Berrima

Berrima is a perfectly preserved Georgian-era village in the New South Wales Southern Highlands, offering a step back in time with its sandstone buildings, antique shops, and historic pubs. It’s an ideal stop for travellers exploring the region between Sydney and Canberra, blending colonial history with a vibrant food and wine scene.

Highlights & What to See

• Berrima Courthouse – One of Australia’s oldest courthouses (1838), now a museum showcasing local history and convict-era artefacts.
• Bendigo Street – The main drag lined with 19th-century buildings housing galleries, bookshops, and the famous Berrima Bookshop.
• Harper’s Mansion – A restored Georgian house with a stunning garden and hedge maze, offering insight into early settler life.
• Berrima Vault House – A historic cellar door where you can sample local cool-climate wines and ciders.
• Surveyor General Inn – Australia’s oldest continuously licensed inn (1834), perfect for a pub lunch or a pint by the fire.
• Berrima River Walk – A gentle stroll along the Wingecarribee River, with picnic spots and birdwatching.

Suggested Time to Spend

Berrima can be enjoyed in a half-day, allowing a couple of hours to explore the historic buildings and shops, plus lunch at a pub or café. To fully appreciate the wine and food scene, consider an overnight stay – many visitors pair it with a visit to the nearby wineries of the Southern Highlands or the town of Bowral.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bowral – Just 15 minutes away, this chic town is known for its boutiques, gardens, and the annual Tulip Time festival.
• Mittagong – A gateway to the Southern Highlands with antique stores and the Mount Gibraltar Reserve for bushwalks.
• Fitzroy Falls – A spectacular waterfall in Morton National Park, about 20 minutes south, with lookout platforms and walking trails.
• Bundanoon – Famous for its glow-worm tunnels and the Brigadoon weekend market, a 30-minute drive.
• Sydney – Berrima is an easy 1.5-hour drive from the city, making it a popular day-trip or weekend escape.

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