Harden – Murrumburrah
Harden–Murrumburrah
Where history, heritage and the Light Horse meet in the Hilltops
Step into a story of gold rush dreams, railway boom times and Australia’s first Light Horse troop in the twin towns of Harden and Murrumburrah—rich in heritage, charm, and country hospitality.
Just 30 minutes from Young and 90 minutes from Canberra along the Burley Griffin Way, these neighbouring towns have grown side by side. Murrumburrah began on the banks of the Murimboola Creek in the 1840s, while Harden sprang to life in 1877 with the arrival of the Sydney–Melbourne railway. The railway workshops brought workers, families and growth and together, the twin towns flourished.
Today, Harden–Murrumburrah offers wide country skies, warm welcomes and a strong sense of place, set against a backdrop of gorgeous rural landscape. This is rich agricultural land, home to thriving sheep and cattle farms and golden grain fields. In spring, the region glows with spectacular canola blooms, turning the rolling hills into a sea of yellow.
Railway Relics and Light Horse Legacy
Wander between eras as you explore the distinct architectural styles of both towns. In Murrumburrah, discover red-brick courthouses, grand banks in the Arts & Crafts style and the Federation-style Mechanics Institute, now home to the local museum. The Light Horse Memorial on Albury Street honours the proud legacy of the district’s service—the very first troop of the Australian Light Horse was raised right here in 1897.
In Harden, the beautifully landscaped Neill Street is the beating heart of town, lined with date palms, Federation-era buildings and country shops. The still-operating railway station is a proud reminder of the region’s vital rail heritage, while the heritage footbridge near St Mary’s Church offers sweeping views across the twin towns and beyond.
Gold, Ghosts and Local Legends
Step into the past at the Barnes Store in Murrumburrah, a striking 1860s-era building that now serves as a popular café. It was once a regular haunt of bushranger Ben Hall, who would reportedly stroll in and attempt to sell melted-down gold to the owners. Tales like these add colour to the town’s gold rush roots and bring local history vividly to life.
A Country Welcome Worth Stopping For
Antique stores, local makers, homegrown produce and a garden centre brimming with seasonal colour add to the appeal. Take a scenic detour through Currawong Valley to discover historic churches and charming rural homesteads, or settle in for a hearty pub meal and a chat with the locals.
Harden–Murrumburrah also soars to life each spring with the vibrant Harden Kite Festival, an annual celebration of kites, culture and connection held in October. Set against a backdrop of golden canola fields and wide country skies, this colourful event draws families from near and far to enjoy a day of sky-high fun, food and festivity.
Whether you come for the festival, the history, the views or the rich rural charm, Harden–Murrumburrah offers a true taste of Hilltops hospitality where stories live on, and every season brings something new to discover.
