Ancient Briton Hotel
New Zealand
Activities, Attractions and Things to do in
Founded in the 1860s following the discovery of gold, retains its gold-mining town heritage. It remains largely untouched and unspoilt despite the passage of 150 years. It has survived as a truly authentic 'Central' town, with an atmosphere and charm of yesteryear that has to be experienced to be appreciated. Explore the two museums in town or take a stroll and admire the historic buildings. Old gold sluicing sites can still be seen in the forest while walking or biking. Discover and experience gold-mining history in or even go gold fossicking.
- Hiking, forest walks, orienteering in surrounding forest and country side.
- Luge and skating at outdoor rink in winter. Golf, bowls and tennis are all in close proximity.
- Real Dog Adventures husky sledding tours in the Forest year round.
- New Year's Eve event, New Year's Day family fun day, picnics and games.
Curling
Curling is a passionate indoor and outdoor sport played by locals as well as most visitors. As Ancient Briton has been the Otago Central Curling club rooms for over 100 years we display their keenly fought silverware. has the International Indoor Curling Rink within walking distance in town. Curlers enjoy convivial evenings in the hotel bar and restaurant.
Otago Central Rail Trail
The Otago Central Rail Trail is a very popular tourist attraction and many cyclists come to stay while riding the trail. We are only 12km from Otago Central Rail Trail. We can arrange transport for you when you stay. Rail Trailers can also experience curling at the International Curling Rink in .
Car Clubs
Car clubs are regular visitors and you may often see their vehicles parked up at the Hotel and many curl while here too. The Annual Brass Monkey Motorbike Rally is held at Oturehua and bikers spend one or two nights here in front of our roaring fires, enjoying our menu while warming up.
Bards Ballads & Bulldust
Bards Ballads & Bulldust is held in the Maniototo. You may find Bush Poet and High Country farmer Ross McMillan (Blue Jeans) and master gold-panner, Bush Poet Des Styles sharing their passion for the Maniototo in the bar.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is popular in . There are many tracks in the forest with a wide range of difficulty levels to be found in amongst some of the best scenery in Central Otago. The 12-hour Mountain Bike Otago race is held in our local forest attracting hundreds of people to for the weekend.
4-Wheel Driving
4-wheel driving in the Maniototo boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in New Zealand from its mountains and gullies. Thrilling trips can be arranged through the hotel while you stay with us. You will experience a truly high country adventure with plenty of photographic opportunities.
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Other Activities
- Hiking, forest walks, orienteering in surrounding forest and countryside
- Luge and skating at outdoor rink in winter. Golf, bowls and tennis are all in close proximity
- Real Dog Adventures husky sledding tours in the Forest year round
- New Year's Eve event, New Year's Day family fun day, picnics and games