Buninyong Historic Walk
Once more prosperous than Ballarat, the township of Buninyong, located 13km south of the city, is now a crossroads of historic buildings, cosy cafes and beautiful botanic gardens. It may be a small town, but there's a wide choice of cafes, shops and galleries, plus plenty of places to explore on foot.
Considered the first inland town in Victoria, Buninyong's interesting name comes from an Aboriginal word 'Buninyouang', which means 'man lying on his back with his knees raised', and refers to the shape of nearby Mount Buninyong.
The 3.5km Historic Buninyong Walk is a rewarding way to stretch your legs and get a grasp on local history. Most buildings along the route are highly preserved displays of Buninyong's proud but short-lived gold prosperity; like the mock masonry and timber facade of the Mechanics Institute (1861) - imported from England at great expense.
While most of Buninyong's historic buildings are now privately owned, many are open for business in various guises. Highlights of the walk include the Crown Hotel, built in 1885 and holder of the first hotel license for an inland hotel, and Buninyong Botanic Gardens, one of the oldest in Victoria.
Start at the Crown Hotel, 508 Warrenheip Street, Buninyong.
Map of Buninyong Historic Walk Route
1 Crown Hotel
2 De Soza Park
3 Mechanic's Hall
4 Whykes Grocers
5 Corner Shop
6 Glencairn
7 Clifton Villa
8 Hiscock's House
9 Post Office
10 405 Learmonth St
11 Dr Longden's House
12 RSL Memorial Park
13 Masonic Lodge
14 Netherby
15 HolyTrinity Anglican Church
16 Camelia Cottage
17 Police Station
18 Presbyterian Church
19 Presbyterian Manse
20 Buninyong Botanic Gardens
21 Sandstone Building
22 Buninyong Brewery
23 The Gong
24 Golden Nugget Hotel
25 Civic Centre
26 Whykes Butchers
27 Eames Store
28 National Park
29 General Store
30 Eagle Hotel
Location
508 Warrenheip Street, Buninyong 3357 Map
