Built on the wealth of the 1850’s gold rush, the historic town of Kyneton offers visitors a charming getaway in the Victorian countryside.
Just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Kyneton is perfectly situated for a weekend away.
The region is known for its quality produce, primarily from wine makers and small food growers, and much of the harvest is featured on restaurant menus and in local food stores.
Brimming with boutique shopping and gourmet restaurants, it’s an indulgent destination to enjoy a break from the daily grind.
Things to do in Kyneton
Kyneton Museum
Kyneton Museum is a great place to start your visit and gain an understanding of the town’s history. The museum is housed in a beautiful, old bluestone bank building. The permanent collection features historical artefacts and visiting exhibitions are often connected to the town’s social and industrial past. The museum is open Friday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm.
Kyneton Museum: 67 Piper St, Kyneton.
Shopping on Piper St, Kyneton
Treat yourself to some retail therapy in historic Piper St. From clothing boutiques and makers collectives to second hand bookshops and produce stores, there’s something for all tastes. It’s easy to lose track of time as you explore the wide street and uncover unique gems.
Piper St shops: Piper St, Kyneton.
Kyneton Farmers’ Market
On the second Saturday of each month, from 8am to 1pm, Kyneton Farmers’ Market takes place. Set among the tall, shady trees of St Paul’s Park, stalls are laden with homegrown mushrooms, herbs, flowers, fruit, walnuts and honey. Local meats and baked goods are also available, and you can even sample a local wine or two. Grab your morning coffee as you wander through the market and stock up on produce for your pantry or picnic basket.
Kyneton Farmers’ Market: St Paul’s Park, Piper St, Kyneton.
Kyneton Botanic Gardens
Established in 1858, the Kyneton Botanic Gardens is a peaceful place to enjoy a picnic or a leisurely stroll. The expansive gardens are home to numerous historic trees, some of which are registered by the National Trust. There is an old gardener’s cottage that has been restored and a riverside walk along the Campaspe River.
Kyneton Botanic Gardens: Mollison St, Kyneton (next to the train station).
Places to eat in Kyneton
The Parkland
Situated on the side of St Paul’s Park, The Parkland is open nightly for dinner and lunch from Friday to Sunday. The spacious deck is perfect for afternoon drinks accompanied by the delicious range of tasting boards, while attentive service and a succinct menu make for a relaxed dining experience. Local wines feature heavily on the menu and are available by the glass or bottle. The menu has a Middle Eastern influence and ingredients are sourced locally. Reservations are recommended.
The Parkland: 37c Piper St, Kyneton.
Animus Distillery
At the bottom end of Piper St, this light-filled lounge bar is a great place to sample some of the boutique gins made on the premises. There are three ways to sample the gins: a guided tasting, a flight accompanied by a small tasting plate, or in a series of well-paired gin and tonics. There is also an extensive cocktail list in addition to a range of predominantly local beers and wines. Small snacks are available to accompany the range of drinks.
Animus Distillery: 1/89A Piper St, Kyneton.
Town Roaster
Town Roaster is the place to go for healthy food options. The menu is keto inspired, and the cabinet is full of treats that look dangerously decadent but are actually good for you. The kitchen is lectin free which means no sugar, hydrogenated oils, gluten or peanuts. The cafe is light and airy, with comfortable lounge chairs and cushioned banquettes along large windows.
The Town Roaster: 8 Market St, Kyneton.
Where to stay in Kyneton
Isabella at Kyneton is an award-winning bed and breakfast located within walking distance to the town’s attractions. The 1890’s cottage sleeps up to six people comfortably and is furnished with everything you need.
The breakfast provisions are plentiful and included in the price. The menu includes fresh, locally-baked bread, bacon and eggs, DIY pancakes, muesli, cereal, yoghurt and fruit. The kitchen is well equipped and includes a dishwasher, microwave and coffee plunger. There is even extra wine available for purchase if you run out.
Comprehensive visitor information is sent to you prior to your arrival, and an in-house iPad lists all the local restaurants so you can scour their menus before deciding where to go. It also has links to other local attractions. Free Wi-Fi is available.
Isabella at Kyneton: 10 Bowen St, Kyneton.
Getting to Kyneton
Kyneton is approximately 90km from Melbourne’s CBD and is an easy drive on the Calder Freeway.
If travelling from northern Victoria, head towards Bendigo and pick up the Calder Freeway heading south.
Kyneton is also accessible by V/Line train, approximately an hour’s journey from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station. There are multiple departures daily. Train services are also available from other regional train stations across the state. Conveniently, your train ticket is valid on the local bus that connects the station to the town centre, or you can opt for a 15-minute walk to the town centre.
