Peterborough is situated on the Great Ocean Road and near the Bay of Islands Coastal Park, with history, scenery and culture in abundance. Close to Broken Hill and Port Pirie, it’s a great stop for those exploring the Flinders Ranges and Shipwreck Coast. With historic landmarks, cultural attractions and outdoor activities galore, Peterborough has its best heritage, coastal views and community spirit to share.
History Peterborough
Peterborough’s history is defined by two things: the railway and the sea. Originally a small fishing village, Peterborough grew because of its location on the Shipwreck Coast, a treacherous stretch where many ships met their end. The town became a rail hub, and today, its rail history is preserved and celebrated. This coastal town is home to the Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre, where historic collections give visitors a glimpse into the town’s past, with vintage locomotives and rail memorabilia.
Peterborough’s maritime history is just as interesting as the wrecks of ships as the Halladale part of the town’s story. The town’s early settlers, mostly British, brought their own cultural traditions reflected in the architecture and place names and added a unique blend of heritage beliefs evident throughout the town today. Peterborough has retained its old-world charm while also embracing equity of outcomes and lasting partnerships with Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara communities, reconciliation and respect for Indigenous heritage.
Origin of the Name
The name of the town Peterborough comes from the early British settlers and could be named after places back in the UK. The community has grown while retaining its heritage beliefs and reconciliation with Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. This is evident throughout Peterborough.
Top Attractions
Peterborough has plenty of attractions that show off its natural and cultural heritage, making it one of the biggest heritage towns by the sea.
Bay of Martyrs Beach
One of the town’s top attractions, the Bay of Martyrs beach, has stunning cliff views and a battered coastline that tells the story of nature’s fury. On the Shipwreck Coast, this beach has panoramic views and a great backdrop for sunsets, so it’s a favourite with photographers and sightseers. With beach wheelchairs available, the Bay of Martyrs beach is accessible to all, so it’s a safe place for kids to explore and families to spend the day.
Bay of Islands
A quieter alternative to the Twelve Apostles, the Bay of Islands Coastal Park has a landscape of ancient limestone formations rising out of the ocean. Take in the views from the many viewing platforms and coastal trails and get up close to the unique geology of the coast. This is a great place to go for a gentle walk away from the crowds, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of ancient ranges and a battered coast that has been eroded for centuries.
Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre
A part of Peterborough’s fabric, the Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre is a must see for rail buffs and history lovers. Located on Main Street, the centre gives a unique insight into Peterborough’s rail history with exhibitions that reflect the spirit of heritage work and the town’s past. The centre has hands on exhibits and historic locomotives.
Walk and Historic Sites
The Peterborough Walk is a self-guided tour of the town, taking you past iconic landmarks like the town hall, post office, print shop, and even the CARRIAGE MUSEUM. This walk shows heritage work by taking you through some of the largest town halls and historical buildings in the area, each with a story to tell. As you visit these sites, you’ll gain a greater appreciation of Peterborough’s cultural heritage and the efforts of its residents to preserve the town’s history. The district council is actively involved in maintaining these sites, so Peterborough’s history is always on display.
Family Fun
Peterborough is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities to enjoy. Peterborough Primary School and Peterborough High School host local events that welcome visitors and are great for community spirit. Families can also go rock pooling, beachcombing and picnicking along the coast. For a deeper look into the town’s history, visit Lionel Noble’s tribute site or find out more about the region’s heritage at the Peterborough Visitor Information Centre.
Exploring the Shipwreck Coast and Nearby Attractions
The Shipwreck Coast near Peterborough is a hauntingly beautiful and tragic place, infamous for its rough waters and many shipwrecks. As you walk this coast, you’ll find stories of bravery and tragedy, as well as memorials and museums of the lost. Beyond the coast, you can take in the natural beauty of the old ranges, marvel at the variety of coastal rock formations and see as far as the geographical heart of the Great Ocean Road.
Accommodation
Peterborough has options to suit all types of travellers, from B&Bs and budget motels to beachside cabins. The beachside motels are popular for their proximity to the coast, so you can easily get to the beach and Peterborough’s top attractions. Prices vary by season, with peak season being summer. If you want a more rustic experience, camping is available in nearby parks, and you get closer to the natural beauty.
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Peterborough depends on what you want to do. For beach activities the warmer months November to March are best, for a quieter more reflective time along the coast the winter months are good. For wildlife the whale watching season (June to September) is a great time to see migrating whales along the coast. The council offices can provide more information on seasonal activities so you can have the best experience all year round.
How to get there
Peterborough, located along the iconic Great Ocean Road, is just a 3-hour drive from Melbourne. For those traveling from Adelaide, a scenic coastal drive offers an excellent opportunity to explore charming coastal towns and vibrant country communities, including Peterborough, SA. Public transport options are also available to nearby towns, with bus services running from Port Pirie and other regional hubs—making it a convenient stop on your Melbourne Great Ocean Road tour.
FAQ
Where can I get more info on local events and attractions in Peterborough?
Peterborough Visitor Information Centre for all the latest on events, attractions and historic sites in Peterborough.
What are the top attractions in Peterborough?
Bay of Martyrs beach, Bay of Islands, Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre and the Peterborough Walk.
Is Peterborough good for family holidays?
Yes, Peterborough has plenty of family friendly activities and local schools like Peterborough Primary School and Peterborough High School have community events that visitors can attend.
Are there historic sites in Peterborough?
Yes. The Town Hall, Print Shop and Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre give you a glimpse into Peterborough’s past, including its railway history.
When should I visit Peterborough?
Peterborough is great all year round but November to March is best for beach activities and winter (June to August) is best for a quiet coastal experience.
