What? London Bridge Arch, Googong Foreshores.

Where? Queanbeyan, NSW. 

How do I get there? The Googong Foreshores is 10 kilometres south of Queanbeyan and is managed as a water catchment, wildlife refuge and public recreation area.
Directions For Googong Foreshores


Backgrounder? The London Bridge Arch, located at the Googong Foreshores in Queanbeyan, NSW, is proof that nature is a wonderful engineer. The flowing waters of Burra Creek took thousands of years to carve this natural wonder out of limestone. The result is so impressive, that it prompted the keen explorer Captain Mark Currie to describe it in 1823 as, “a natural bridge of one perfect Saxon arch”.

It’s a bit of a mystery why Captain Currie named this marvel the London Bridge. Perhaps he was just yearning for home. But one thing is certain, this natural creation has been around a whole lot longer than its English namesake.  

While it's fun to explore - and even walk across the top of - the naturally formed London Bridge, the land that surrounds it is also worth a visit. This special part of the world, at the Southern end of the Googong Foreshores, is rich in reminders of our colonial past: a mid-19th century woolshed, shearer quarters and homestead are still visible from the car park.

The homestead wouldn't be much good to live in today, but it's the perfect starting point for a bushwalk; a scenic backdrop for a weekend picnic (after you’ve been for a kayak or bicycle ride, a sail or even a quick fish!).

What? Molonglo Gorge

Where? Queanbeyan, NSW

How do I get there? The Molonglo Gorge features an easy to access recreation area that is located off the Sutton Road. It is 15 minutes from Canberra's city centre and 10 minutes from nearby Queanbeyan. Directions For Molonglo Gorge


Backgrounder? The Molonglo River has flowed across the plains, near Queanbeyan NSW, for millions of years. It's this constant ebb and flow of water that has played a major role in the creation of the scenic and mostly unspoiled gorge. Today, this river flows gently in comparison to it's hey-day, but this makes it a relatively safe and scenic spot for a memorable family outing. 

While the gorge and adjacent recreation area is in close proximity to the city, only the occasional rumble of a train reminds visitors that this spot is part of the fabric of modern life. Even then, you’ll feel nostalgic when you hear the whistle and beat of the historic steam train that regularly puffs its way from Queanbeyan to Bungendore. While, the twin ruins of the Glenburn homestead, takes visitors further back in time. These well preserved buildings originate from the mid-to-late 1800s.

In close proximity to the gorge there are some great bushwalks, such as the 3 km walking trail that winds its way up from the river to the Blue Tiles picnic area. Most walks in and around this area offer spectacular views.

Unfortunately, there is no camping in the gorge itself, but you can camp in the Old Kowen Recreation Area (adjacent to the Molonglo Gorge). Situated within a pine plantation, this recreation area is popular for horse riding and mountain bike riding; while it also provides the ideal location picnics, with both wood fired and gas BBQ’s available. Also worth noting is that this area can be booked exclusively for specific functions and large events. Phone ACT Forests 02 6207 2486 or Canberra Connect 13 22 81 for more information.



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