Beechworth – worth its weight in gold

By Darren Stones

In the foothills of the Victorian Alps, Beechworth is a sight to behold in autumn. With tree lined streets ablaze with colour and a lolly shop to satisfy the choosiest of sweet tooth’s, pack up the car and spend a few days exploring its history.

Loch Street, Beechworth

Beechworth was the town where Ned Kelly won a bare knuckled boxing match which lasted 20 rounds. Today, visitors can experience the one hour Ned Kelly Guided Walking tour that departs from the Beechworth Visitor Information Centre in Ford Street.

Ford Street, Beechworth

Fancy a pie or a coffee and cake? The Beechworth Bakery is a magnet for those with the munchies. The original single storey bakery was erected in 1857, and since then it’s been added to and undergone numerous renovations.

Beechworth Bakery, Beechworth

With fancy street lights and architecture of a bygone gold-mining era, Beechworth is a town that has retained its charm. The Post Office and former Bank of Victoria are two fine buildings which attract the eye at the intersection of Ford and Camp Streets.

Former State Bank of Victoria, Beechworth

Post Office, Beechworth

Intersection of Ford and Camp Streets, Beechworth

The historic and cultural precinct features buildings such as the Gold Warden’s Office and Bush Telegraph Station. Most buildings in the precinct are open for inspection. Check for opening hours.

Gold Warden's Office, Beechworth

A late afternoon stroll can be taken along the shore of Lake Sambell and a picnic area with gas BBQs is located by the lake in the Rotary Park.

Lake Sambell, Beechworth

Spring Creek and the Gorge Scenic Drive are a must. Within a short distance from the town centre, there are waterfalls and rugged granite outcrops.

Spring Creek, Beechworth

Beechworth images for sale here

Attractions:

Beechworth Visitor Information Centre
Town Hall
Ford Street Beechworth VIC
Phone: 03 5728 8065
http://www.beechworthonline.com.au/

Munchies:

Beechworth Bakery
27 Camp Street Beechworth VIC
Phone: 03 5728 1132
http://www.beechworthbakery.com.au/

The Beechworth Sweet Company
7 Camp Street Beechworth VIC
Phone: 03 5728 2060
http://www.beechworthsweetco.com.au/

Accommodation:

Beechworth Motor Inn
54 Sydney Road Beechworth VIC
Phone: 03 5728 1301
http://www.beechworthmotorinn.com.au/
Proprietors: Robert and Jenelle Ransom

Dining:

Tanswells Commercial Hotel – opened 1853
50 Ford Street Beechworth VIC
Phone: 03 5728 1480
www.beechworthonline.com.au/accom_result1/tanswells-commercial-hotel

Hibernian Hotel – established 1868
40 Camp Street Beechworth VIC
Phone: 03 5728 2028
http://www.hibernianhotel.com.au/