Our History

The History of Blackheath

On 15 May 1815, Govenor McQuarie named a beautiful outlook Hounslow. Upon his descent from the Blue Mountains, he renamed the location Blackheath.

Blackheath has had an interesting history ranging from opening a brewery. The brewery unfortunately closed, reportedly due to the locals drinking the profits! Blackheath also had one of the first cinemas in the mountains. Upon its closure, the property was converted into an antique centre, which remains open to this day.

The main road through Blackheath is called Govetts Leap Road. The myth surrounding this name is a bandit robbed one too many banks and was galloping away from the Sherriff. Knowing that he was not going to evade capture and was facing the death penalty, he rode to the end of Blackheath’s main road and jumped off the edge; Govett’s Leap Road.

In reality, the story is less dramatic.

Blackheath Chamber helps you find the best Blue Mountains attractions, accommodation in Blackheath & things to do in the Blue Mountains. As a supporter of Blue Mountains tourism we can also help you find the best Blackheath bed & breakfast and Blue Mountains cabins. This site is a source of information, please contact the companies directly, not through this site, as we do not organise, nor take bookings on behalf of any company.