The charming country town of Bungendore lies conveniently in between the NSW South Coast and the nation’s capital. Despite its proximity to Canberra, Bungendore still maintains a relaxed and quaint country atmosphere. The town is well known for its unique gift shops, world class galleries and exceptional cool-climate wines, but also boasts a rich and colourful past.
Far before the arrival of European settlers, the Bungendore area was occupied by the Ngarigo people. In 1820, however, European settlers reached the area while looking for the Murrumbidgee River, and 17 years later, the town of Bungendore was officially proclaimed.
Around this time, the settlement became an important crossroads connecting Goulburn, Braidwood, Queanbeyan and Cooma. Following the establishment of Canberra as the nation’s capital, the latter half of the 20th century saw several new ventures open, from fine art and craft studios to antique shops, cafés and restaurants. To this day, arts, crafts, antiques and wineries remain the town’s main drawcards.
Did you know? The town is believed to take its name from one of the area’s early outstations, ‘Bungadow’, first recorded in 1824.
Take a short stroll through town to discover more about the stories that have shaped Bungendore into what it is today. Learn more about stories of bushrangers and the town’s social scene in the early 1900s, and visit shopfronts and pubs that have stood the test of time.
This trail has been created by the Rotary Club of Bungendore referencing well-informed sources. Significant research has been undertaken and published by a number of people in the past. This contribution is recognised in the bibliography for each site on the trail. Their research and publications are invaluable and appreciated.
Please note, the village of Bungendore enjoys a rural setting and as such does not have footpaths or kerbs and gutters on all streets. There are also limited identified pedestrian crossings. Care should be taken if walking the Bungendore History Trail and also in crossing main roads. In many cases, properties on the trail can be viewed from across the road, therefore removing the necessity to cross busy roads. Public toilets can be found at the Mick Sherd Oval (site 9 on the trail).