Darwin Walking Tour: World War II Reflections

Darwin, AU
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (18 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Local guide
  • inclusion
    Spoken commentary

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • exclusion
    Food and drinks

Meeting Point

Look for the guide wearing a bright orange shirt and standing near the John McDouall Stuart monument in Raintree Park.

Meeting point

Cnr The Mall &, Knuckey St, Darwin City NT 0800 , Australia

End point

End Point

From The Cenotaph, guests can choose to walk the paths of Bicentennial Park and view memorials to lives lost during WWII, or purchase refreshments from a nearby cafe.

Meeting point

Bicentennial Park, Esplanade, Darwin City NT 0800 , Australia

End point

What to expect

1

Darwin

Through the central district of Darwin there are many hidden references to WWII. Discover them as you wander these easily walkable streets with your local guide.

2

The Vic Hotel

Part of Darwin's social history for over 100 years, this majestic building was an entertainment hub for both Australian and American service personnel during WWII.

Duration 5 minutes
3

Brown's Mart Theatre

A pre-WWII building at the heart of Darwin's community which became part of the Navy base HMAS Melville throughout the preparation and defence of Australia.

Duration 10 minutes
4

Administrator of the Northern Territory

These beautifully restored buildings encapsulate life from the early years of Darwin. Today, they are used as offices for The Administrator of the Northern Territory just as they were the Naval Command during WWII.

Duration 10 minutes
5

Parliament House

This grand building stands in memorial to the civilian Post Office staff who lost their lives at this site during the bombing of Darwin in 1942. Step inside to see where a bomb fell and discover the rebuilt Post Office wall displaying its shrapnel scars. NOTE: Guests pass through security screening to enter this building.

Duration 20 minutes
6

Darwin Cenotaph

The Cenotaph is an important memorial to Northern Territorians who served during War. It overlooks the harbour where many died during the first air raid on 19 February 1942. The site was home to the 14th Anti-Aircraft Battery which fired the first shots in defence of Australia on Australian soil.

Duration 10 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Additional information
    Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Additional information
    Bring camera, sunscreen, hat and drinking water
  • Additional information
    Good enclosed non-slip walking shoes are recommended
  • Additional information
    A minimum of 2 people per tour is required for the tour to operate
Provided by Walk Darwin Pty Ltd

What our experts say

  • icon
    Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes.
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    Bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
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    Visit nearby Raintree Park for a relaxing stroll.
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    Check out local cafes for refreshments post-tour.
  • icon
    Take your camera for stunning photo ops.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Take a step back in time and immerse yourself in the historic quarter of Darwin, Australia, as you embark on the Darwin Walking Tour: World War II Reflections. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this 2-hour walking tour transports you back to the fateful year of 1942, when World War II reached mainland Australia and Darwin was bombed.

What to expect?

During this captivating tour, you can anticipate delving into the hidden references to WWII that can still be found throughout Darwin's central district. Wander through easily walkable streets as your guide unveils the stories and secrets of this significant era. From pre-WWII buildings that played a vital role in the defence of Australia to beautifully restored structures that were once the command center during the war, each step on the tour reveals the city's wartime heritage.

Who is this for?

The Darwin Walking Tour: World War II Reflections is a must-visit experience for history enthusiasts, war buffs, and anyone with an interest in exploring the impact of WWII on the Northern Territory. Whether you're a local wanting to gain a deeper understanding of your city's past or a visitor looking to connect with Australia's wartime history, this tour caters to all ages and backgrounds. No prior knowledge is required, as the guide offers comprehensive explanations and captivating anecdotes throughout the tour.

Why book this?

This unforgettable walking tour offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Darwin's rich history and gain firsthand insights into the impact of World War II on this city. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by civilians and service personnel during this tumultuous time. The tour takes you to hidden corners of Darwin that hold poignant stories and showcases significant landmarks, leaving you with a profound understanding of the city's resilience.

Good to know

The Darwin Walking Tour: World War II Reflections lasts approximately 2 hours and covers a variety of locations throughout the historic quarter of Darwin. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. Note that the tour includes a visit to a memorial site and guests will pass through security screening at the rebuilt Post Office building. After the tour, you have the option to walk the paths of Bicentennial Park, view memorials to lives lost during WWII, or enjoy refreshments at a nearby café.

Reviews

Guests who have experienced the Darwin Walking Tour: World War II Reflections have praised the knowledgeable guides for their engaging storytelling, which brings the history of Darwin to life. Visitors have found the tour to be a moving and educational experience, gaining a newfound appreciation for the city's resilience and the sacrifices made during the war. The well-curated itinerary and the opportunity to explore hidden aspects of Darwin's past have garnered glowing reviews from travelers. For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Australia's wartime history, this walking tour is an unmissable experience.

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