History
In 1912 Norman Lindsay (1879 – 1969) and his model and muse, Rose Soady, purchased the original sandstone cottage and surrounding 42 acres of native bushland and set about making it a home and artistic haven they named ‘Springwood.’
It was here that Lindsay created the etchings, oils, watercolours, pen drawings, ship models and novels for which he became famous. Over the years, Lindsay transformed the property by adding classical colonnades and a Roman courtyard to the house and embellishing the grounds with fountains and sculptures.
Shortly before his death in 1969, Lindsay bequeathed a significant collection of his work to the National Trust (NSW), with the condition that the National Trust acquire the property where he had lived for nearly 60 years, to become a gallery for the permanent exhibition of his work.
Today, Lindsay’s body of work lives on in the permanent collection, in changing exhibitions, and the dedicated display of his beloved children’s story, The Magic Pudding.
How to get here
Norman Lindsay Gallery is located at 14 Norman Lindsay Crescent, Faulconbridge NSW.
By public transport: Norman Lindsay Gallery is 90 minutes by train from Sydney’s Central Station. The closest train station is Springwood. From there take the 690C limited bus service, departing 8.55am, 10.50am and 2.43pm, returning 9.02am,10.59am and 2.49pm Monday to Friday only. Please check bus timetables for current schedules.
By car: It takes just over an hour’s drive to Norman Lindsay Gallery from the Sydney CBD. Take the Great Western Highway, then at Faulconbridge turn into Grose Road and follow to roundabout. Turn right into Chapman Parade and continue until you reach Norman Lindsay Crescent. There is plenty of street parking near the gallery. Off-street disabled parking is also available.
Plan ahead
Planning ahead is the best way to get the most out of your visit to Norman Lindsay Gallery. Here, you’ll find answers to some of our most frequently-asked questions about visiting.
When should I visit?
Norman Lindsay Gallery is a major art attraction in the Blue Mountains that is perfect for visiting all year round. The gallery features a permanent exhibition of Norman Lindsay’s artworks, as well as occasional special exhibitions. The beautiful gardens have something to see every season, from brisk winter walks and autumn colour, to lush summer picnic spots and a show-stopping wisteria arbour in spring.
How much time do I need?
To fully appreciate the splendour of the gallery and gardens, we recommend that you allow at least two hours for your visit to Norman Lindsay Gallery. If you’d also like to experience a short bushwalk, please allow extra time for this as well.
What should I wear?
A day out in the Blue Mountains can get chilly, and with both a gallery and gardens to explore, we recommend that you wear warm clothing and shoes that are suitable for walking outdoors in the gardens.
Will children enjoy visiting?
Norman Lindsay Gallery is very family friendly, and a great way to introduce your children to Australian art. While Norman Lindsay’s nude paintings are quite provocative, there are lots of other fun and fantastic works that children will delight in, from Lindsay’s sketches of cats to his classic children’s novel The Magic Pudding. The lovely gardens are also a big hit with kids and families. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.
Are there guided tours?
Take one of our free, guided tours of Norman Lindsay’ s painting and etching studio, see displays, and be introduced to the life behind the art.
Times 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Tours are 30 minutes long.
Tours are included in gallery ticket price. No bookings are required for these tours. For groups over 10 please book ahead by contacting the gallery on nlg@nationaltrust.com.au
Tour times and days are subject to change.
Tours are provided by our volunteer team dependent on staffing.
If the Galley is unable to offer a scheduled tour, we will notify visitors on arrival.
Can tour groups visit?
Groups are more than welcome at Norman Lindsay Gallery. To book a group visit, call (02) 4751 1067 or email nlg@nationaltrust.com.au
Catering can be arranged in advance for group visits. Please call to arrange with staff.
Can I bring my pet?
Everyone is welcome at Norman Lindsay Gallery, however we are unable to accommodate pets (excluding assistance pets). Occasionally we run special dog days where we open up the gardens to well-behaved dogs on leash – please check our events page for these one-off events.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
There is a wheelchair-accessible ramp into the gallery, as well as disabled toilets on site. The inside of the house is fully accessible, however some of the historic garden paths may not be suitable for wheelchairs. Please contact us ahead of time if you are planning a visit in a wheelchair so we can further assist you.
Can I hire Norman Lindsay Gallery for an event?
The picturesque gardens with Lindsay’s whimsical fountains and sculptures make a stunning location for weddings or special events. For more information, please visit our Venue Hire page.
For your safety
The safety of staff, volunteers and visitors is paramount so please take care when exploring the garden and bushland area. The original stone and gravel paths are uneven in places and may be a trip hazard particularly in wet weather. We ask that you take extra care with children when visiting, particularly the garden areas that have lookouts, statues and water features including the bush walk, ponds and pool.
