Drovers were a common sight in 19th century Britain; they were not "travellers" in the modern sense, just people driving cattle or sheep (or even geese, typically wearing little boots made of tar) to be sold at distant markets. In the days before trains and lorries, you just had to walk. The term has acquired quite a cultural resonance in Australia, but (like "cowboy" in America) it didn't originate there.

Most previous discussions here relate to the Australian experience, but a few touch on other aspects.