Just 5km from Cromwell on the southern extension of Barry Avenue is the expanding village of Bannockburn. In its heyday as the centre of gold sluicing operations, it was a thriving community with hotels and stores to serve its large mining population. But as the gold ran out the population drifted away leaving the village to its quiet charm. Stop at the Bannockburn Bridge and view the “Bannockburn. Heart of the Desert” sign erected by locals. The two supporting pillars have been relocated rock by rock from the original suspension bridge that spanned the Kawarau River.
There is an excellent bowling green, a hotel and some interesting old houses and buildings. Two camping grounds serve the holiday visitors - one along Domain Road, and the other on Cairnmuir Road. Bannockburn is an area that is best explored on foot. Take your car further up the hill and turn right into Hall Road at the end of which is a quaint little church and magnificent view along the Clutha Valley and Lake Dunstan.
For those who wish to explore the old mining claims enquire at the Cromwell Information Centre for the Walk Cromwell brochure that includes the Bannockburn Sluicings along Felton Road. Well-marked tracks lead to the strange but beautiful lunar-like landscapes that have been carved out of the cliffs by the sluicing gangs. The Bannockburn Inlet is an excellent spot for a picnic and fossickers with the right technique and a little bit of luck can still find a trace of colour in the bottom of a gold pan. Turn left onto Cairnmuir Road, the first road over the bridge.
Since the formation of Lake Dunstan allowed for greater irrigation opportunities, the Bannockburn area has been transformed with numerous vineyard developments. Take a trip along Felton Road and Cairnmuir Road to discover vineyards, wineries and wine tasting/food opportunities. It is also the entranceway to the Nevis Valley which eventually links with Garston some 75km away via a 4WD track.