Since the attraction in Machattie Park opened to the public in mid-February, Delia has been inside for a peek on no fewer than three occasions.

However, she is among hordes of residents taking advantage of the free entry to view the magnificent display of bright and colourful blooms.

With the Begonia House expected to remain open until around April, now is the ideal time to inspect the flowers in all their glory.

“I’ve been meaning to get down there to see the begonias for the past few years, but I just keep on missing it when it’s open,” Delia said.

“But not this year. I read a story in the Western Times that it was due to open and decided I’d make a point of making sure I got there.

“It’s just magnificent. I’ve been here three times since it has opened and even took my parents down when they were over visiting from Rylstone.”

Delia said the blooms have been better looking each time she has visited the Begonia House.

“They just kept on getting bigger and bigger. They must be at their very best now,” she said. “Glorious is the one word that comes to mind to describe them.

“Really, the display is something totally different to what you might expect to see. 

“There’s so many magnificent flowers in there.

“It’s a display you’d expect to see in a botanic garden in a place like Sydney, but it’s right here in Bathurst. 

“Everyone should take the time to see it. It’s free and easy to find in Machattie Park.”

The Begonia House has been described as one of the city’s hidden gems.

Constructed in 1936, it is next to the fernery and just down from the Crago Fountain.

It is open from 9am to 4pm weekdays and 11am to 3pm of a weekend.