Mannum on the Lower Murray

Mannum is situated along the broad reaches of the Lower Murray. Here, river scenery and maritime history meet walking trails, on-water experiences and a 54-kilometre cycling route. This gives you a range of options for your stay, such as heritage sites and historic vessels, cultural history along local trails, or activities on the river.

Maritime history in Mannum

The heritage-listed Randell Dry Dock is the only dry dock on the Murray-Darling river system. The PS Marion also tells the story of the Murray River: built in 1897, it is one of the river’s most significant historic heritage vessels. The Mannum Dock Discovery Centre includes the PS Marion, the paddle steamer Mayflower and the historic Randell Dry Dock. The Centre also features interactive exhibits.

Visitors can explore the decks of the PS Marion and see the engine room. Check the latest operating details before you travel. The vessels, dry dock and interactive exhibits offer different perspectives, from the engineering of a historic dock to experiences on board.

Walking trails and activities on the river

Three local heritage walks showcase Mannum’s cultural history. Two have stated route lengths and estimated walking times: the Randell Walk is 2.5 kilometres long and takes an estimated one to one and a half hours. Its gradient profile is steep. The Shearer Walk covers 2 kilometres; allow around half an hour to one hour, and expect uphill sections. Local conditions can affect the routes. When comparing them, consider both the estimated time and the gradient profile of each walk.

The Mannum Canoe Trail lets you explore the Murray around Mannum by canoe or kayak. Check conditions and current equipment arrangements beforehand. This allows you to consider this on-water option when planning a day of walking trails or visits to maritime heritage sites, without assuming a particular duration.

For a longer cycling route, the Murray Plains Cycle Trek starts at the Information Centre in Mannum and runs for 54 kilometres to the Travelers Rest Stop in Sedan. The route follows existing public roads. The information specifies the start, finish and distance; no riding time is given.

The Mannum Waterfalls are close to Mannum. Walking trails follow Reedy Creek to the waterfalls, with sections that range from moderately to steeply uphill. Access is on foot from one of two car parks. When planning, bear in mind that trail conditions and seasonal suitability can change.

A glimpse of local life

The Mannum Markets are held on the first Sunday of each month in Arnold Park, near the ferries in Mannum. Stalls offer items including food, handmade jewellery, local crafts, plants, candles and fresh produce. What individual stalls offer can vary by date and stallholder; check the latest event details before you go.

Planning your stay in Mannum

When looking for a holiday rental in Mannum, your preferred daily rhythm can be a good starting point: would you like to focus on maritime history and heritage walks, spend time on the water, or tackle a longer cycling route? Estimated walking times are provided for the walks; the Cycle Trek is defined by its 54-kilometre distance.

Discover more destinations: Keyneton, Walker Flat.

For the broader travel overview: Mid Murray Council.