It is located north-west of Sydney, just two hours from Newcastle, and residents rave about its many benefits, such as plenty of space in, out and about the home, as well as beautiful views of parks and nature reserves.

Angus Patterson has lived and worked here since 2006, championing the area through his work with McGrath estate agents Upper Hunter.

He is excited about all the current and upcoming infrastructure projects in the town.

"The addition of the Hunter Highway and the planned Singleton and Muswellbrook bypasses will make us much closer to Sydney," Patterson said.

"Upgrades to the recreational and equestrian facilities at White Park also continue, while improvements to the Central Business District will begin, improving its appearance and functionality."

Then there is Colin Selwood, who with his wife Tammy and their son Jackson relocated from Melbourne in 2015 to open The Cottage, a fine dining restaurant in a quaint 1860s cottage.

"It's all simple pleasures," says Selwood, "like being able to park outside the shop and never hear the frustrating sound of a car horn, and seeing the stars at night.

"I love watching our son grow up and enjoy the same things I did, like riding motorbikes, camping, sailing and swimming in the river."

One way to appreciate the town's historic buildings is to dine in them, and The Cottage is a perfect example of the heritage rating. Situated on the main street of Kelly Street, it offers breakfast, hearty lunches and fine dinners with a focus on quality meats. For something a little more laid back, the specialist garden centre Plants on Main houses an inviting café and florist called The Common, perfect for coffee, sweet treats and fresh flowers.

Scone is famous for its equestrian roots and there are several world-class horse farms in the surrounding area. Skilled and beginner riders can trot around several equestrian centres and country lanes. Or, if you prefer to rely on your own two legs, the Figtree Creek Trail traverses the Scone Mountain National Park and offers stunning scenery. If this inspires you to go further up the heights, visit the Hunter Warplane Aviation Museum, which has an awe-inspiring collection of heritage aircraft from the First World War to the present day.

This highly rewarding duplex offers an intriguing mix of current and future potential, for which the DA has granted permission to strata and build three two-storey serviced flats. The existing units have three bedrooms, individual car parking and solar power and are conveniently located close to the city centre.