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Explore & Experience the Best Things to Do in Castlemaine
Make the most of a weekend away with the best things to do in Castlemaine, where this lush country town provides comfort and community.
Just an hour and a half from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne, central Victoria’s Castlemaine’s sleepy lifestyle is anything but dull, with a myriad of indoor and outdoor activities lending itself perfectly to year-round weekend getaways.
With a lively arts precinct, dreamy botanical gardens, thrift stores and quality bars and eateries, this cultural hub in regional Victoria is just begging to be explored.
A stone’s throw away from misty Mt Franklin and Daylesford, Castlemaine remains one of Victoria’s best-kept secrets within two hours of the city, so to make the most of your time, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Castlemaine.
Best Things to Do in Castlemaine: Cafes
Johnny Baker
Milkshakes, fresh banana bread, cinnamon scrolls, croissants and Italian cakes are the order of the day at Johnny Baker, a one-stop shop for baked goods and quality coffee in Castlemaine.
With an Uptown and Downtown location, it’s never been easier to get your morning cuppa Joe, paired best with a sweet treat. It’s not all sweets though – the Uptown location has lunch sorted with everyone’s favourite regional cuisine – savoury meat pies, quiche and sausage rolls.
359 Baker Street & 46 Forest Street, Castlemaine
Run, Rabbit, Run
The cosiest and quirkiest cafe in town, Run, Rabbit, Run is an easy choice for a scrumptious breakfast. Fuel your day of exploring with brunch classics like corn fritters, egg and bacon brekkie burgers, croissants and milkshakes, and order a barista-made coffee to go.
Upstairs, discover a haven of vintage gowns and browse the eclectic mix of trinkets and goodies to purchase – an excellent spot for a bite to eat and some gift shopping for a friend… or yourself.
24 Hargraves Street, Castlemaine
Origini
For a hearty plate of authentic, regional Italian cuisine, make a booking at Origini. The tiny restaurant is passionate about serving Northern Italian along with friendly smiles, a welcoming atmosphere and good times.
Nabbing a table inside is no easy feat during winter, but come summertime, the charming courtyard out the back is the place to be. Transporting you to an Italian trattoria, indulge in tasting platters with quality meat and cheese, fresh pasta, Italian flatbread and bruschetta.
213 Barker Street, Castlemaine
Lazy Bones Cafe
In a small town proud of its history and tradition, it’s tricky being the new kids on the block, but Lazy Bones Cafe is quickly gaining the trust of the Castlemaine locals thanks to its fresh offering and friendly, easygoing service.
The modern space still has the homey vibe this town is known for, but the dishes breathe new life into the cafe scene, with the likes of chilli scramble with goat’s cheese, egg and mortadella sandos and potato gnocchi with pangrattato and green peas. For an afternoon treat, a coffee and a freshly baked muffin from the cabinet make the perfect pair.
31 Templeton Street, Castlemaine
Best Things to Do in Castlemaine: Restaurants
Gornelly’s
Gornelly’s feels like a well-kept secret whispered between friends. Opened by Astrid Connelly and David Gorniak, this all-day cafe and wine bar exudes the effortless charm of a European neighbourhood haunt—where morning espressos flow into afternoon aperitivos and candlelit evenings. With checkerboard floors and a warmly buzzing atmosphere, it invites you to slide onto the bar, chat with staff, or strike up a conversation with whoever’s next to you. By day, expect filled focaccia, coffee, and house-made cake. Come evening, the menu turns to small plates—think terrine, fluffy focaccia, seasonal vegetables given the correct treatment, and affogato with house-made ice cream. Just add wine.
196 Barker Street, Castlemaine
Lola Pizza Bar & Bottleshop
Lola’s Pizza Bar & Bottleshop is where wood-fired pizza, sharp cocktails, and good times collide inside Castlemaine’s storied Theatre Royal. It’s got that effortlessly cool, slightly chaotic energy in spades—the kind of place where a quick bite turns into a long night. Pies emerge blistered and bubbling, negronis are poured with a knowing hand, and the bottle shop tempts you to take the party home. Stay for the music, the banter, and just one more drink.
