As one of Barossa's oldest townships, Angaston boasts many well-preserved buildings and historic sites. The best way to explore these is to follow the
heritage trail which covers a distance of approximately three kilometres. I would suggest allowing at least an hour to fully discover all the stories as you wander through the beautiful streets. Some of the locations worth mentioning are the railway station, old police station & courthouse, town hall, hotel, blacksmith shop, original cemetery, post & telegraph office and soldiers' memorial reserve. A map of the trail can be downloaded from
here.
Railway station
The Angaston Railway Precinct re-development is an example of how heritage has been integrated into present-day living. Built in 1911, the railway and its station had increased the prosperity of the township. Both passenger and freight trains regularly operated to and from Adelaide. After the last trip was made in 2004, Barossa Council eventually restored the station building and established the surrounding area as a recreation facility. Today, the
Barossa Adventure Station features a mega tower and play deck, a zip wire, a skate ramp, fitness stations and a mountain bike loop. If you're feeling energetic, you can also walk/cycle all the way to Nuriootpa along a dedicated six-kilometre trail starting from the railway station. Car parking is available just off Kent Street.
Soldiers' memorial reserve
Built by John Doddridge, the
blacksmith shop was once an essential trade in the village. It was managed by three generations until 1981. Its contents and building were then purchased by the local community and historical society. On weekends, you are welcome to visit this
working museum and learn more about the art of blacksmithing.
Barossa Adventure Station
Saturday is market day with loads of fresh seasonal produce and local products being showcased at the
Barossa Farmers Market. Besides all the fruit and vegetable stalls, my absolute favourite would have to be
Eleni Barossa Handmade whose pastries, buns and tarts are to die for. Everything is made from scratch using traditional methods and carefully-sourced ingredients. The market can be found at the corner of Angaston Road and Stockwell Road.
Angaston - Nuriootpa trail
For cheese lovers, you'd want to check out the
Barossa Valley Cheese Company on Murray Street. They have been hand-making artisan cheese since 2003. Their cheese cellar offer a range of delicious cheeses as well as gourmet condiments and superb accompaniments. A sit-down tasting is also available every day except Tuesdays.
Barossa Valley Cheese Company
So, do be sure that Angaston is on the itinerary next time you're visiting the Barossa region. Approximately an hour's drive will get you there from Adelaide.
