Australia’s coastal capitals tend to get all the spotlight, but we’re making the case for places where things move a little… slower. Step back in time with a visit to one of Australia’s best historic towns.
What makes a town historic, you ask? Not just any old place (literally) can make the cut. The best historic towns are about age and atmosphere.
We’re talking towns, not cities – generally under 15,000 people – where heritage buildings aren’t just dotted around, but define the place. Think preserved streetscapes, pubs that have been pouring since the 1800s, and post offices, courthouses and churches from the earliest days of settlement.
Charleville, Queensland
If you’re looking for classic outback charm – wide streets, federation-era buildings and a strong railway history – look no further than Charleville. Explore its rich heritage at the historic railway station or the remnants of the top secret WWII base (operated by the US Air Force), stargaze at the Cosmos Centre, and extend your stay at one of the historic Hotel Corones or classic Warrego Motel.
Charters Towers, Queensland
Walking down the main streets of Charters Towers, it’s easy to believe it was once one of Australia’s richest gold rush towns. From the grand Stock Exchange Arcade (Charters Towers is home to one of the world’s first regional stock exchanges) and towering bank buildings to the old-school pubs with their classic verandah dining, Charters Towers may be just 90 minutes from Townsville – but it feels like a step back in time.
Braidwood, New South Wales
Many towns have a heritage-listed building or two, but few are heritage-listed in their entirety – that’s what makes Braidwood so special. Established in the mid-1800s, Braidwood has become a popular tourist destination – not only for its rich history, but its slightly bohemian feel, too. Browse the bakeries and boutiques, hunt for antiques, and soak up the charm of small-town life (and all just one hour from Canberra).
Morpeth, New South Wales
Established in the early 1800s, this historic river port has been beautifully preserved over time – even despite its decline with the arrival of the railway in the late 19th century. Now, a stroll through Morpeth isn’t complete without a visit to the old wharf precinct, a peak inside its sandstone buildings or a stop at the Historic Arnott Bakehouse.
Berrima, New South Wales
Boasting one of New South Wales’ most intact colonial streetscapes, and Australia’s oldest continually licensed pub (the Surveyor General Inn, established in 1834), Berrima is a must-visit if you’re exploring the picturesque Southern Highlands. Visit the historic courthouse and Berrima Gaol, shop for antiques and artisan goods, and find out why Berrima has been frozen in time since the late 1800s.
Beechworth, Victoria
What sets a gold rush town apart from the rest? Some Ned Kelly lore, that’s what. Beechworth was the site of Ned Kelly’s 1880 trial, meaning a visit to its historic courthouse and 30-plus National Trust-listed buildings is a must-do when you’re in town. Find out why they say that Beechworth’s paths were paved with gold, then explore its darker history with a ghost tour you won’t soon forget.
Port Fairy, Victoria
It doesn’t get much more charming than Port Fairy, Victoria’s heritage fishing village. Beginning as a whaling station in the 1830s, and becoming one of the country’s busiest ports two decades later, Port Fairy has retained more than 50 National Trust-classified buildings. Walk the wharf, admiring its whitewashed cottages, and take in the sea air at a waterside pub. The perfect end to a Great Ocean Road adventure.
Bright, Victoria
Once a thriving gold rush town, nowadays, Bright shines for a different reason – the vivid autumn leaves that line its quaint streets. Close to Mount Hotham, it’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for an alpine escape – especially one that includes cosy cafes, a strong brewery scene and rewarding rail trails.
Hahndorf, South Australia
Unique Hahndorf was established in the 1830s by German Lutherans, making it Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. Nestled near the Adelaide Hills wine region, its famous for its 19th century Prussian architecture and delicious German fare, meaning Aussies don’t need to travel to Hanover to indulge in authentic schnitzel or pretzels.
Richmond, Tasmania
Tasmania is rich in history, but the fittingly-named Richmond is one of its most famous villages – for good reason. Dating back to the 1820s, when it began as a convict-era garrison town (military outpost), Richmond’s streetscape hasn’t changed all that much since then. Pay a visit to Australia’s oldest stone bridge, one of the country’s oldest gaols, and the many cosy tearooms and shops in the town’s centre.
York, Western Australia
Western Australia’s oldest inland town – with one of the state’s best heritage main streets – York was a key stop en route to the 1890s goldfields boom. Set in the beautiful Avon Valley, about an hour and a half from Perth, it provides the perfect day trip destination: country pubs, wildflowers, and heritage stays if you can’t bear to leave just yet.
New Norcia, Western Australia
Founded in 1847 by Spanish Benedictine monks, New Norcia is Australia’s only monastic town. It was first developed as a mission, but has bloomed into a religious and cultural centre in the decades since. Quiet, contemplative and honestly surreal, its distinct European architecture and classic outback setting make it well worth the two-hour drive from Perth.
