Berrima Courthouse: A Window into Colonial Justice

Explore colonial justice at the Berrima Courthouse: a beautifully preserved historical landmark in the heart of the Southern Highlands.

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Berrima Courthouse

Step back in time at the Berrima Courthouse, a beautifully preserved example of Georgian architecture. Built in the late 1830s, this historic courthouse offers a glimpse into the legal system and social history of colonial Australia. Explore the courtroom, holding cells, and exhibits that bring the past to life.

A brief summary to Berrima Courthouse

Argyle St, Berrima, New South Wales, 2577, AU
+61248771505
Visit website

Monday 10 am-3 pm
Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
Thursday 10 am-3 pm
Friday 10 am-3 pm
Saturday 10 am-3 pm
Sunday 10 am-3 pm

Local tips

Check the schedule for the 'Treachery, Treason & Murder' sound and light show in the courtroom for a dramatic and immersive experience.
Allow ample time to explore the museum exhibits, including the displays on the history of Berrima and the German internees during World War I.
Consider a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the courthouse's history and significance.

Getting There

Walking

The Berrima Courthouse is located on Argyle Street in the heart of Berrima. If you are already in the village, it's easily accessible on foot. Simply walk along Argyle Street until you reach the courthouse. The walk allows you to enjoy the charming atmosphere of the town.
Public Transport

To reach Berrima Courthouse via public transport, take a train to Bowral Station on the Southern Highlands Line. From Bowral Station, catch the 808 bus service towards Berrima. Disembark at the Berrima stop and walk along Argyle Street to reach the courthouse. Be sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time. The bus fare will vary, so it is recommended to have around AUD 5 for the journey.
Driving

If driving, head towards Berrima via the Hume Highway (M31). Exit at the Berrima exit (Berrima Road) and continue onto Berrima Road. Follow the road until you reach Argyle Street, where you will find the Berrima Courthouse. Parking is available nearby. Be mindful of any parking restrictions in the area. Parking is limited during special events.

Discover more about Berrima Courthouse

The Berrima Courthouse, standing proudly on Argyle Street, is a testament to the enduring legacy of colonial Berrima. Constructed from hand-hewn sandstone in the Regency style, the courthouse was completed in 1838 and designed by Mortimer Lewis, Australia's second Colonial Architect. Its Greek Revival design, featuring Doric columns and a classical pediment, reflects the importance of law and justice in the emerging colony. Originally serving as a Court of Assizes, presided over by a Supreme Court judge, the courthouse played a vital role in administering justice in the region. It saw trials ranging from cattle stealing to those of notorious bushrangers and murderers. The first trial by jury in New South Wales was held here in April 1843. Although assize courts were discontinued in 1846, the courthouse continued to host minor court sittings until 1884. Beyond its legal function, the Berrima Courthouse served as a center for public administration and community life. Licenses were issued to publicans and hawkers, convicts were assigned as farmworkers, and the building hosted meetings, dances, concerts, and even church services. During World War I, it was used to house German officers who had been taken as prisoners of war. Today, the Berrima Courthouse operates as a museum, offering visitors a unique theatrical experience. Explore the courtroom, complete with figures of jurors, witnesses, and barristers, and witness the dramatic sound and light show, 'Treachery, Treason & Murder,' which recreates a notorious trial from the 1840s. The museum also features exhibits on the history of Berrima, including photographs of German internees from World War I.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Berrima Reserve

0.4 km

Discover Berrima Reserve in New South Wales – a perfect blend of nature, camping, and family-friendly fun amidst stunning landscapes.

The Story Centre, Berrima District Museum

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Explore the rich tapestry of history at The Story Centre, Berrima District Museum, a must-visit for culture enthusiasts and curious travelers.

Historic Berrima 1831 Sign

0.7 km

Explore the historic charm of Berrima at the 1831 Sign, a symbol of heritage and local culture in New South Wales.

Berrima Walking Tours

1.8 km

Discover the historic charm of Berrima with guided walking tours that unveil the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of this picturesque village.

Bendooley Estate

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Discover the enchanting Bendooley Estate, where fine wines, exquisite dining, and a love for literature intertwine in the stunning Southern Highlands of New South Wales.

