13 Reasons to Take a Little Detour to Werribee & Surrounds This Summer
Werribee is a hidden gem that offers much more than meets the eye, with its mix of family-friendly attractions, peaceful nature, and unexpected culinary delights—just waiting to be explored.
Looking for a day trip from Melbourne this summer that blends excitement, culture, and natural beauty? Werribee & Surrounds presents the perfect escape, offering a harmonious fusion of wildlife, history, gastronomic delights, and scenic landscapes – all just a leisurely 30-minute drive from the city.
Whether you’re an animal enthusiast, a lover of fine dining, or simply in need of a peaceful retreat, this charming area promises to captivate your senses.
From heart-pounding rhino encounters to the refined elegance of heritage high teas, here are thirteen compelling reasons to veer off the beaten path and discover the treasures that await in Werribee.
Be Wowwed by the Majestic Horses at the National Clydesdale and Heavy Horse Festival
If you’ve ever been curious about heavy horses, the National Clydesdale and Heavy Horse Festival is a must-see. Held annually at the National Equestrian Centre in Werribee, this event is one of Australia's largest displays of these impressive horses. Watch them in action, meet the gentle giants, and take part in the trade village filled with delicious food stalls. It's a day of fun for all ages!
Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th January, 2025
Book tickets here
National Equestrian Centre, K Road, Werribee South
Join in the Fun at the Tarneit Kite Festival
Celebrate the beauty of the skies at the Wyndham City’s free Tarneit Kite Festival. Watch a colourful display of kites soaring overhead, or grab your own and join in the fun. With live entertainment, kite-making, and food trucks, it’s an afternoon of free-spirited fun for the whole family.
Sunday 19th January, 4pm to 8pm
Free event (no bookings required)
Goddard St Reserve, Tarneit
Meet the Rhinos at Werribee Open Range Zoo
Get up close to the zoo’s iconic rhinos with a behind-the-scenes ‘Raising Rhinos Experience’. Learn about the zoo’s rhino conservation efforts, hear heartwarming stories of baby rhino Jabulani meeting his family for the first time, and experience the thrill of being on the savannah with these magnificent creatures.
1.10pm every Monday, Tuesday, Saturday, Sunday
Werribee Open Range Zoo, K Road, Werribee
Indulge in a Heritage High Tea Experience at The Refectory
For a truly elegant experience, indulge in a Heritage High Tea at Werribee Mansion’s The Refectory. Set in the beautifully restored mansion, the high tea includes a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and exquisite cakes, all paired with a glass of sparkling wine. Afterward, enjoy a guided tour of the mansion’s stunning gardens.
Wednesday to Sunday, 11.30am and 1.30pm sessions
Book here
$85 per person (includes high tea, sparkling wine, and garden tour)
Werribee Mansion, Gate 2 K Road, Werribee South
Get Back to Nature at Werribee Gorge
For a dash of rugged elegance, venture to Werribee Gorge – nature's raw beauty, just a stone’s throw from the bustle of the city. This majestic gorge carves through the land with dramatic cliffs and winding rivers, offering a breathtaking canvas for explorers.
The Werribee Gorge Circuit winds through rugged terrain, where the air feels fresher and the wild is just a heartbeat away. Whether you’re scaling rocky outcrops or simply soaking in the panoramic views, this untamed paradise offers a quiet luxury that makes for an unforgettable day out.
204 Myers Road, Pentland Hills
Catch an A-League Match at Ironbark Fields
For sports enthusiasts, Werribee offers an exciting family-friendly atmosphere at Ironbark Fields. Cheer on Western United FC at one of their A-League matches and enjoy pre-match entertainment, food trucks, and interactive fun for the kids. It's an exciting way to spend the day with loved ones while supporting local sports.
