Peterborough Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and other travel tips in Peterborough, South Australia, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Peterborough

Peterborough is a small town located in the Mid North region of South Australia, approximately 235 kilometers north of Adelaide. It is known for its rich railway history, stunning natural scenery, and numerous outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a quiet escape from the city, Peterborough has plenty to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Peterborough

Here are some of the top places to visit in Peterborough:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre: This museum showcases Peterborough’s rich railway history through various exhibitions and collections of steam trains and engines.
  • Peterborough Courthouse Museum: This museum tells the story of Peterborough’s early days, from the 1870s to the 1920s, through displays of old photographs, artifacts, and stories of early settlers.
  • Goyder’s Line Memorial: This monument commemorates the boundary of South Australia’s fertile lands, as surveyed by George Goyder in 1865.

Natural Attractions of Peterborough: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Remarkable National Park: This park offers stunning landscapes of rugged mountain ranges, gorges, and wildflowers. It is home to various wildlife, such as kangaroos, emus, and wallabies, and offers hiking trails for visitors.
  • Bundaleer Forest Reserve: This forest reserve covers over 1,500 hectares of native vegetation, featuring scenic walking and driving trails, picnic facilities, and camping sites.
  • Peterborough Heritage Walk: This self-guided walking tour takes you through Peterborough’s historical sites, including old railway stations, heritage buildings, and the iconic red telephone box.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Peterborough

Peterborough is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of the best:

  • Mount Murchison Hike: This challenging 7-kilometer hike offers breathtaking views of the Spencer Gulf and surrounding mountains.
  • Bundaleer Forest Trails: This forest offers various hiking and biking trails that range from easy to difficult, surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife.
  • Murnpeowie Loop Trail: This 80-kilometer scenic drive and trail offers visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of the Flinders Ranges and their wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Peterborough: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun things to do in Peterborough, from historical tours to outdoor adventures, such as:

  • Steam Train Rides: Take a relaxing ride on a historic steam train and experience the charm of Peterborough’s railway history.
  • Fishing Trips: The nearby lakes and rivers offer excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels.
  • Peterborough Golf Course: Enjoy a round of golf at this scenic 18-hole course that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Week-Long Itinerary for Peterborough

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Peterborough, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre and Peterborough Courthouse Museum
Day 2 Explore Mount Remarkable National Park
Day 3 Take a self-guided walking tour of Peterborough and visit the Goyder’s Line Memorial
Day 4 Enjoy a fishing trip or go on a scenic drive along the Murnpeowie Loop Trail
Day 5 Visit Bundaleer Forest Reserve and go on a hiking or biking trail
Day 6 Play a round of golf at Peterborough Golf Course
Day 7 Take a steam train ride and enjoy the scenic views of the Flinders Ranges

Food and Drink Scene of Peterborough

Peterborough offers a range of dining options, from cafes to hotels that cater to all food preferences. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Meat Pies: These savory pies filled with minced meat, onion, and gravy are a popular Australian dish.
  • Lamingtons: These sponge cakes coated in chocolate and shredded coconut are a delicious treat.
  • Sausage Rolls: These rolls filled with minced meat and spices are a classic Aussie snack.

Local Beverages

  • Coopers Beer: This South Australian beer is a must-try, brewed using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients.
  • Barossa Valley Wines: Peterborough is close to the Barossa Valley, one of Australia’s most famous wine regions. Try some of the local wines, such as Shiraz and Riesling.

Where to Stay in Peterborough: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Peterborough offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best:

  • Steamtown Heritage Hotel: This historic hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant, and a bar.
  • Peterborough Caravan and Cabin Park: This park offers powered and unpowered campsites, cabins, and caravans for rent.
  • Peterborough Motel: This budget-friendly motel offers clean and comfortable rooms, free parking, and Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Peterborough: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Peterborough:

  • Railway Memorabilia: Take home a piece of Peterborough’s railway history, such as model trains, books, or souvenirs.
  • Local Handicrafts: Visit one of the local galleries or shops and buy some unique handmade items, such as pottery, jewelry, or paintings.

Local Culture and Customs of Peterborough

Peterborough has a rich history and culture, which can be seen in its museums, heritage sites, and art galleries. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and you’ll often hear them say “G’day” or “Mate.” It is important to respect the natural environment and follow the basic rules of outdoor etiquette, such as leaving no trace and staying on marked trails.

Best Time to Visit Peterborough

The best time to visit Peterborough is between March and May or September and November, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. The summer months (December to February) can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C, while winter (June to August) can be cold, with some snowfall in the nearby mountains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Peterborough

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Follow the basic rules of outdoor etiquette.
  • Take a steam train ride and experience the charm of Peterborough’s railway history.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect the locals or their culture.
  • Ignore the basic rules of outdoor etiquette.

Safety and Health

Safety in Peterborough

Peterborough is a safe and welcoming town with low crime rates. However, it is important to take basic safety precautions, such as locking your car and securing your valuables.

Health in Peterborough

Peterborough has a medical clinic and a pharmacy. In case of an emergency, call 000 for immediate help.

Getting to Peterborough: Transportation Options and Logistics

Peterborough can be reached by car, bus, or plane. Here are some of the transportation options available:

Airports Near Peterborough

  • Adelaide Airport: This is the closest international airport, located 235 kilometers south of Peterborough.

Bus Stations Near Peterborough

  • Greyhound Australia: This bus company offers services to Peterborough from various locations in South Australia.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a good option if you want to explore the nearby attractions at your own pace.
  • Railway: Peterborough is also accessible by train from Adelaide and other major cities in Australia.

How to Get Around in Peterborough

The best way to get around in Peterborough is by car or by foot. The town is small and walkable, and parking is easy to find. If you’re planning to explore the nearby attractions, renting a car is the best option.

Where to Go Next from Peterborough: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions worth checking out:

  • Flinders Ranges: This stunning mountain range offers a range of outdoor adventures, from hiking and camping to wildlife watching and scenic drives.
  • Port Augusta: This coastal town is located 107 kilometers south of Peterborough and offers various attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and scenic trails.
  • Clare Valley: This is another famous wine region located 90 kilometers south of Peterborough, offering a range of wineries, restaurants, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Peterborough is a quaint town that offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors of all interests. From its rich railway history to its stunning natural scenery, there’s plenty to explore and discover. So pack your bags, and head to Peterborough for an unforgettable adventure.