Tours, Trails & Guides
Gawler’s walking trails are designed for self-discovery but guided tours are also available. Both options provide journeys past significant heritage architecture as well as through the beautiful parks, gardens and reserves that line the river banks. Printed guides for the following trails and tours are available from the Visitor Information Centre, 2 Lyndoch Road, Gawler.
Tours and Trails
The Gawler Bike Hub is a perfect starting point for your cycling journey utilising the Gawler network of cycle paths or to further explore the Barossa region and is located at the Gawler Visitor Information Centre, 2 Lyndoch Road, Gawler.
Facilities include bike hire, public toilets, cycle storage and lock-up, bike maintenance stand, drinking fountain, picnic tables, shelter and regional cycle & tourism information is available during opening hours in the Visitor Information Centre.
Bicycle Hire is available Monday to Friday 9.30am-4.30pm, Saturday, Sundays and Public Holidays 10am-1pm. Bikes can be returned out of hours to the free hire of Bike Lockers (conditions apply). After Hours return is currently not available.
For Bike Hire Enquiries and further information Contact the Gawler Visitor Information Centre – phone (08) 8522 9260.
An electric charging station supports the growing popularity of electric vehicles and can also be utilised by people who use mobility scooters.
Gawler, South Australia’s first country town is a treasure chest filled with historically rich sites. Visitors will relish in the heritage opportunities by utilising a local guide to join your bus on your one hour tour. A fee of $5 per person up to 20 people is applicable. For numbers exceeding 20 and up to 60 the fee is $85 per bus. Bus numbers must have a minimum of 10 people. Bookings are essential.
The Church Hill area contains the core of Colonel Light’s 1839 Gawler town plan. Due to its historical significance and the overall state of preservation, this area was declared a State Heritage Area on 7 June 1985, the third such heritage area in South Australia.
As you experience the true heritage of Gawler, the attractions will be highlighted unfolding for you why the area is called Church Hill. A wide array of dwellings and outbuildings reflect grand to humble circumstances of people who created the area during the 19th century. Original slate and bluestone kerbs, historic fire hydrants and many other treasures of yesteryear will be revealed.
Gawler is unique in character, a destination moulded from being the first country town in South Australia into its present form, gifted with a natural river corridor and significant built environments.
The Gawler Self-Drive Tour will take you on a journey where you will appreciate the degree that Gawler co tributed towards the development of our state, marvel at its merging of old with new and be envious of our towns lifestyle offerings.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the upgrade of the Gawler to Adelaide Railway Line for electrification there is a detour required to the Driving Tour. At the end of No 15 continue to the T Junction and turn left onto Main North Road. Ignore No 16 and 17. Continue with No 18. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Ephraim Henry (EH) Coombe is a significant person in the history of Gawler and South Australia. He was a business man, a journalist, the Editor of The Bunyip and the Member of Parliament representing the Barossa District. He used his position of influence to champion many social causes. These included temperance, votes for women and the defence of those who were persecuted during the WW1 period because of their German heritage. He opposed conscription and the closure of Lutheran schools.
This 4 kilometre walking tour takes approximately 1.5 hours and commemorates the life and achievements of EH Coombe in Gawler, where he was born and lived for 56 of his 58 years.
Welcome to our brochure featuring a wide range of exciting and engaging indoor and outdoor activities perfect for families, kids and young adults.
There’s no better way to stay active and spend quality time with the family than by enjoying the great outdoors. We’ve got plenty of fun outdoor activities for kids and young adults of all ages that will keep boredom at bay.
If its a rainy day, you want a break from outdoor play, or simply a desire for fun indoors, we also have activities are designed to entertain, educate, and inspire creativity. Let's explore the options!
Gawler’s Historic Main Street reflects Colonel William Lights vision; to create a settlement that could prosper on the banks of the North and South Para Rivers, bounded by rolling hills and within close proximity to Adelaide.
Today you can witness the remarkable eras from the historical buildings that line Gawler’s Main Street. The attractive setting, coupled with major roles in the mining and agricultural booms of the 1860’s, 70’s and 80’s saw Gawler blossom into a town of broad streets, peaceful parklands and distinctive architecture. As the walk unfolds you will gain an appreciation of the achievements that our ancestors accomplished in times of challenging environmental and social harshness.
Feeling the need to explore? Check out our local markets guide! From vintage finds to fresh produce, discover incredible hidden gems in your area and get the low-down on the best local markets around.
Looking for something special? Check out the amazing selection of secondhand treasures at the op shops in Gawler! From clothing to books, furniture and more, you're sure to find something that's perfect for you.
Check out the beautiful parks and gardens in Gawler! Take a peaceful stroll through the lush vegetation, and enjoy the stunning views of nature.
Whether you are looking for some peaceful relaxation, an exciting outdoor adventure, or just a beautiful place to get a breath of fresh air, Gawler has you covered!
If you're looking for places to eat in Gawler, you're in for a treat! Gawler offers a variety of dining options ranging from cozy cafes to restaurants serving diverse cuisines. Here are some popular places to consider:
Please note that it's always a good idea to check the opening hours and make reservations if necessary, especially during peak dining times or on weekends. Enjoy your culinary exploration in Gawler!
With so much to see and do in Gawler it makes sense to stay locally. Whether you are looking for a family friendly holiday or a romantic getaway we have something for you in the Town of Gawler.
Less than an hours drive from the Adelaide CBD, Gawler is a great place to stay and enjoy what the North has to offer with all the conveniences of a regional centre.
The Gawler Visitor Information Centre is able to assist you to find the perfect match for your accommodation needs for getaways that you’ll talk about for years to come.
It is important to recognize that the North Para, South Para and Gawler Rivers are recognised as an important area of cultural significance for the Indigenous Kaurna people. There are a number of significant Aboriginal sites and objects in the locality that provide confirmation of the area being occupied by the Kaurna people and it is also understood that the Gawler area was used as a meeting place for Kaurna and Indigenous people from other regions.
The word ‘Para’ is derived from the Kaurna word ‘pari’ meaning ‘water’. This word is also reflected in the name for the River Junction area, Parridla Taikondi, which means ‘rivers coming together’ and in the name selected for the Gawler Rivers Path, Tapa Pariara. Signage around the Rivers Path reflects this rich heritage.
Ready to explore some of the best wineries in the area? View our brochure to discover amazing wine-tasting experiences and tours of some of the most delightful vineyards! Unwind and enjoy the rolling hillsides, sip on the finest wines, and discover a world of unbelievable delights!