor’s Centre, shop and Kookaburra Cafe, is surrounded by lush gardens and manicured lawns, and the outdoor area of the cafe is protected from the elements and insects by floor to ceiling fly screens. It’s inclement weather so I have the place to myself, both gardens and cafe. I can’t see any scones on display. Maybe they are frozen, as my scone is chewy from what I guess is from the microwave, and it tastes bland. The flavour of the average jam is overridden by the thick and rich cream, which is plentiful considering I only order one scone. The gardens are free to enter; however there is an obligitory $4 parking fee. There’s no exit without a token.

Scones: 

Jam: 

Cream: 

Tea: An assortment of tea bags served in a small pot.

Price: $$

Overall: A good place to stretch the legs without having to divert from the Pacific Highway.