By Train And Bus
The Morisset train station is the most convenient for most travellers, as it offers direct trains from Sydney without changing at other stations. However, Cessnock is a 40 minute drive from Morisset. A few bus services now do run each weekday at the time of writing. Travellers may prefer to take a train to Maitland, as a regular Rover Motors bus service operates between Maitland and Cessnock from Monday to Saturday.
Travellers may also reach Cessnock via Newcastle by train to Maitland followed by a bus from Maitland to Cessnock or by bus. Rover Motors buses travel between Newcastle departing outside Newcastle train station with a pick-up at the Hunter Street Mall bus station and Cessnock terminating at the Cessnock bus depot between Monday and Friday. It is not necessary to book a seat on this bus.
Rover Motors also runs bus services within Cessnock and between Cessnock and Kurri Kurri. A number of taxis also service Cessnock. Rovers do not operate between Sydney and Cessnock.
Keens Travel used to offer a bus service between Sydney and Cessnock, from Central Station, but has now shut down and only operates around the Tamworth area to Newcastle region nothing from Sydney.
Greyhound does not travel from Sydney to Cessnock either - they go from Sydney to Maitland but not into the winery areas. Hunter Valley Buses private bus company runs services in the local area, but again, does not offer a service into the region from Sydney.
Travellers wishing to explore Pokolbin Lower Hunter and the neighbouring vineyards should consider hiring a car or should contact the Tourist Information Centre on Wine Country Drive for information on vineyard bus tours. There may be some smaller operators based around Kings Cross that you could try, or take an organised tour with AAT Kings. A bit pricey but will save you a five-hour commute via woop-woop to get there.
One other option is the Happy Cabby airport shuttle service from Sydney airport to Cessnock and the Hunter region. If you book far enough in advance and ask nicely they can pick you up from Central Station on the way through Sydney city.
Please be aware that Australia has strict drink driving laws that are policed throughout Cessnock and the Hunter Valley, so unless you have a designated driver who has agreed to stay sober, you should join an organised bus tour.
In short, getting to Pokolbin, Wollombi Historic Village, and the Lower Hunter wine growing region is a total hassle if you don't own a car. Rent one or take a very good book with you on the train / bus.
By car
Sydney - Cessnock = 120 km
Canberra - Cessnock = 521.7 km