Silverton, outback NSW, is a place that few outback localities are as iconic and attract visitors from far and wide to this little town on the edge of the real outback. Visitors come to experience what was once a thriving mining town, which later becomes a ghost town, only to be currently re-inventing itself as the lively destination of museums, art galleries and unique cafes and gift shops. Add to that a VERY iconic pub adorned with images of films made in the area, including Mad Max with Mel Gibson.
Silverton, Outback NSW
The World's Most Lively Ghost Town
Silverton is a historic outback town located approximately 25 km northwest of Broken Hill in NSW, famous as the filming location of Mad Max 2, Wake in Fright, and other iconic Australian films. Once a thriving silver-mining town of 3,000 people in the 1880s, it reinvented itself as a lively destination of museums, art galleries, the iconic Silverton Hotel, and the stunning Mundi Mundi Plains lookout.
While not actually on the Darling River Run, Silverton is one destination that should be included when travelling the Darling River Run! Few outback localities are as iconic and attract visitors from far and wide to this little town on the edge of the real outback.
Visitors come to experience what was once a thriving mining town, which later became a ghost town, only to reinvent itself as the lively destination of museums, art galleries, and unique cafes and gift shops.
Add to that a VERY iconic pub adorned with images of films made in the area, including Mad Max with Mel Gibson.
About Silverton
While not actually on the Darling River, it is one destination that should be included when travelling the Darling River Run!
Silverton is known to many as the most thriving and healthy-looking ghost town in the world. It is one of those places in outback Australia that most people have heard of, thanks mostly to it being the location of many scenes of the cult classic Mad Max — as well as other well-known Australian films.
During the 1880s, areas around the Barrier Ranges were bustling with activity as mining claims spread throughout the area as many sought their fortunes from mining. To service the needs of miners, the township of Silverton was established.
Originally called Umberumberka, Silverton came into existence in the early 1880s, proclaimed as a town in 1883, the same year it got a post office, and within a few years supported a population of 3,000 people. With the emergence of mining in Broken Hill in the late 1880s, the residents began to leave Silverton for the booming activity of Broken Hill — in fact, many didn't just leave, they actually moved their houses as well to the new centre.
Silverton Today — What to See & Do
Today, Silverton is the most lively ghost town there is. The Silverton Hotel at the Burke Street corner has been used in films as diverse as Wake in Fright, Mad Max 2, A Town Like Alice, Hostage, Razorback, Journey into Darkness and Golden Soak. A drink at the historic pub is a must for any visit, as is the Silverton Pioneer Museum, the Gaol and Court House, and the various local galleries.
Film crews are drawn to the place due to its close proximity to Broken Hill, predictable weather, and iconic buildings and surrounding landscapes. Just beyond the town is Mundi Mundi Plain, which provides an insight into the vast flatness of Outback Australia. The view is spectacular and one can see forever to the horizon. Some say that you can see so far that you can see tomorrow.
The area is truly remarkable and is a 'must-see' for travellers, and is located about 25 km northwest of Broken Hill.
Silverton Visitor Information
Silverton See & Do
- Silverton Gaol
- Silverton museums & galleries
- DayDream Mine
- Camel rides
- Mundi Mundi Plains lookout
Getting to Silverton (by Car)
- From Brisbane: 1,560 km
- From Sydney: 1,160 km
- From Melbourne: 850 km
- From Adelaide: 525 km
Silverton Information Centre
- Beyond 39 Dips — 2 Layard Street,
- Silverton, NSW 2880
- Telephone 08 8088 7566
Drive to Broken Hill
Silverton Photo Gallery
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Silverton?
Silverton is located approximately 25 km northwest of Broken Hill in Far West NSW. It sits on the edge of the real outback, just beyond the Barrier Ranges, with the vast Mundi Mundi Plain stretching to the horizon beyond the town.
What films were made at Silverton?
Silverton has been used as a filming location for many iconic Australian films including Mad Max 2 (with Mel Gibson), Wake in Fright, A Town Like Alice, Hostage, Razorback, Journey into Darkness, and Golden Soak. The Silverton Hotel's walls are covered in film memorabilia from these productions.
What is there to do in Silverton?
Top things to do in Silverton include visiting the iconic Silverton Hotel, exploring the Silverton Pioneer Museum, the Gaol and Court House, local art galleries, taking a camel ride, visiting DayDream Mine, and driving out to the Mundi Mundi Plains lookout where the vast flatness of outback Australia stretches to the horizon.
Is Silverton worth visiting?
Absolutely. Silverton is regarded as the most thriving and healthy-looking ghost town in the world — a unique and fascinating place with a remarkable history, iconic pub, galleries, and the extraordinary Mundi Mundi Plain on its doorstep. It is a must-visit when passing through or staying in Broken Hill.
How do I get to Silverton from Broken Hill?
Silverton is approximately 25 km northwest of Broken Hill via a sealed road. It makes an easy and highly recommended half-day or full-day trip from Broken Hill.
Explore the Broken Hill Region
Silverton is just the beginning — Broken Hill and its surrounds offer some of the most remarkable outback experiences in Australia. Plan your drive, explore the Darling River, and browse outback photography from the region.