Before the train arrived in 1862, it took would-be gold miners a week to walk from Melbourne to Castlemaine. Luckily, it is now a comfortable 90-minute V/Line trip from Southern Cross Station to arrive at the regional city, known for its artistic community and gold rush heritage.
The train will deposit you at the same station used by the Victorian Goldfield Railways. The volunteer-run train service operates an original steam train service between Castlemaine and neighbouring town of Maldon.
Victorian Goldfield Railways
Take a trip back in time in a carriage that dates back to the 1800s, pulled by a historic steam engine. VicRail closed the branch line from Castlemaine to Maldon in 1976 due to falling patronage and bushfire damage, but history and rail enthusiasts banded together to gradually restore it. The line was officially reopened in 2005, and now carries about 25,000 passengers a year.
It’s a rattling, hour-long journey through bushland to reach the well-preserved town of Maldon in time for lunch. The historic train runs twice a week with additional special services held regularly, including trips featuring beer tastings or a screening of Murder on the Orient Express.
Adult one-way tickets from $37
Regular service Wednesday and Sunday, departing Castlemaine at 11.30am
Check for additional/special services.
Visit the Victorian Goldfield railways
Maldon
Maldon is the end of the line for the Victorian Goldfields Railway, which will deposit you at its charming station, only a 10-minute walk into the town proper. You won’t be able to miss the evidence of Maldon’s goldmining past, including the imposing Beehive Mine Chimney, which stands at 30 metres tall and belonged to one of Victoria’s largest gold producers.
Maldon’s streetscape has been well preserved with its picturesque main street lined with intact historic buildings, including the old fashioned lolly shop. With lots of cafes, you’ll be spoilt for choice for lunch before your return trip to Castlemaine.
Castlemaine Botanical Gardens
It’s an easy and picturesque 20-minute walk from Castlemaine Train Station to the ornate metal gates of the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens. Established in 1860, the gardens were originally designed by Baron von Mueller, who was the first director of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.
Take a walk around the scenic Lake Joanna and check out the impressive collections of native and exotic plants, some of which are included on the National Trust’s list of significant trees.
Open daily
Visit the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens
The Mill Castlemaine
Directly opposite the botanical gardens is the site of the former Castlemaine Woollen Mill, which first opened in 1875. Retaining much of the history and architecture of the old mill, the site has been reimagined as a vibrant hub with distinct precincts for small businesses producing food, wine and chocolates; crafts people with specialities including furniture and perfumery; and, a vintage bazaar – where you’ll find a range of quirky second-hand and hand-made goods.
The Food Hall is a great spot for a freshly roasted coffee, or you can make the 20-minute walk into town to grab a drink at the Theatre Royal.
The Vintage Bazaar is open daily from 10am – 5pm
Other businesses opening hours vary
Theatre Royal
The Theatre Royal was opened in 1854 to entertain thousands of diggers who had flocked to Central Victoria to make their fortune. ‘Talkies’ and live music may have replaced the original silent films but the heritage-listed building has maintained its charm. Grab some popcorn and a choc top and head inside to watch a movie or just enjoy a drink at the bar before heading back to the V/Line for the trip home.
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 4pm.
Reviewed 08 July 2024