Herberton, the oldest town in the Atherton Tablelands.

Herberton, the village in the hills

Herberton, 4887

Queensland’s Oldest Town in the Tablelands. Established in 1880, Herberton is the oldest town in the Atherton Tablelands. Originally built on the back of a booming tin mining industry.
Herberton Historic Village. A living museum with over 60 heritage buildings, including a schoolhouse, blacksmith, general store, and the famous historical village windmill, showcasing life from the late 1800s to the early 1900s.
Herberton Steam Railway and 1905 Peckett Steam Train. Experience a beautifully restored 1905 Peckett Steam Train ride, chugging along the original railway line through scenic countryside.
The Historic Windmill. Located within the Herberton Historic Village, it represents the ingenuity of early settlers who relied on wind power to draw water for their homes and farms.
Herberton Mining Museum & Great Northern Mine. Learn about the town’s tin mining history with interactive displays, heritage-listed mining equipment, and a self-guided walk through the original mine site.
Charming Country Surrounds. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Atherton Tablelands, Herberton offers breathtaking views, lush landscapes, and a peaceful escape into nature.
Step Back in Time. With well-preserved buildings, vintage trains, and fascinating stories of Queensland’s past, Herberton is the perfect destination for history lovers and curious explorers alike.

Population: 855 (2016 census)
Area: 23.3 kilometres
Founded: 1880
Postcode: 4887
Distance from Cairns
- via Gillies Highway 95.7 kilometres driving time 1 hour and 35 minutes
- via Kuranda Range: 111.4 kilometres driving time of 1 hour and 37 minutes

Discover Herberton: Step Back in Time in the Atherton Tablelands

Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Atherton Tablelands, Herberton is a place where history comes to life. As the oldest town in the Tablelands, founded in 1880 during the tin mining boom, this charming destination is packed with fascinating stories, beautifully preserved heritage buildings, and a strong connection to Australia’s pioneering past. If you love stepping back in time, exploring history, and soaking up the beauty of the countryside, Herberton is the perfect place to visit.

Discover the Herberton Historic Village

One of the town’s highlights is an incredible outdoor museum that transports you to the 19th and early 20th centuries. This village is a treasure trove of history with more than 60 fully restored buildings, including a schoolhouse, a working blacksmith, a general store, and an old-fashioned pub. Wander through the charming streets, watch live demonstrations, and experience what life was like for the early settlers. One of the standout features is the historical village windmill, a reminder of the ingenuity of those who relied on wind power to draw water for their homes and farms.

All Aboard the 1905 Peckett Steam Train

If you love heritage trains, you won’t want to miss the Herberton Steam Railway. Home to the beautifully restored 1905 Peckett Steam Train, this railway offers a nostalgic journey along the original tracks, passing through stunning countryside. Feel the engine’s rumble, hear the whistle blow, and watch the steam billow into the sky as you ride on a piece of history. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, this is a must-do in Herberton.

Uncover Herberton’s Mining Past

Herberton was built on tin, and you can explore this fascinating history at the Herberton Mining Museum. This interactive museum showcases the town’s mining roots with hands-on exhibits, heritage-listed mining equipment, and a self-guided walk through the original Great Northern Mine. It’s a great way to understand how early miners shaped the town and the tough conditions they endured to extract the tin that once made Herberton thrive.

Enjoy the Natural Beauty of the Atherton Tablelands

Beyond its incredible history, Herberton is also surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Nestled in the Atherton Tablelands, the town offers fresh mountain air, rolling green hills, and picturesque countryside. Whether you take a scenic drive, visit a nearby waterfall, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, the natural beauty of this region is truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions About Herberton

What is Herberton famous for?

Herberton is best known as the oldest town in the Atherton Tablelands, with a rich tin mining history dating back to 1880. It’s home to the Herberton Historic Village, a fantastic open-air museum with over 60 restored buildings, and the Herberton Steam Railway featuring the beautifully restored 1905 Peckett Steam Train. The town is a must-visit for history lovers and those looking to experience a slice of Queensland’s pioneering past.

How do I get to Herberton?

Herberton is about 90 minutes drive from Cairns and just 15 minutes from Atherton. The scenic drive takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Atherton Tablelands, s.

What can I see at the Herberton Historic Village?

The Herberton Historic Village is like stepping back in time! This outdoor museum features a range of beautifully restored buildings, including an old schoolhouse, a blacksmith’s workshop, a general store, and a working pub. Live demonstrations, fascinating exhibits, and even the iconic historical village windmill were essential for drawing water in the early days. It’s a fantastic experience for all ages!

Can I ride the steam train in Herberton?

Yes! The Herberton Steam Railway offers a nostalgic ride on the 1905 Peckett Steam Train, which once played a key role in the region’s mining industry. Today, visitors can hop aboard and enjoy a scenic trip along the original railway tracks, complete with the sounds of the whistle and the sight of steam billowing into the sky—an unforgettable experience!

Is there accommodation in Herberton?

While Herberton has a few charming B&Bs and country stays, most visitors stay nearby Atherton or Yungaburra, just a short drive away. .

Plan Your Visit to Herberton

A visit to Herberton is like stepping back in time. With its rich history, beautifully preserved buildings, and engaging attractions, this charming town is a must-see destination in the Atherton Tablelands. Whether riding the steam train, exploring the historic village, or learning about its mining past, you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for Queensland’s pioneering history.

So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover one of the Tablelands’ most captivating heritage towns!