Bong Bong Common

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Discover the tranquility of Bong Bong Common, a beautiful park in Burradoo offering cycling paths, picnic spots, and stunning natural beauty.

endota spa Bowral

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Experience ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation at Endota Spa Bowral, nestled in the scenic Southern Highlands of New South Wales.

Moss Manor Hotel

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Discover luxury and tranquility at Moss Manor Hotel in the heart of New South Wales' breathtaking Southern Highlands.

The Seidler House

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Discover the tranquil elegance of The Seidler House in the Southern Highlands, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Artemis Wines

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Explore the exquisite wines and breathtaking views at Artemis Wines in the Southern Highlands, where every sip tells a story of the land.

Mount Gibraltar Quarries

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Explore the historical charm of Mount Gibraltar Quarries in Bowral, a captivating landmark showcasing the region's rich quarrying heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.

Mount Gibraltar

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Experience the breathtaking views and tranquil walking trails at Mount Gibraltar, a must-visit mountain peak in Bowral, New South Wales.

Throsby Park

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Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Throsby Park in Moss Vale, a perfect destination for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Retford Park Estate

10.0 km

Explore the enchanting Retford Park Estate in Bowral, a historic haven of beauty, art, and tranquility amidst stunning landscaped gardens.

Wingecarribee Aboriginal Community Centre

10.4 km

Experience the heart of Aboriginal culture at the Wingecarribee Aboriginal Community Centre in Mittagong, where heritage meets community.

Unmissable attractions to see

Explore Berrima

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Explore the historic charm of Berrima, a picturesque village in New South Wales, where heritage meets natural beauty in the Southern Highlands.

Berrima Self-Guided Heritage Walk

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Explore Berrima's historic charm with a self-guided heritage walk through New South Wales' iconic colonial village.

Australia’s Oldest Camellia Tree

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Explore the beauty and history of Australia's Oldest Camellia Tree, a living testament to nature's artistry in Berrima, NSW.

Harpers Mansion

0.3 km

Explore Harpers Mansion in Berrima, a captivating heritage site and history museum showcasing Australia's colonial history and architectural beauty.

Berrima river walk

0.4 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Berrima River Walk in New South Wales, a picturesque nature preserve perfect for leisurely strolls and nature appreciation.

Berrima Market Place Park

0.5 km

Experience the serene beauty of Berrima Market Place Park, a perfect blend of nature, fun, and local charm in New South Wales.

Goanna Falls Reserve

2.8 km

Discover the serene landscapes of Goanna Falls Reserve in Berrima, perfect for picnics, nature walks, and family outings amidst stunning natural beauty.

Centennial Vineyards

6.4 km

Discover Centennial Vineyards in Bowral, a premier destination for exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes in New South Wales' stunning Southern Highlands.

Golden Vale Homestead

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Explore the rich history of Australia at Golden Vale Homestead, a captivating museum located in the scenic Sutton Forest, New South Wales.

Bowral Sign (Southern Approach)

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Discover the charm of Bowral, a picturesque town in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, offering stunning landscapes, rich history, and delightful experiences.

Cecil Hoskins picnic area

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Discover the serene beauty of Cecil Hoskins Picnic Area, a perfect outdoor escape in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales.

Gibbergunyah Reserve

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Discover the tranquility of Gibbergunyah Reserve, a beautiful nature preserve in the Southern Highlands, perfect for nature walks and family picnics.

Lions Park

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A charming park in Bowral with gardens, play areas, and picnic spots, perfect for a family day out and conveniently located near shops.

Ninety Acre Hill Lookout

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Southern Highlands Winery

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Experience the exquisite wines and stunning views of Southern Highlands Winery, a perfect retreat for wine lovers in picturesque Sutton Forest, NSW.

Essential places to dine

Eschalot Restaurant

0.1 km

Experience fine dining at Eschalot Restaurant in Berrima - where local flavors meet exquisite culinary artistry.

Berrima Vault House

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Discover Berrima Vault House: A delightful restaurant and bar offering exquisite Australian cuisine in a charming village setting.

PepperGreen Estate

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Discover PepperGreen Estate: A Gastronomic Haven in Berrima Offering Exquisite Dining and Fine Wines Amidst Scenic Beauty.

Schmokin' Aus

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Discover the perfect blend of delicious steaks and refreshing cocktails at Schmokin' Aus in picturesque Berrima.

