Things To Do
in Peterborough

Peterborough is a small inland town in South Australia that serves as a gateway to expansive landscapes and historic railway heritage. Nestled on the plains near the Flinders Ranges, it blends a quiet country atmosphere with a rich sense of frontier history. The town centre showcases heritage facades, pubs, and cafes that welcome travelers passing through.

Visitors can use Peterborough as a base for outdoor adventures while enjoying a relaxed regional vibe.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Peterborough and check into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the coastline to enjoy the fresh sea air and scenic views. Visit the local information center to gather maps and infographics about the area's history.

afternoon
:

Explore the iconic cliffs of the Great Ocean Road nearby, taking in the stunning coastal scenery. Have lunch at a charming local café featuring regional specialties. Afterward, stop by the local art galleries showcasing works by local artists.

evening
:

Dine at one of Peterborough's waterfront restaurants with a view of the sunset. Savor delicious seafood and perhaps a glass of local wine. Wind down with a relaxing walk along the beach, listening to the waves lapping at the shore.

day 2
Great Ocean Road Adventure
morning
:

Set out early to drive along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road. Stop at various lookout points along the way to capture stunning photographs of the Twelve Apostles and other rock formations. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a cafe in Apollo Bay.

afternoon
:

Continue your journey, visiting the lush rainforests of Otway National Park for short walks among towering trees and serene waterfalls. Enjoy daytime exploration and take part in activities like zip-lining or walking trails. Indulge in a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Return to Peterborough and enjoy a delightful dinner featuring local cuisine. Consider visiting a local pub for some live music to get a taste of the local culture. Reflect on the day's adventures with a cozy evening under the stars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🛍️Groceries (monthly)$200-400
🏠1 bedroom apartment (city centre)$800-1000
🚗Gasoline (per liter)$1.80-2.40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm country town with easy access to nature
  • Friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife and dining options
  • Longer drives to major cities for more diverse amenities

Places to Visit in Peterborough

Visit one of these nice places.

Peterborough Main Street Heritage Facades

Historic storefronts and architectural details provide classic Australian town photography.

Peterborough Railway Precinct

Industrial-era rail yards and railway elements offer evocative shots of transport history.

Outskirts at Sunset

Open plains and wide skies at golden hour create striking landscape photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Peterborough

Across Peterborough, you'll find classic Australian pub fare and simple cafe dishes, with a focus on hearty meals, local produce, and regional wine or beer. Expect welcome warmth, generous servings, and a casual, unpretentious dining scene that’s well-suited to travelers and locals alike.

Peterborough Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lamb and damper platter

A hearty staple often served in pubs, pairing tender lamb with rustic damper and a relish or gravy.

Must-Try!

Damper with bush tomato relish

A traditional, crusty bread served with a tangy bush tomato relish—great for a quick, savoury bite.

Meat pie with gravy

Australian classics found in many town eateries, best enjoyed with a side of chips or salad.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Peterborough Farmers Market

Weekend market offering seasonal produce, baked goods, preserves, and local crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

The town experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers, cool winters, and modest rainfall, mostly in winter. Sunny days are common throughout the year, with rapid changes possible in shoulder seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly 'G’day' or 'hello' is common; casual, relaxed conversation is appreciated.

Respect for property

Ask permission before entering private spaces and respect local signage and rules in natural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good in town; stay aware of remote road conditions, carry a map or GPS, and keep valuables secure in public areas. Always check local advisories for weather or road closures before venturing out to nature spots.

Tipping in Peterborough

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping in Australia is not mandatory; rounding up or leaving a small tip for good service is customary in hospitality, but not expected.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; EFTPOS and contactless payments are standard in shops, cafes, and pubs.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot days with abundant sunshine; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for cooler early mornings or late afternoons.

Winter

Cooler temperatures with potential for rain; pack layers and a light rain jacket for outdoor outings.

Nightlife Guide

Peterborough at Night

Peterborough offers a small, relaxed nightlife centered on pubs and hotel bars, with occasional live music or community events. Venues tend to be low-key, welcoming, and sociable, providing a cozy atmosphere after a day of sightseeing.

Hiking in Peterborough

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Remarkable National Park trails

Nearby hiking with varied terrain and scenic views.

Flinders Ranges foothills trails (via Melrose)

Longer day hikes through rugged landscapes and canyons.

Airports

How to reach Peterborough by plane.

Port Augusta Airport

Regional airport with flights to Adelaide and connections.

Adelaide Airport (ADL)

Major international and domestic hub about 270-300 km south; best for long-haul connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is walkable with most services within a short stroll; beyond that, nature trips require a car or bike.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families live in the town with a mix of long-term residents and newcomers.

Retirees

A notable portion of residents are retirees seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle.

Tourists

Visitors exploring nearby national parks and heritage sites.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Australian Rules Football

A popular sport in rural SA, with local clubs and seasonal matches.

Cricket

Seasonal cricket venues in town and nearby rural grounds.

Transportation

Traffic

Local traffic is light; primary transport is car. Public transport is limited and schedules can be infrequent; plan ahead for remote areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Peterborough.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many pubs and cafes offer vegetarian options; ask for daily specials or vegetarian dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are local GP clinics and a small health facility in town; for major services, regional centers in Port Augusta or Adelaide are reachable by car.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide