Larrimah

Larrimah is a tiny, sun-baked outpost on the Stuart Highway in the Northern Territory, roughly halfway between Katherine and Daly Waters. Once a bustling service town for the Overland Telegraph and later the railway, it now has a quirky, almost ghost-town atmosphere that fascinates travellers. Its main draw is the famous Larrimah Pub — a classic outback watering hole with a colourful history and a surprisingly good beer garden. For international visitors on a self-drive adventure, this is a perfect spot to stretch your legs, hear local yarns, and experience the raw, offbeat character of the Australian outback.

Highlights & What to See

• Larrimah Pub – The heart of town, with cold beer, hearty pub meals, and walls covered in memorabilia. Don’t miss the resident goat, who often hangs around the bar.
• Pink Panther Motel – A quirky, bright-pink motel that stands out against the red dirt. Even if you’re not staying, it’s a fun photo stop.
• Larrimah Museum – A small but fascinating collection of local history, including telegraph artifacts and stories of the town’s eccentric characters.
• Daly Waters Pub – A short drive north, this legendary pub is covered in travellers’ memorabilia and offers a lively atmosphere, cold beer, and basic meals.
• Birdwatching at the Waterhole – Just east of town, a permanent waterhole attracts a surprising variety of birdlife, especially at dawn and dusk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Larrimah is a quick stop — plan for 30 minutes to an hour to stretch your legs, grab a drink at the pub, and snap a photo of the Pink Panther Motel. If you’re feeling adventurous, combine it with a visit to Daly Waters Pub (20 minutes north) and make a half-day of it. Most travellers pass through on their way between Katherine and Tennant Creek, so it fits naturally into a self-drive itinerary along the Stuart Highway.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Daly Waters – Famous for its historic pub and as a former aviation refuelling stop.
• Katherine – Gateway to Nitmiluk National Park and the stunning Katherine Gorge.
• Mataranka – Thermal pools and the Elsey National Park, perfect for a relaxing swim.
• Tennant Creek – Gold-mining history and the Battery Hill Mining Centre.
• Newcastle Waters – Historic cattle station and a classic outback roadhouse.

Please check official sources for current details.