There is actually a multitude of reasons to do the Heritage Walking Tour of Port Adelaide… a lot more than seven! Port Adelaide has many well preserved 19th-century buildings, in fact, Port Adelaide has one of the best concentrations of colonial buildings in South Australia. In 1982 a considerable part of the town was declared a State Heritage Area. The “Walk The Port” self-guided heritage walking tour has over 40 points of interest, including 17 heritage listed buildings… so grab the FREE “Walk The Port” map and hit the streets to discover Port Adelaide’s colourful history!

1. Port Admiral Hotel – 1849

The Port Admiral Hotel started trading in 1849 as the Railway Hotel. It is the Port’s oldest surviving original building and the eighth oldest in the state.

Now – After sitting vacant for 10 years, the Port Admiral Hotel has recently undergone a 2 year, million dollar makeover and is now open to the public.

2. The Bond & Free Stores – 1857

These excellent examples of Victorian warehouses were built by Elder & Co. They are constructed with timber floors and posts.

Now – These warehouse buildings have been the home of the South Australian Maritime Museum since 1986.

3. Courts,Customs and Police Station – 1860

The old Courts, Customs and Police Station has undoubtedly played an essential role in Port Adelaide’s history. Built in 1860, it was home to the Port Adelaide Police Force from early 1860 until late 1991. South Australia’s first detective, to be permanently stationed outside of Adelaide’s metropolitan station, was based in Port Adelaide. 

Now – In 1997 it was re-opened as the Port Adelaide Visitor Information Centre.

4. Lighthouse – 1869

This lighthouse has been around! It was first lit in 1869 at the entrance to the Port River. It was then moved to South Neptune Island where it was used until 1985. In 1986, it was decommissioned, dismantled and moved back to Port Adelaide where it was erected at its current site.

Now – It is currently managed by the South Australian Maritime Museum and opens for visiting on weekdays 10:00 to 14:00, and on Sundays 10:00 to 14:00 (closed on Saturdays).

5. Institute Building and Customs House (1876 & 1879)

The former Institute Building and Customs House were once two buildings separated by a narrow lane. By 1979 buildings were remodelled and internal access between both was created.

Now – The building’s façade was restored to its heritage form in 2014. I am not sure what it is being used for now.

6. Divett Chambers – 1881

This building is Port Adelaide’s only example of neo-Gothic architecture. The Chambers formerly housed the offices of the port reporters for The Advertiser newspaper. They dictated the news to Adelaide via the telephone.

Now – Divett Chambers has now become two private apartments.

7. Courthouse – 1882

This Victorian colonial building was opened in 1882 to replace existing facilities that were deemed to be very unsatisfactory. There was no waiting area for those involved with a trial, and the stench on a busy court day was said to be “beyond description”.

Now – It was restored in 1997 as the Council Chambers for the City of Port Adelaide Enfield.

So, that is just 7 reasons to get down to Port Adelaide and do the Heritage Walking Tour! While you are in Port Adelaide you may also want to visit the  The South Australian Aviation Museum, The South Australian Maritime Museum, The National Railway Museum and The City of Adelaide.

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