Beechworth

Quick facts

Population approximately 3,200
267 kilometres north-east of Melbourne
One of Victoria's best preserved gold rush towns
Courthouse where Ned Kelly stood trial
Close to the Rutherglen, Milawa and Beechworth wine regions.

Beechworth is one of Victoria's best-preserved gold rush towns. Four million ounces of gold were officially mined in 1852, when thousands of hopefuls rushed to the gold fields in search of their fortunes. The prosperity generated by Beechworth gold has left an admirable legacy for today's visitors.

With over 30 buildings listed by the National Trust, Beechworth has a remarkable architectural heritage, from imposing hotels, churches and government offices to miners’ cottages and the gaol where bushranger Ned Kelly was imprisoned. Take the time to explore the nineteenth century streetscapes, stopping to discover the many fine antique stores, cafes and restaurants, craft shops and tea rooms.

Activities and attractions

Take a walking tour of the Beechworth Historic and Cultural Precinct and the buildings of historical significance in central Beechworth, many of which are made of local honey granite. Free brochures are available from the Visitor Information Centre.
Walk through the historic courthouse at Beechworth, where Ned Kelly stood trial in 1880 after the siege at Glenrowan
Visit Burke Museum to learn about local aboriginal heritage, gold fever and the history of the town and region, and see Ned Kelly's death mask. The museum is named after Robert O'Hara Burke – the Beechworth police superintendent who became the famous (and ill-fated) explorer
Visit the local cemetery, a large section of which is dedicated to the graves of approximately 2,000 Chinese who came in search of gold, and see the twin ceremonial Chinese burning towers built in 1883
Browse the many antique and craft shops, some of which are housed in historic gold rush buildings
Enjoy a meat pie, lamington or pastry at the famous Beechworth Bakery
Visit cellar doors to sample local wine, and taste the fare of gourmet local producers
Visit the nearby towns of Yackandandah and Chiltern, which have changed little since the nineteenth century and have been the setting for a number of Australian period films
Cycle the scenic Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail, a sealed bitumen trail following the historic railway lines linking Wangaratta, Beechworth and Bright.

Events

Chinese Lantern Festival – February
Beechworth Classic Motorcycle, Lawn Mower & Rotary Hoe Show – February
Golden Horseshoes Festival – Easter
Drive Back in Time – May
Beechworth Harvest Celebration – May
Timber Heritage Festival – May
Ned Kelly Weekend – August
Beechworth Celtic Festival – November

How to get there
Beechworth is 267 kilometres or approximately 3 hours from Melbourne via the Hume Freeway, Great Alpine Road and Wangaratta-Beechworth Road.

Vline trains run from Melbourne to Wangaratta. From there connect with the bus service to Beechworth. Contact Vline 136 196 for the latest timetable.

Wangaratta Coach Lines runs a regular service between Albury, Beechworth and Yackandandah during school periods. Ph 03 5722 1843

Further Links