--- title: Frequently Asked Questions date: 2026-05-07T04:08:17Z modified: 2026-09-03T08:03:13Z permalink: "https://mrdhs.com.au/visit/" type: page status: publish excerpt: "" wpid: 3691 parent: "" ancestors: [] children: [] timestamp: 2026-09-03T08:03:13Z tags: [] --- #### Plan Your Visit Everything you need to know before your visit to the Margaret River Historical Society at The Old Settlement Museum. ## Things to Do in Margaret River: A Historical Day Trip ▸What is there to do in Margaret River besides wineries?Beyond the vineyards, you can explore the region's rich pioneer and timber history right on the banks of the river. A perfect afternoon involves walking through the Old Settlement Museum, grabbing a coffee at the neighboring [Hairy Marron Café](https://www.thehairymarron.com/), and hiking the [Bunnitj Biddi trail](https://www.railtrails.org.au/trails/ten-mile-brook-trail/), which follows the path of the old timber tramways directly from the settlement into the lush forest. ▸How can I spend a historical day trip in Margaret River?Start your morning at the Margaret River and Districts Historical Society, located at the Old Settlement. Here, you can step inside the original Bramley School and explore our historic blacksmith's workshop. Next, take a short stroll across the river via the footbridge to [Rotary Park](https://www.margaretriver.com/things-to-do/attractions/mazes-parks-gardens/rotary-park-margaret-river/) to see [Old Kate](https://inherit.dplh.wa.gov.au/public/inventory/printsinglerecord/4462a597-40a5-4735-b86c-0fc097950caf), the legendary 1890s steam locomotive that hauled timber during the region's early logging days. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive out to [Ellensbrook Homestead](https://www.nationaltrustwa.com.au/places-to-visit/ellensbrook/). Built in the 1850s, this National Trust heritage property is one of the region's most important early pioneer homes and offers a deep dive into both colonial history and the traditional Wadandi custodians of the land. ▸What is the history of the Margaret River region?The history of Margaret River spans tens of thousands of years on Wadandi Boodja, the traditional land of the Wadandi (Saltwater) People. In the 1830s, the first European pioneer families arrived, followed by a massive timber boom in the late 1800s that saw tramways carved into the ancient forests. The 1920s brought the Group Settlement Scheme, which established the local dairy industry. Later, in the 1960s, traveling surfers discovered the region's world-class coastal breaks, transforming the area once again. You can explore artifacts and stories from all these pivotal eras at the Old Settlement Museum. ## Visitor Information for the Old Settlement Museum ▸Where is the Margaret River & Districts Historical Society located?The Historical Society is located at: **The Old Settlement Museum** 69 Bussell Highway Margaret River WA 6285 The museum is nestled beside the river, next to The Hairy Marron Café. Access is via Higgins Street [![Margaret River Historical Society at The Old Settlement Museum](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Margaret-River-Historical-Society-at-The-Old-Settlement-Museum.jpg) ](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/margaret-river-districts-historical-society.md#directions) ▸What are the opening hours?Our regular opening hours are\*: - Tuesday: 10:00am – 12:30pm - Thursday: 1:30pm – 4:00pm - Saturday: 10:00am – 3:00pm \* Please note that opening hours are subject to the availability of volunteers. Information about entrance fees and opening hours can be found on our [Visitor Information](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/admission.md) page. ▸Is there an entrance fee?Yes, a small entrance fee applies to support the preservation and maintenance of the museum and its collection - Adults $5 - Children are free Information about entrance fees and opening hours can be found on our [Visitor Information](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/admission.md) page. ▸What payment methods do you accept?We accept both cash and card payments via EFTPOS for all [museum entry fees](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/admission.md), [book purchases](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/books-for-sale.md), shop items, and [donations](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/donate.md). ▸Where can I park?Access and parking is available at The Old Settlement via Higgins Street. Additional parking is available at Rotary Park on the opposite side of the river. A short, scenic walk across the footbridge brings you directly to the Old Settlement. ▸Is the museum wheelchair accessible?Yes, the site is wheelchair friendly, and all of our heritage buildings are accessible. ▸Can I bring my dog?Yes, dogs are more than welcome to visit the Old Settlement with you, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a leash at all times. ▸Is the museum open on public holidays?Opening hours on public holidays vary depending on volunteer availability. We recommend checking our [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/MargaretRiverDistrictsHistoricalSociety) before visiting on or around a public holiday, or [contacting us](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/contact.md) in advance. ▸How long does a visit take?Most visitors spend between 45 minutes and 1½ hours exploring the museum and heritage buildings. Allow an additional hour if you wish to watch the historical documentary about the early British immigration to Western Australia. If you plan to also walk the Margaret River Heritage Trail, visit Rotary Park, or grab a coffee at The Hairy Marron Café next door, allow at least half a day to make the most of it. ▸Can I take photos during my visit?Yes, photography is welcome! We’d love it if you tagged us in your photos on social media or left a review on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/MargaretRiverDistrictsHistoricalSociety), [Google](https://maps.app.goo.gl/kYo6k4TKx3s34cxK7) or [TripAdvisor](https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Attraction_Review-g255367-d15317565-Reviews-Old_Settlement-Margaret_River_Margaret_River_Region_Western_Australia.html). ▸Is there somewhere to eat nearby?Yes, [The Hairy Marron Café](https://www.thehairymarron.com/) is located right next to the museum at the Old Settlement. It's a great spot for coffee and a meal before or after your visit. They also hire out mountain bikes if you'd like to explore the nearby trails. ▸Are there toilets on-site?Yes, public toilet facilities are available nearby at the Old Settlement for your convenience. ▸What else can I do near the Old Settlement Museum in Margaret River?The Old Settlement Museum makes a perfect