Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Find tranquillity in the Australian Capital Territory with the 5km London Bridge Walk, an easy circuit trail nestled within the Googong Foreshores, just a short trip from Burra. Kicking off from the London Bridge Car Park, the walk guides you across the historic London Bridge Arch to the heritage-listed London Bridge Homestead. Get a sneak peek of the homestead behind the security fence and explore the outbuildings and original woolshed. Don't miss the arch, a natural wonder formed over 420 million years ago, and remember to check with the Ranger Station for possible open days.

Length:

5km

Duration:

2 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 726m

Min elevation: 670m

Total Ascent: 108m

Start: London Bridge Car Park

End: London Bridge Car Park

Googong Foreshores

Australian Capital Territory

Nearby town: Burra

From state capital: 40km

Latitude: -35.51068394403683

Longitude: 149.2583011449683

Overview

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Region

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Hike overview

The London Bridge Walk is a pleasant 5km circuit trail located within the Googong Foreshores of the Australian Capital Territory. This easy, two-hour walk is perfect for those seeking a leisurely exploration of the area's natural and cultural heritage.

Your journey begins at the London Bridge car park. Crossing Burra Creek via the historic London Bridge Arch, you'll soon find yourself on the path leading to the London Bridge Homestead, a significant property listed on the National Estate.

The return route takes you along a management trail, offering glimpses of the homestead through a security fence. Fortunately, many of the outbuildings and remains of the original woolshed stand outside the fence, free to explore at your leisure. Open days are also occasionally held, allowing a closer look at the homestead itself. Be sure to contact the Ranger Station for details on upcoming open days.

As you wander the trails, take a moment to appreciate the awe-inspiring London Bridge Arch. Formed over 420 million years ago from compressed seabed sediment and coral, this natural wonder has been shaped by time and water erosion. Imagine Captain Mark Currie, the first European to lay eyes on this arch in 1823, marveling at its "perfect Saxon arch."

The Googong Foreshores hold deep significance for the Ngunnawal people, who have inhabited and cared for this land for millennia. The Queanbeyan River served as a vital pathway for the Ngunnawal and their neighbours, connecting them to hunting grounds and ceremonial sites. The London Bridge Arch itself is considered a place of spiritual importance. Please treat all cultural heritage sites within the Foreshores with respect.

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Walk map and GPX file
London Bridge Walk (5km)

Total distance: 4583 m
Max elevation: 726 m
Min elevation: 670 m
Total climbing: 108 m
Total descent: -108 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Googong Foreshores.

Googong Foreshores is located 10 kilometres south of Queanbeyan, NSW. The London Bridge area is a further 10 kilometres south. The area is managed by ACT Parks and Conservation Service for water catchment, recreation and as a wildlife refuge.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Banks, Bungendore, Canberra, Fyshwick, Googong, Jerrabomberra, Narrabundah, Pialligo, Queanbeyan, Tharwa, Tuggeranong, Uriarra Village, Yass

Access conditions

2WD Access
Gravel Road
Small Car Park
Public Toilets
Picnic Table

About the region

Located 10 kilometres south of Queanbeyan, Googong Foreshores is a great place to observe wildlife and go canoeing, fishing and mountain biking. It also has a fascinating historic homestead and London Bridge Arch. The entire Foreshores area is a Wildlife Refuge.

Whether you like picnicking, birdwatching, bushwalking, mountain bike riding, enjoy sailing and fishing or delving into history - at Googong there's something for everyone.

In the north of Googong Foreshores is the Googong Dam with lookouts, walking trails, BBQ and boating facilities. To the south off Burra Road, the historic London Bridge Homestead beckons visitors to explore the history of farming and settlement in the area. A remarkable natural feature in this area is London Bridge Arch which formed over thousands of years.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Googong Foreshores? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

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London Bridge Walk (5km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
London Bridge Walk (5km)