Centennial Vineyards Restaurant

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Discover exceptional dining at Centennial Vineyards Restaurant - where local flavors meet breathtaking vineyard views in Bowral.

Hickory's Restaurant and Bar

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Experience modern Australian cuisine at Hickory's Restaurant and Bar in Bowral - where local flavors meet culinary excellence.

Briars Inn

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Caffe Rosso Bowral

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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Caffe Rosso Bowral - where every meal is crafted with passion and served with warmth.

Bistro Sociale

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Monaco Bowral Restaurant

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Discover exquisite flavors at Monaco Bowral Restaurant in the heart of Bowral - a true gem of New South Wales' culinary scene.

Ethos Restaurant

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Discover the delightful flavors of Ethos Restaurant in Bowral – where breakfast becomes an extraordinary experience.

Eccetera Trattoria Pizzeria

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Savor authentic Italian flavors at Eccetera Trattoria Pizzeria in Bowral – where every dish is crafted with love and tradition.

Onesta Cucina

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Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Onesta Cucina in Bowral - where every meal tells a story.

Harry’s on Green Lane Bowral

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The Press Shop

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Experience the charm of Bowral at The Press Shop – where delightful breakfasts meet exceptional coffee in a cozy setting.

Explore Highland Cards in Bowral for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of this charming Australian town.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bistro 1834

0.2 km

Experience the flavors of Berrima at Bistro 1834, a cozy restaurant showcasing local produce and culinary artistry in a charming setting.

The Surveyor General Inn

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Experience the charm and history of The Surveyor General Inn in Berrima, a perfect blend of hospitality and heritage in the Southern Highlands.

Briars Country Lodge (MOTEL)

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Eden Brewery in Mittagong offers an exceptional craft beer experience with gourmet burgers and live music, perfect for every food and drink enthusiast.

Eden Brewery | A Southern Highlands Brewery | Craft Beer & Burger Bar

Mittagong RSL Club

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Experience the welcoming charm of Mittagong RSL Club, where great food, family fun, and community spirit come together in a vibrant setting.

Mittagong Hotel

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Discover the delightful Mittagong Hotel - a perfect blend of bar, pub, and restaurant experiences in the heart of New South Wales' Southern Highlands.

The Bundanoon Club

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Discover the charm of The Bundanoon Club in the heart of Bundanoon, where delicious food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere await you.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Berrima Courthouse: A Window into Colonial Justice

A brief summary to Berrima Courthouse

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Unlock the Best of Berrima Courthouse

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Berrima Courthouse

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Berrima Reserve

The Story Centre, Berrima District Museum

Historic Berrima 1831 Sign

Berrima Walking Tours

Bendooley Estate

Bong Bong Common

endota spa Bowral

Moss Manor Hotel

The Seidler House

Artemis Wines

Mount Gibraltar Quarries

Mount Gibraltar

Throsby Park

Retford Park Estate

Wingecarribee Aboriginal Community Centre

Unmissable attractions to see

Explore Berrima

Berrima Self-Guided Heritage Walk

Australia’s Oldest Camellia Tree

Harpers Mansion

Berrima river walk

Berrima Market Place Park

Goanna Falls Reserve

Centennial Vineyards

Golden Vale Homestead

Bowral Sign (Southern Approach)

Cecil Hoskins picnic area

Gibbergunyah Reserve

Lions Park

Ninety Acre Hill Lookout

Southern Highlands Winery

Essential places to dine

Eschalot Restaurant

Berrima Vault House

PepperGreen Estate

Schmokin' Aus

Centennial Vineyards Restaurant

Hickory's Restaurant and Bar

Briars Inn

Caffe Rosso Bowral

Bistro Sociale

Monaco Bowral Restaurant

Ethos Restaurant

Eccetera Trattoria Pizzeria

Onesta Cucina

Harry’s on Green Lane Bowral

The Press Shop

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Three Wise Monkeys

Dirty Janes Bowral

Suzie Anderson Home | Bowral

The South Store

Birdhouse by HEM

Dust N Ranch Outfitters

Lancelot Hill Antiques

Few And Far Bowral

Creative & Co Concept Store

Nu Mode Boutique

#be_trendy (be trendy)

Highlands Emporium

LotusMagic - Gifts and Toys Bowral NSW

Ecolena

Highland Cards

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bistro 1834

The Surveyor General Inn

Briars Country Lodge (MOTEL)