Werribee Park (Werribee South)

Werribee Park is an outstanding historic and cultural attraction offering an authentic insight into Australia 's richly diverse history. Located just 30 minutes from central Melbourne, the property features a superbly restored 1870s mansion, ten hectares of exquisite formal gardens, the internationally acclaimed Victoria State Rose Garden, contemporary sculpture walk, tranquil riverine, original farmyard and specialised tours.

Things to See and Do

The Mansion

Rediscover a bygone era with a journey through a beautifully restored 1870s Italianate-style mansion. Listen to the chatter of the Chirnside family with an intriguing audio tour individually themed to each room. Enter the separate laundry and visit May, an enthusiastic laundry maid with a tragic story to tell.

Seminary Years Exhibition

Explore an exhibition within the mansion dedicated to the seminary years of Werribee Park. The exhibition encompasses an impressive collection of photographs and information that documents the use and expansion of the property during the Catholic Church's 50-year residency. A typical day in the life of the student priests is highlighted, complete with a replica of their sparse rooms in Josephs Wing (now converted into the deluxe accommodation of Sofitel Mansion & Spa).

Tower Tour

Enjoy a personalised tour of the mansion tower with an informative guide. Hear further details about Werribee Park and the surrounding district with a spectacular view.

Formal Gardens

Escape the hustle and bustle within ten hectares of exquisite formal gardens featuring a colourful parterre display, ornamental lake and grotto, expansive lawns, heritage-listed trees and historical glasshouses. Pack a picnic and wile away the afternoon with family and friends.

Sculpture Walk

Journey into the world of contemporary sculpture with a stroll through this extraordinary outdoor sculpture exhibition. Featuring an interesting collection of works by Australia's leading sculptors, the walk meanders through a unique selection of natural landscape and encompasses various sections of the property.

Riverine

Absorb the soothing surrounds of Werribee River in the stunning riverine. Take a few moments to appreciate a mix of treasures within; ranging from ancient to contemporary, natural to man-made.

Farm

Contemplate life from the worker's perspective in the original farmyard. Rustic bluestone outbuildings, once abuzz with workers and activity, provide a stark contrast to the elaborate craftsmanship of the mansion.

Audio Tour

Delve further into the history and stories of Werribee Park with an engaging audio tour. Hire an audio wand and listen to an interesting series of conversations and information in a range of areas, including the mansion, formal gardens, sculpture walk and farm.

Victoria State Rose Garden

Delight in the irresistible colour and fragrance of over 5,000 roses displayed to perfection within four uniquely shaped designs. The feature display is set in the shape of a Tudor Rose containing thousands of modern roses. Two themed displays complete the rose design; a Federation Leaf dedicated to Australian roses and the David Austin Bud showcasing roses of 46 cultivars. The Rose Garden is separated from the mansion's formal gardens by a Heritage Border featuring unusual and historic roses from around the world. In bloom from October to May, the roses are at their most magnificent from November to April.

The Helen Lempriere National Sculpture Award

As Australia's richest annual prize for sculptors in Australia, the annual Helen Lempriere National Sculpture Award fosters and promotes contemporary Australian sculpture. Throughout Autumn every year, sculptures of the selected finalists are exhibited throughout the formal gardens of Werribee Park, forming a spectacular setting to appreciate the wide variety of work

Essence Theatre Productions

Essence Theatre Productions is an independent theatre company specialising in bringing Australia's unique historical stories to life through live performance. A team of actors perform each weekend at Werribee Park Mansion and farm in a promenade theatre style play, bringing the squatting Chirnside history to life.

These plays involve professional actors in character who take an audience through either the magnificent Werribee Park Mansion ('What Was that?') or the old farm buildings at Werribee Park ('Down to Earth'). The plays combine history, comedy and scary elements and the story unfolds as they move to different locations.

Facilities

Audio visual displays
Self-guided touring leaflets
Cafe & Giftshop
Picnic tables & chairs throughout formal gardens
BBQs and shelter alongside Victoria State Rose Garden
Car & coach parking
Walking paths
Viewing Platform
Access and facilites for disabled visitors

Access for Dogs:

To maintain Werribee Park to its optimum please leave pets at home.

How to Get There

Werribee Park is located just 30 minutes drive from Melbourne , via the Princes Highway on route to Geelong.

Opening Hours:

Opening Hours

Cost:

Admission to Mansion
Entry to Werribee Park Gardens and Victoria State Rose Garden is free

Review:

Werribee Park has a nice range of free activities for the family and it is not even necessary to pay for a visit inside the mansion in order to have a nice day here. The outdoor sculpture walk is extensive and fun and the old farm has interesting historical elements. There are toilets and a water tap in the farm area.

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