Winchelsea’s rich cultural heritage and country village feel will delight and enthral you.
What do Australia’s first rabbits, a Prince and the Austin Hospital have in common? Find out at Barwon Park Mansion, Winchelsea’s star attraction.
I am the voice of the land with a story to tell.
I’m the grandeur of the mansion, the pride of the town.
I am a genteel reminder of what once was. I am a foray into finer times.
Near the Barwon Hotel a beautiful bluestone triple-arched bridge crosses the Barwon River. There are a number of picnic spots and walks along the river. Early morning walkers have, on occasion, spotted a platypus close to the bridge.
A leader in ostrich breeding, Hastings Ostrich Farm exports ostriches and ostrich goods all over the world. Scheduled tours of the farm run every Sunday from November-May at 11am and 1:30pm, departing from The Vault retail store on Main Street Winchelsea. Bookings are essential.
Spending an afternoon to explore the Winchelsea Heritage Trail is well worth it. The trail commences at the Winchelsea Visitor Centre and includes a series of landmarks in and around the township.
Barwon Park, The Globe Theatre, Winchlesea Railway Station and the triple-arched bluestone bridge are highlights.
Built in 1871 the lavish bluestone Barwon Park Mansion is a must see when in Winchelsea.
Tours operate on Wednesday and Sundays and the opulent manor and gardens play host to various functions and events.
Built by Thomas Austin, famous for introducing the rabbit to Australia!
Near the Winchelsea Hotel in the centre of town, a 3-span bluestone arch bridge (1867) folds over the Barwon River.
The bridge is considered one of the most impressive stone structures in Victoria.
Country Dahlias offers Australia’s largest collection of top quality Dahlias. Spread across two acres, the garden has over 20,000 bushes and approximately 2,250 different types! Visit during March and April Australia’s each year – bring a picnic lunch with you and enjoy the surrounds. Tea and coffee are available.
195 Mathison Road
Winchelsea
(03) 526702389
Take a drive around the historic Marjorie Lawrence Trail to explore the life of one of the world’s most adored dramatic sopranos. Born in Dean’s Marsh, Marjorie found world fame in New York in 1935. Copies of the trail map can be obtained from the Winchelsea Visitor Information Centre. Don’t forget your camera! Winchelsea’s historic origins are clearly visible in town, with some grand buildings including the Barwon Park Mansion. Spending an afternoon to explore the Winchelsea Heritage Trail is well worth it. The trail commences at the Winchelsea Visitor Centre and includes landmarks such as the Globe Theatre, the Barwon River, the triple-arched bluestone bridge and the Winchelsea Railway Station, which houses a steam-hauled passenger train. Visit the Winchelsea Visitor Information Centre for details.
Riverbank Reserve A multi-age playground that includes junior area with double swing, 3 slides, bridge, fireman’s pole and climbing area. Location: Barwon Terrace, Winchelsea
Dwyer Street Playground Playground includes combination unit with slide and fireman’s pole, double swing set, two spring rockers. Location: Dwyer Street, Winchelsea
Winchelsea Skate Park Hesse Street (next to community house)
Beside the banks of the Barwon River at the Riverside Reserve there are picnic tables & toilet facilities and an undercover BBQ area. Gather supplies from one of the local cafes and enjoy the ambience.
Picnic tables & public toilets are located next to the river beside the Barwon Hotel.
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Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.
