Moonta – Discover Cornish Mining Heritage

Moonta is a destination for travellers who want to explore the history of Cornish mining from several perspectives. The technology, expertise and culture of this mining industry are highly visible here, giving Moonta outstanding national heritage significance. Exhibitions, historic machinery, train rides and trails each offer a different focus.

Mining History in Buildings and Exhibitions

The Moonta Mines Museum is located in the former Moonta Mines Model School. The school building was constructed in 1878; themed exhibitions show the everyday lives of Cornish miners. The Miners Cottage & Heritage Garden adds to this picture: the typically Cornish cottage was built around 1870 and is furnished as it would have been before 1900. Access to the cottage may be restricted.

The School of Mines on Ellen Street in Moonta was converted from a Baptist church in 1891 and was the first School of Mines outside Adelaide. Today it houses working scale models of mining machinery, as well as exhibitions of historic mining photographs. The Hughes Pump House housed a 60-inch Cornish beam steam engine, which remained in operation until the mine closed in 1923.

The original lease area of the Moonta Mining Company is now the 320-hectare Moonta Mines National Heritage Area, managed by the Moonta National Trust.

Railway and Trails in Moonta Mines

The Tourist Railway offers a 50-minute return trip on a narrow-gauge railway. The route passes the reservoir and ore-sorting facilities, and travels through a tunnel in Ryans Tailings Heap. The train also visits the former Precipitation Works to share the history of copper extraction. Timetables may vary, so check them before making plans.

A 3.2-kilometre trail takes you close to places that were once accessible only by laboriously making your way through the bush. The trails in Moonta Mines are suitable for bicycles and mobility aids. A recently upgraded walking trail provides access to the Hughes Enginehouse and its surroundings; interpretive signs explain the remaining structures. Trail conditions may change.

Near the Richmans Engine House is a tailings mound about 20 metres high. From the top, you can enjoy a view across the entire district.

Local History and Local Specialties

The Discovering Historic Moonta Town Walk passes through Moonta’s main business district and starts and ends on George Street at the Town Hall. The brochure may not always be available.

Moonta railway station houses the Moonta Tourist Office and an extensive display of old photographs. The images show life in Moonta in the 19th century. As facilities may change, check current information about the Tourist Office and exhibition before your visit.

A Cornish pasty is also a local culinary discovery: you can try one of the famous Cornish pasties at a bakery in Moonta. Availability may vary.

Different Formats for Planning

The activities offer different ways to plan your day: the Tourist Railway is defined by its 50-minute return trip, while the trail in Moonta Mines is measured by its 3.2-kilometre length. The Town Walk, by contrast, focuses on the main business district and starts and ends on George Street at the Town Hall. This lets you choose between a train ride, a trail through the mining area and a walk exploring local history.

Discover more destinations: North Moonta, Kadina, Wallaroo, Port Hughes

Return to the main travel overview: District Council of the Copper Coast.