30 Hargraves Street, Castlemaine
Bar Midland
Bar Midland is the quintessential regional restaurant, championing Victoria’s finest produce with unwavering dedication. Nothing makes it onto the menu unless it’s grown or produced within the state. A true love letter to local farmers, foragers, and regenerative growers, they embrace everything from edible weeds to wild game.
Secure a seat in their intimate 17-seat dining room and savour a menu that celebrates the farmed, foraged, fresh, and fermented—perfectly paired with phenomenal wines.
Shop 1 / 2 Templeton Street, Castlemaine
Wild
Cleverly converting an old fire station into one of the best restaurants in town, Wild serves delicious meals, great wine and cold beers in a casual setting. Focusing on fresh produce and good times, Wild is a popular spot for a quick drink or a longer meal with family and friends.
The menu is everything we love about modern Australian dining, utilising the best meat and vegetables available for quality and freshness. Start with marinated olives and baked Jerusalem artichokes before digging into roasted chicken with grilled vegetables or pork belly with cabbage. Save room for dessert – the warm chocolate chip cookie is to-die-for!
26A Templeton Street, Castlemaine
Love Shack Brewing
If you’re drawn to Art Deco interiors, old-school country hospitality, and top-notch beer and pub fare, then Love Shack Brewing is calling your name. From the moment its funky, retro exterior catches your eye, you know you’re in for something special—and it only gets better inside.
The food menu takes classic bistro fare up a notch, with standouts like crispy popcorn chicken, broccolini with toasted almonds, and a stellar eggplant parmigiana. Pair it with your drink of choice—beer, wine, spirits, or cocktails—and settle in for a good time.
26 Hargraves Street, Castlemaine
SuperHero Banh Mi
Whether you’re passing through on a road trip and need a quick bite, or are staying for the weekend and craving some Vietnamese goodness, the banh mi rolls and bao buns at SuperHero Banh Mi are legendary. Appropriately named, these beauties will assist with hangovers and hungry stomachs, and the generous bun salads offer a refreshing option. Using family recipes and ingredients from the garden, this is as fresh as it gets!
Sitchu Tip: Keep an eye out for their freshly baked cookies and cakes—they’re seriously delicious.
Enter at Forrest Street, 12 Hargraves Street, Castlemaine
Best Things to Do in Castlemaine: Explore
Find Local Treasures and Flavours at The Mill Castlemaine
A treasure trove for collectors and food lovers alike, The Mill Castlemaine is steeped in history, dating back to 1875. Today, it’s a thriving hub where creativity and craftsmanship collide—home to vintage markets, artisan makers, and small-batch beer, wine, and coffee producers. Think of it as a wonderland where the thrill of discovery never ends.
At its heart, The Castlemaine Vintage Bazaar is a thrifter’s paradise. Spanning 1,800sqm, it’s a labyrinth of nostalgia, brimming with everything from quirky knick-knacks to exquisite Art Deco furniture.
When it’s time to refuel, Boomtown Wine, Ice Cream Republic, and Sprout Bakery are ready to satisfy cravings with local flavours as rich as the history that surrounds you.
9 Walker Street, Castlemaine
Meander around Castlemaine Botanic Gardens
Expect to find the Castlemaine Botanic Gardens abuzz on a sunny day. These beautiful gardens provide an oasis for visitors and locals, with native flowers, tea rooms, a gorgeous ornamental lake in Lake Joanna, walking paths and expansive lawns.
The park hums with life—families gathering around sizzling BBQs, children laughing on the playground, and the scent of fresh grass in the air. Well-kept facilities invite you to linger, whether for a sun-drenched afternoon or a quiet morning stroll through its serene embrace. For the perfect picnic, grab a banh mi from Super Hero Banh Mi, let the flavours transport you, and lose yourself in the simple magic of a day well spent.
