I met Australian Ash White and his family whilst visiting the Canadian skiing town of Whistler and we instantly hit it off! We have since collaborated by doing podcasts through his Milne Road Studio — connecting Liverpool and Adelaide and educating both sides of the world about each other. He has visited Liverpool and New Brighton with his wife Mandy and now he gives us an Insider’s Guide to Adelaide….
When people think of Australia, cities like Sydney and Melbourne often steal the spotlight. But according to Adelaide local Ash White, South Australia’s capital offers something many larger cities have lost: simplicity. “In one word,” he says, “Adelaide is easy.”
It’s that relaxed, accessible lifestyle that makes Adelaide one of Australia’s most underrated destinations. Home to around 1.5 million people, the city combines vibrant urban living with beaches, wineries, rolling hills and dramatic outback landscapes — all within easy reach.
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Adelaide’s compact CBD is one of its biggest strengths. The city’s transport network makes getting around straightforward, with trains connecting the north, south and west, while buses service the north-eastern suburbs. Just north of the city centre lies North Adelaide, known for its village atmosphere, leafy streets, cafés and restaurants, boutique shopping and panoramic views back across the skyline.
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Ash says: “Head west and within minutes you’ll arrive at Glenelg, Adelaide’s famous beachside suburb. Golden sands, seaside cafés and a lively marina. To the east, the elegant suburbs of Norwood, Toorak Gardens and Burnside provide excellent shopping before the landscape rises into the Adelaide Hills. From around 700 metres above sea level, you can enjoy sweeping views across the city.”
He continues: “Within an hour you’ll find the vineyards of McLaren Vale to the south and the Barossa Valley around Tanunda to the north. Travel a little further and Victor Harbor offers classic seaside charm, while the spectacular Flinders Ranges showcase Australia’s rugged outback with red earth, deep gorges and unforgettable scenery.”
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Adelaide enjoys a Mediterranean climate that’s perfect for outdoor living. Ash and Mandy have enjoyed many ‘barbies’ and pool parties with family and friends. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching between 25°C and 45°C. Rain is infrequent, although summer thunderstorms occasionally break the heat.
Winter is mild by Australian standards, with daytime temperatures generally ranging from around 12°C into the low twenties. Rainfall is modest throughout the year, while the nearby Mount Lofty Ranges can even experience the occasional dusting of snow. For visitors escaping colder climates, Adelaide offers plenty of sunshine regardless of the season.
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Ash believes Adelaide represents excellent value for visitors from the UK. He says: “With a favourable exchange rate, British pounds stretch considerably further than many travellers expect. Visitors can enjoy a pub meal, locally made pies from iconic brands such as Balfours and Vili’s, quality steaks, and affordable public transport using multi-day MetroCARD passes. Adelaide delivers excellent value without compromising on quality.”
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From Brighton through Glenelg to Semaphore, Adelaide’s coastline offers relaxed beach culture, fish and chips by the water, surf clubs, pubs and spectacular sunsets. Few destinations combine wine, food and scenery quite like McLaren Vale and the Barossa Valley. Outdoor dining, cellar doors and artisan produce make these regions essential day trips. Food and hospitality are central to Adelaide life, and Ash has no shortage of recommendations.
He recommends: “The Fox and Firkin, The Gully Public House, The Prairie Hotel, Marion Bay Tavern and the Port Lincoln Hotel are all great pubs. Within the CBD, there are great venues such as the Union Hotel, Hennessy Rooftop Bar, Maybe Mae, Black Bull Bar, The Lion Hotel, Fumo Blu, Alfred’s Bar and Eos at Adelaide Casino. When it comes to restaurants, Part Time Lover, Le Pas Sage and Penny Blue are all quality but there are far too many excellent eateries to mention.”
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Ask Ash what every visitor should experience and the list comes quickly. Whether it’s Australian Rules football, cricket or a major concert, Adelaide Oval is one of Australia’s finest sporting venues. Visitors can even climb onto the stadium roof or take a guided tour of the historic ground. The riverside area around Adelaide Casino offers restaurants, bars, scenic walks and easy access to the Festival Theatre, making it one of the city’s entertainment hubs.
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Despite its modest size, Adelaide punches well above its weight for live music. “Popular venues include Hindley Street, The Gov, The Entertainment Centre, The Wheatsheaf Hotel, The Grace Emily Hotel, Memphis Slim’s, Clovercrest Hotel and the Crown and Anchor,” Ash explains. “For those looking to continue into the early hours, nightlife venues such as Aurora Lab, Aphrodite Lounge, Nineteen Ten and Ballers Clubhouse keep the city lively after dark.“
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The historic towns stretching along Australia’s iconic Murray River offer country pubs, independent shops, authentic local hospitality and a slower pace of life. Away from work, Ash enjoys mountain biking throughout the Adelaide Hills. Trails at Eagle Mountain Bike Park, Fox Creek, Cobbler Creek, O’Halloran Hill and Belair National Park provide everything from beginner rides to technical downhill tracks.
Golf is another favourite pastime, with numerous public courses located throughout Adelaide and the surrounding hills, making the sport both affordable and accessible. What Ash loves most about Adelaide is its balance. “It reminds me of Liverpool,” he says. “It’s easy to get around, with quick access in and out of the CBD.”
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He believes major infrastructure projects currently underway will transform the city even further over the coming decade, improving traffic flow and strengthening Adelaide’s position as one of Australia’s most liveable cities. But even today, the combination of beaches, wineries, warm weather, great food and friendly locals makes Adelaide stand apart.
His advice to visitors is simple: “Come as you are. Experience the relaxed lifestyle, soak up the sunshine, wander through Adelaide Central Market, sample local food and wine, and discover Australia’s character beyond the better-known cities,” he says. “Visit Adelaide now, before it grows up too much — and if time allows, don’t miss Kangaroo Island — another unforgettable South Australian adventure waiting just offshore.”
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