starting point for a full day of family-friendly activities, riverside walks, and outdoor adventures right on the edge of the Margaret River township. When you visit the museum, you can easily make a day of it with these nearby attractions: - Relax at Rotary Park: Located directly across the river via a short, scenic walk over the wooden footbridge. It features a great children’s playground, picnic tables, barbecues, clean public amenities, and a chance to see the legendary 1890s steam locomotive, ‘Old Kate’. - Enjoy Coffee & Dining: Stop by our immediate neighbours at The Hairy Marron Café, where you can enjoy a coffee or snack on the deck overlooking the beautiful Margaret River. - Explore Walking Trails: The Old Settlement sits at the immediate trailhead for several iconic local walks: - Bunnitj Biddi (formerly Ten Mile Brook Trail): A stunning 15km return trail that follows old timber tramways along the river through lush bushland all the way to the Ten Mile Brook Dam. - Margaret River Heritage Trail: A gentle, easy stroll along the river perfect for families. - Minnie Keenan Trail & Chimney Trail Loop: Connects Rotary Park to the Wadandi Track at Carters Road. Take this moderate trail into Wooditjup National Park to view the historic remnants and brick chimney of Keenan’s Number 1 Mill. - Mountain Biking: You can hire a mountain bike directly from The Hairy Marron right next to the museum and hit the world-class single tracks winding through the surrounding forest. Whether you want to relax with a coffee, dive deeper into timber milling history, or hike through the karri and jarrah trees, there is plenty to do just steps from the museum gates. ## The Museum Experience ▸Is the museum suitable for children and families?Absolutely! We love seeing families explore our history together. Children receive free entry, and there is plenty to spark their curiosity, including our restored 1920s schoolroom and heritage grounds. To make a full day of it, you can grab a bite next door at The Hairy Marron Café, hire mountain bikes to hit the forest trails, or stroll across the footbridge to Rotary Park, which features a playground, picnic areas, and the historic 1890s "Old Kate" steam locomotive. ▸What can I see inside the museum?The Old Settlement is a time capsule of 1920s Group Settlement life. Key highlights include the restored 1925 Bramley School, an authentic "Groupie" settler’s house, and our historic blacksmith’s workshop. You will also find extensive displays of farming implements and tools, plus a small theatre inside the blacksmith's shop that screens a short film detailing the history of the region. ▸Can I buy books during my visit?Yes, our full range of local history books are available for purchase on-site (cash or EFTPOS). You can browse our collection beforehand on our [books for sale page](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/books-for-sale.md). If you can't make it to the museum, you can also order books online via our [contact form](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/contact.md) (postage fees apply). ## School Groups & Tours ▸Can we bring a school group?Absolutely but only by appointment. The Old Settlement is a wonderful destination for school excursions. Students can explore the old schoolroom, try everyday settler tasks, and discover what life was really like in early Margaret River. Our volunteer guides tailor the experience to your group's age and curriculum needs. [Contact us](/contact/) for more information and bookings. ▸Do you offer guided tours for other groups?We welcome community groups, tourism groups, and other organisations. Please [get in touch](/contact/) to discuss your requirements and we'll do our best to accommodate you. ## Research & Our Collection ▸Can I research my family history or local genealogy?Yes, the Historical Society holds an extensive collection of local photographs, documents, and records relating to families and early settlers of the Margaret River region. If you're researching your family's connection to the area, we encourage you to [contact us](/contact/). ▸Can I access historical photographs or documents?A selection of our historical photographs is available to browse on our [photo collections](/people-collection/) pages. For access to specific records or documents not published online, please [contact us](/contact/) directly. ▸Can I donate an artefact, photograph, or document to the collection?We welcome donations of items relating to the history of Margaret River and the surrounding districts. If you have something you'd like to offer, please [get in touch](/contact/) first so we can discuss whether it's a good fit for the collection and arrange a time to assess it. ## About the Society ▸Who are the Margaret River & Districts Historical Society?We are a dedicated group of volunteers focused on collecting, preserving, and sharing the unique history of Margaret River and its surrounding districts. Based at the Old Settlement Museum, we care for a growing collection of photographs, documents, oral histories, and artefacts. We work to keep these local stories alive through exhibitions, community events, and school programs. You can learn more about us [here](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/about-us.md). ▸Is the museum run by volunteers?Yes, we are an entirely volunteer-run organisation. From guiding visitors through the schoolroom to preserving our fragile archives, everything we do is powered by our local volunteers. Because of this, our opening hours can occasionally change; please check our [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/MargaretRiverDistrictsHistoricalSociety) or [contact us](https://mrdhs.com.au/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/contact.md) to confirm before you visit. ## Membership, Volunteering & Donations ▸How do I become a member?Membership is open to anyone with an interest in the history of Margaret River and the surrounding districts. Visit our [membership page](/membership-and-meetings/) for details on how to join and what membership includes. ▸How do I volunteer?We rely entirely on our wonderful volunteers to keep the museum running. Whether you'd like to help with guiding visitors, collections management, research, or maintenance, we'd love to hear from you. Visit our [volunteering page](/volunteering/) to find out more. ▸How can I make a donation?Donations help us preserve and share Margaret River's unique history for future generations. You can make a contribution via our [donate page](/donate/). Every amount, large or small, makes a real difference to a volunteer-run organisation like ours. ## Contact ▸Still have a question?We're happy to help. Get in touch and one of our volunteers will get back to you. [Contact Us](/contact/)