Corner or Parker Street and Downes Road, Castlemaine
Shop for Vintage Treasures in Local Stores
Immerse Yourself in Local Culture at Theatre Royal
Live music may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Castlemaine, but the historic Theatre Royal provides a monthly program of local music acts and fantastic films.
More than a spot to be entertained by music and movies, Bistro Lola serves beer, wine, cocktails and pizza from the theatre, and believe us when we say this is some of the best pizza you will find in the region – the dough is hand-stretched and fermented for 48 hours, after all. For something sweet, classic choc tops always hit the spot!
30 Hargraves Street, Castlemaine
Explore the Gold Rush Era
If you consider yourself a history buff, you will love a ride on the Victorian Goldfields Railway when you visit Castlemaine! Hop aboard the old-fashioned steam train and enjoy the journey from Castlemaine to Maldon as you travel through central Victorian Goldfields.
For a closer look at the historical sites, visit the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park, which at one point was the richest goldfield in the world. Explore historic homes, enjoy bushwalking and wildflowers, try historic gold digging techniques and learn about Victoria’s Gold Rush in guided tours.
Visit the Castlemaine Art Museum
Founded in 1913, Castlemaine Art Museum (CAM) proudly displays a curation of exhibitions demonstrating past and present art and history in the region. This inclusive gallery celebrates First Nations voices, Australian artwork and community connections in its dynamic space.
A permanent collection of over 2000 artworks and 4000 artefacts and a stellar rotation of temporary exhibitions make CAM one of regional Victoria’s most important museums. Historical significance and an art gallery rolled into one, set aside an afternoon to step back in time.
14 Lyttleton Street, Castlemaine
Best Things to Do in Castlemaine: Stay
Temperance House
Temperance House is a portal to Castlemaine’s past and present. This 1855 heritage hotel has been reborn as a boutique guesthouse, where six thoughtfully designed suites balance old-world charm with modern comfort. But the real magic happens in the dining room. Food pop-ups bring the space to life, from Ratbag’s playful plates to Voor Ouker’s nostalgic Indonesian-Dutch fare. History lingers in the walls, but the flavours are always fresh.
68 Mostyn Street, Castlemaine
Be&Be
There’s nothing like curling up with a glass of red in a cosy abode after a day in Castlemaine, and Be&Be provides nothing but comfort in their two standalone studios overlooking the town.
Studio One is a thoughtfully renovated 1970s home filled with character across two storeys, while the newer Studio Two is a space that’s all bespoke timber furniture, endless natural light and stunning views. Each has everything you need to feel right at home.
And we didn’t mention the best part – Be&Be is pet-friendly, so your furry friend can enjoy the good life, too!
Book your stay with Be&Be
Book your stay with Booking.com
Clevedon Cottage
Found in the enchanting grounds of Historic Clevedon Manor, Clevedon Cottage is a charming retreat brimming with romance and old-world elegance. Overlooking the manor’s lush gardens, this idyllic escape is perfect for couples seeking tranquility or a base for adventure. Just minutes from town and the train station, it’s a short stroll to the stunning Botanic Gardens, The Mill complex, Tap Room, and Des Kaffehaus. A storybook setting for a magical getaway to Castlemaine.
Pemberley Cottage
Encased in the serene countryside of neighbouring Malmsbury, Pemberley Cottage is a romantic boutique escape on a third-generation grazing property. Overlooking the shimmering Malmsbury Reservoir, iconic bluestone viaduct, and Mount Macedon, this self-contained haven invites you to unwind in breathtaking beauty. Relax on the spacious deck, toast marshmallows by the fire pit, and lose yourself in endless starry skies. A tranquil retreat, yet close to Kyneton and Daylesford, it’s the perfect setting for romance and relaxation.
Malmsbury, Victoria
If our guide to the best things to do in Castlemaine has you dreaming of a country escape, you’ll love our picks of the best farm stays and most romantic getaways in Victoria!
Our Sitchu editors work hard to deliver you the best products, events and venues that we hope you will love, each one is selected independently. Sitchu may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.
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