Older than Melbourne and 16 years younger than Sydney, Maitland (population 50,000) lies along the banks of the Hunter River, 191 km north of Sydney. Originally called Wallis's Plains, it was renamed in the 1820s after Sir Frederick Lewis Maitland, Admiral of the Fleet, to whom Napoleon surrendered in 1815.

Maitland's imposing architecture is a reminder that in the nineteenth century this city rivalled Sydney. Many of Maitland's heritage-protected buildings date back to the 1820s. Significant places of interest abound. Walka Water Works was constructed between 1882 and 1887 to provide Newcastle with a more hygienic and reliable source of fresh water. Classified by the National Trust, historic features are the pumphouse and the sandstone reservoir wall. This is a popular recreation area.

Grossman House (1862) and Brough House (1870), of classic Georgian design, form a unit with St Mary's Anglican Church and Rectory (1867 and 1881). Maitland Heritage Mall is noted for its rotunda, fountain and 1860 drawing of the town inlaid in the pavement. The Black Boy statue, erected more than 135 years ago, was originally a hitching post for horse-drawn vehicles.

Windermere House, believed to be the oldest homestead in the Hunter Valley, was built by convicts in 1821 and has historic photographs and equipment.

To the south are the Watagan Mountains, which offer hang gliding, rock climbing and terrific 4wd touring; to the north are the famed Barringtons, where you can self-drive or take 4wd tours. In town, Maitland is a great place to shop for antiques or arts and crafts.

The Hunter's biggest family market day is held at Maitland Showground on the first Sunday of each month (excluding January) and on the first and third Sunday in November and December. The Maitland Rockin' celebrates Elvis's birthday in January, and April is Heritage Month, when the city also celebrates the Hunter Valley Steamfest. The Maitland Garden Ramble is held in September.