January and February
Ironbark Fields, Tarneit
Cool Off at Werribee South Foreshore
Take a relaxing dip at one of Melbourne's best-kept secrets, Werribee South Foreshore. Enjoy the calm waters, two playgrounds, coastal walking tracks, and even a boat ramp. It’s the perfect place to unwind, enjoy a day by the sea, or try your hand at fishing.
Werribee South Beach is patrolled by Life Saving Victoria until 26th January, 2025
Werribee South Foreshore, Beach Road, Werribee South
Make a Splash at Waterparks and Pools
Stay cool at one of Werribee’s exciting waterparks and pools. The Riverwalk Village Water Playground features fountains, water tunnels, and sprays for the kids, while the Werribee Outdoor Pool offers a 50m lap pool and family-friendly bubble areas. For indoor fun, head to AquaPulse in Hoppers Crossing for slides and leisure pools.
The Riverwalk Village Water Playground, Newmarket Road, Werribee
Werribee Outdoor Pool, Chirnside Park, 220 Watton Street, Werribee
AquaPulse, 80-82 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing
Plan a Picnic at Werribee Park’s Victoria State Rose Garden
Take a stroll through the spectacular Victoria State Rose Garden at Werribee Park, home to over 5,000 roses. It's the perfect spot for a summer picnic, with expansive lawns and beautiful views. Explore the surrounding Werribee Park & Mansion, which adds a touch of history and charm to your day.
Free for gardens; small fee for Werribee Mansion
Werribee Park & Mansion, K Road, Werribee South
Get Your Friends Together for Bottomless Brunch
Gather your crew for a relaxing afternoon of bottomless brunches. From The Social Sutra’s cocktails and brunch to Corked Wine Bar’s endless wine sessions, there’s something for everyone.
If you're near Werribee South, enjoy the new Taittinger Long Brunch at Lancemore Mansion Hotel with free-flowing Champagne and a delectable two-course menu.
The Social Sutra, 1/169 Watton Street, Werribee
Corked Wine Bar, 116 Watton Street, Werribee
Lancemore Mansion Hotel, Escarpment Road, Werribee
Enjoy Some Outdoor Dining
Savour delicious food in the great outdoors at Werribee’s charming eateries. After craft beer and pub fare? Seek out The Bridge Hotel. Feeling a picnic of sandwiches by the water? Head to Tucker's. Aiming to take it up a notch? Make a beeline for the Mediterranean delicacies at Shadowfax Winery. Whatever you decide, you'll be spoilt for choice.
For a more scenic dining experience, enjoy a picnic hamper from The Refectory Parlour within the lush gardens of Werribee Park & Mansion.
The Bridge Hotel, 197 Watton Street, Werribee
Tuckers Sandwiches, 92 Watton Street, Werribee
Shadowfax Winery, K Road, Werribee South
Enjoy Mini Golf with Bayside Views
For a bit of friendly competition, head to Elements Coastal Activity Park and tee off while enjoying spectacular views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne skyline. Afterward, relax at 3030 Waterfront with a sustainable menu and breathtaking waterside views.
Elements Coastal Activity Park open daily from 7:30am to 3pm
Wyndham Harbour, 50 Quay Boulevard, Werribee South
Turn Your Day Trip Into a Mini Getaway
Why not extend your visit with an overnight stay? Werribee offers a range of accommodation options, from the luxurious Lancemore Mansion Hotel to family-friendly stays at the Holiday Inn Werribee.
Alternatively, experience the Slumber Safari at Werribee Open Range Zoo or enjoy the comfort of self-catered apartments at Quest Werribee or Quest Sanctuary Lakes.
Werribee and surrounds is the perfect destination for a memorable summer day trip or weekend getaway from Melbourne. With its mix of wildlife, history, outdoor adventures, and vibrant food scene, there’s no shortage of things to do. Pack your bags (or picnic basket!) and get ready to experience a different side of Melbourne’s western suburbs this summer. For more warm weather inspiration, check out our guide to these family-friendly pubs and favourite bayside dining options.
