Gwalia Museum & Hoover House Cafe - Leonora, Western Australia

Ray S.

What an absolute gem! Visiting the Gwalia Museum and Hoover House was such a highlight. Not only is the history fascinating and beautifully presented, but the atmosphere is just wonderful.

I have to say, the coffee at Hoover House was AMAZING – rich, smooth, and easily one of the best I’ve had in a long time. The ladies working there were so welcoming, friendly, and genuinely happy, which made the experience even better. Their warmth really adds to the charm of the place and makes you feel at home.

Between the incredible history, the relaxed and inviting vibe, and the delicious coffee, I can’t recommend this place enough. If you’re in the area, do yourself a favour and stop by – you won’t regret it!

Crian M.

Visited Hoover House as part of the museum at Gwalia. Didn't actually stay, so I can't comment on the rooms, although pictures look quite pleasant.
Had a late lunch/snack, being quite a nice toasted sandwich and coffee, at a reasonable price. Service was good.
Entry is via donation, going a long way to preserving all this history.
Checked out the display, and if you catch up with Wendy, the curator, she is a wealth of knowledge. Herbert Hoover, before becoming the 31st President of the US, actually commissioned the home building for himself as mine manager at Gwalia, but never actually lived in it.

We were transfixed by the museum with all the history surrounding the pit and transformation into what it is today.
There is a fair bit to see, more so the museum area and buildings, so if it piques your interest, like mine, you'll lose 4 hrs or so, without a worry.
Pretty much wheelchair friendly, but there are a few sloped spots and possibly a few narrow doorways.
There is a video playing inside I highly recommend. It shows you what and how things are actually happening 1.6km below ground, and proposed expansion works to go 3km down. You just don't fully comprehend what is involved.
Loved it.

Greg C.

Loved this museum and mine site. The first nations display talking about the last people out of the desert was incredible.

I had a wonderful discussion with the very informative volunteer team.

Craig O.

So much to see here in such a small area. Full of information of history and current mining goin on right next door. A short walk down the hill to the old town sites and buildings. All for free. Great experience.

James C.

Just had an apple pie and drink from the Cafe in the Hover building part of the museum. Best apple pie I have had in a long time.
Add to this, the friendly staff, the history and the open pit mine make this a highly recommended visit.

David W.

This is a fantastic place, a look at a bygone era that makes you realise how tough the people that lived here must have been, we've been here for 2 days checking the place out and have to come back again because we still haven't seen it all.

Ang ?.

Very interesting stories about the Gwalia mine and the machinery (old) they also have a treasure hunt for kids with questions they find the answers to around the museum and surrounding displays and they get a lollipop for answering it correctly for the little ones if they make a mistake they still get their lollipop it was a good day and educational

Cassey T.

Great little place to visit. Best scones in the cafe! The lady at the front was VERY helpful and informative