Tucked away in South Australia’s mid-north, the historic town of Burra is a captivating blend of outback charm and rich industrial heritage. Once the booming heart of Australia’s copper mining industry, Burra is now a living museum. Where stone cottages, towering ruins, and cobblestone streets whisper stories of a bygone era.
Whether you’re a history lover, road tripper, or curious explorer, Burra invites you to slow down and step back in time. From the iconic Midnight Oil house (just out of town heading towards Peterborough) to the immersive Burra Heritage Passport Trail. This hidden gem offers a truly unique glimpse into Australia’s colonial past.
Burra – A Town Steeped In Copper History
Nestled in South Australia’s Mid North, Burra is a charming heritage town that tells the story of copper mining, early colonial life, and a vibrant multicultural past. Once a booming mining settlement, Burra now stands as a living museum, preserving the legacy of one of Australia’s earliest and most successful copper mines.
The Discovery That Changed Everything
In 1845, the discovery of copper at Burra transformed the region overnight. The Burra Mine, often referred to as “The Monster Mine,” quickly became one of the largest and most lucrative copper mines in the world. Initially the mine was an underground mine down to 183 metres deep. The first open cut mine was started in 1845 and proved to be unprofitable and closed in 1877. The mine was dug to a depth of 37 metres.
The lookout to view this open copper mine is a road taken from the road between Burra and North Burra. The Historic Trail is well signed, making it easy to follow along to visit the historic sites. Along this road, there is a lookout that overlooks the town.
A Town Built By Miners
The town of Burra is actually a collection of smaller villages that were developed to house the workers and their families. Areas like Redruth, Aberdeen, and Hampton reflect the origins of their settlers. Walking through Burra today, you’ll find 19th-century stone cottages, cobblestone laneways, and buildings that have changed little since the mine’s heyday.
Burra Heritage Passport Trail
A must-do for visitors is the Burra Heritage Passport Trail. This self-guided tour gives you access to 11 historic sites, including the underground mine chambers, the Powder Magazine, the Unicorn Brewery cellars, and the old police lock-up. To purchase a key to access these sites, go to the information centre in Burra. Here, you can obtain a key that grants you access to two days of visiting interesting sites around Burra.
Even if you do not wish to purchase a key pass, you can drive the Historic Trail and visit the sites. You will get to see the outside of most of these buildings, but will not be able to enter.
Cornish Influence In Burra’s Architecture and Culture
Many of Burra’s early miners hailed from Cornwall, and their influence is still seen today. From the distinctive Cornish-style cottages to cultural events that celebrate Cornish heritage, Burra proudly embraces its roots. The miners brought not only their mining skills but also their traditions, faith, and community spirit.
Redruth Gaol – A Window Into The Past
Built in 1856, Redruth Gaol was South Australia’s first government-run gaol outside of Adelaide. Later repurposed as a girls’ reformatory, this eerie but fascinating building offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of life in colonial times. It also gained fame as a filming location for the 1979 movie Breaker Morant.
Places To Eat In Burra
There is a range of cafes to choose from for breakfast and lunch. As well as a couple of hotels to have meals at.
St Just Cafe Burra
Located at 5 Commercial Street in historic Burra, St Just Café with a connecting door through to the St Just store (gift shop). They occupy a beautifully restored late 19th-century retail building. Originally home to Drews and Crews General Merchants, established in the 1880s, now delightfully re-imagined as a cosy café and quirky gift shop.
Today, it’s a beloved local spot where visitors can enjoy nourishing, homemade-style breakfast and lunch dishes in a relaxed, vintage-inspired setting. On our recent visit, we indulged ourselves in a delicious serving of bacon and eggs paired with rich, freshly brewed coffee.
After breakfast, a stroll through the adjoining shop revealed a collection of antiques, home-wares, and gift items beautifully displayed. There was a range of gifts for all ages, and everything was displayed expertly.
Burra Creek
Burra Creek is both historically significant and scenically beautiful, winding through the township of Burra and stretching onward toward the dramatic Burra Gorge. This gently flowing watercourse was the very reason Burra boomed in the mid‑1800s, when copper ore was discovered on its banks, spurring South Australia’s first great mining rush.
Access for day walks and short hikes is also available via the Burra Creek Nature Reserve. While less developed, the bushland trails offer a peaceful escape into native vegetation and birdlife, and for more adventurous walkers.
The Heysen Trail also provides a longer and more challenging segment through Burra. Through changing terrain and dramatic gorge scenery the Heysen Trail starts at Parachilna in the Flinders Ranges, stretching 1200 kms down to Cape Jervis.
Whether you’re after a gentle riverside stroll, a peaceful picnic by the water, or a slice of long‑distance trail walking, Burra Creek and its surroundings offer a rich and rewarding experience.
Accommodation In Burra
Paxton Square Cottages and the Burra Caravan & Camping Park, both part of the Paxton Square Precinct in Burra, South Australia:
Burra Caravan Park
We stayed at the Burra caravan park. It is a small caravan park with clean amenities and easy-to-access sites, parking is on gravel. There was a well-equipped camp kitchen to cook your meals, with both indoor and outdoor BBQs. The caravan park backs onto the Burra Creek. It is an easy walk into town across a walkway bridge for cafes and shops.
Paxton Square Cottages
A heritage-listed boutique accommodation made up of 32 restored 1800s miners’ cottages, blending historic charm with modern amenities. Located at 1 Kingston Street, Burra SA 5417, just a short 2–5 minute walk to local shops, cafés, the Visitor Centre, Market Square, and art gallery.
Other Accommodation Options In Burra
Beyond Paxton Square Cottages and the caravan park, Burra offers a variety of charming heritage stays and modern lodgings, including Cottages that have been restored. There are B&Bs to choose from, as well as the Burra Motor Inn.
Burra SA In Conclusion
Burra is a town where history lingers in every stone cottage, mine shaft, and quiet creek. Whether you’re wandering the heritage-listed streets, enjoying a hearty breakfast at a local café, or relaxing. Burra offers a rich blend of the past and present. From its copper-mining legacy and fascinating museums to peaceful walking trails along Burra Creek. There’s something here to inspire every traveller. This hidden gem in South Australia’s mid-north is more than just a stopover. It’s a place to slow down, explore, and connect with Australia’s heritage in a meaningful and memorable way.