Castlemaine Botanical Gardens
Wander through this 19th Century garden and discover the many original features including the carriage drive, elm and oak avenues, Lake Joanna, and the formal garden beds that contrast with lush open lawns.
The gardens have undergone a multi-million dollar refurbishment, including improvements to the garden's lake, amenities, parking and installation of a new playground and picnic facilities.
History - In 1860, 25 hectares of heavily-worked diggings alongside Barkers Creek were set aside for botanic gardens. In 1866 the council appointed Philip Doran as the first curator, a role he fulfilled until his death in 1913 at the age of 83. The gardens essentially retain his original design and major plantings.
Trees - The gardens are home to an impressive collection of native and exotic trees, some of which are registered with the National Trust. They include a huge English Oak which was planted by the Duke of Edinburgh in 1867.
Review:
The Gardens have a lovely playground in the north east corner, a lake with water birds, plenty of interesting trees, flower beds, bird bath, fountain, sundial and historic buildings.
There are shaded and unshaded seats and tables throughout the gardens and water taps and toilets at both ends.
Buildings in the gardens include a reconstruction of the original Summerhouse built on the site in 1872 and the former Tea Rooms which is available to the public for community and family events and is home to the Castlemaine Highland Pipe Band.
A gravel path runs along one side of the gardens and Barkers Creek runs along the west side. The centrepiece is Lake Joanna which was dug out by teams of prisoners from the Castlemaine Gaol in the late 1870s. Unfortunately the lake is not suitable for swimming.
It is possible to take a 10 minute walk from the south end of the gardens to the Castlemaine Railway Station or a slightly longer 15 minute walk to the old Gaol. Follow the signage bollards along Gingell Street.
Photos:
Location
Cnr Froomes Rd and Downes Rd, Castlemaine 3450 Map
Web Links
→ Castlemaine Botanical Gardens Walk (Walking Maps)
