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Located on the banks of the Barwon River, Winchelsea is a rural town steeped in history and surrounded by the fertile farmland of Victoria’s Western District.
Fishing is popular in this section of the Barwon River with brown trout, redfin and eels commonly caught nearby. There are also lakes and reservoirs close by that are popular with anglers.
Winchelsea’s historic origins are clearly visible in town, with some grand buildings including the National Trust property Barwon Park, which was built in 1871.
Step back in time and indulge in the charming history of a tranquil country town. Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, Winchelsea is a picturesque gateway to the Otway Hinterlands and Western District. Located on the banks of the Barwon River, Winchelsea is steeped in history and surrounded by fertile farmland and historic buildings. Be whisked away to days of old by the town’s fresh natural environment and elegant country lifestyle.
Winchelsea offers romance, charisma and an immersion into the tranquil, gentle beauty of the countryside. Indulge yourself with a range of intriguing historic attractions and activities, delicious cafes, traditional pubs and charming antique and gift shops.
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.
Winchelsea offers a range of delicious and delectable eateries as it embraces a rapidly expanding café culture.
Discover whose coffee is lauded by commuters as the best in the Western District.
The fertile fields surrounding Winchelsea produce boutique food and wines, with opportunities to sample and even pick your own. Take a drive through the countryside to explore these local delights.
Near the hotel is a 3 span bluestone arch bridge (1867) over the Barwon River which is considered one of the most impressive stone structures in Victoria.
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.
Don’t forget your camera! Spending an hour 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.
Looking for a bite to eat? With a selection of great cafes (Try Cafe La Hoot, Sweet Thyme, The Winchelsea Tea Rooms or Run Rabbit Run), two hotels serving local fare or for a quick bite there’s take-away food and a delightful bakery.
The Otway Harvest Trail is a celebration of the seasons that bestow their rich bounty on a luscious part of Victoria.
Offering farm gate produce, award-winning wineries, delicious food, hand crafted beer, beautiful accommodation and artisan products.
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.
A unique collection of antique and collectables retailers adds to Winchelsea’s old-world charm.
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 Winchelsea (next to community house)
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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.
