Many of the original settler houses and other buildings have been preserved, and there remains much of the look and feel of an English village of the early 19th century.

The Pig and Whistle Inn, at the heart of the village, is reputedly the oldest extant pub in the country, built in 1821 by Thomas Hartley, a blacksmith who came from Nottinghamshire with the settlers.

Legend has it that it was nicknamed "The Pig & Whistle" by the men at the nearby 43 Air School in World War II.

While time has moved slowly in Bathurst attracting those seeking a more peaceful lifestyle, academics (Rhodes University is only 40 kilometres (25 mi) away), and retirees.

Bathurst neighbours the Waters Meeting Nature Reserve, home to many species of animals, bird and plants.