Gordon

Touring Top Spot

Quiet country, picturesque village and historic charm.  All descriptions of what you’ll experience on a day trip to Gordon. But that’s not all. 

In addition to its unique original feel, Gordon has a number of slightly quirky attractions. Top of the list is Wild Trout Down Under and Gordon Hat Shoppe.  Located in the beautifully restored old colonial Anglican Church, the Hat Shoppe offers a gallery specializing in Harris Tweed patchwork headwear of all shapes and sizes.  Those wanting to stay and soak up the atmosphere will enjoy unique Scottish and Irish inspired accommodation and warm welcoming hospitality.  

A must see venue is the Billy Boils Café. Inspired by Australian writer Henry Lawson, the café has been designed to reflect our colonial history and includes a café, bookshop, antiques and an outdoor area fit for poetry recitals and good old-fashioned get-togethers. 

The Café also offers visitors a ‘musical’ flavour and features a program of talented community-roots musicians. Enjoy fine food, a spot of tea or coffee and have a great toe-tapping time. 

For lovers of arts, antiques and collectables there’s The Shambles, a shopper’s delight with plenty of treasures to keep you entertained and coming back for more. There are also a number of art and craft shops and galleries, such as the Gordon Edgerton Gallery, that provide plenty of quality work to peruse.

There’s also a great country pub, picturesque parks, and ample opportunities to stop and soak up the atmosphere. From Gordon it’s only a short drive to Yuulong Lavender Estate which is worthy of a day trip in it’s own right - lavender fields, retail nursery, tea rooms and comprehensive range of quality lavender skin care products.  

Gordon is a short detour from the Western Highway and is only 20 minutes from Ballarat and 30 minutes from Daylesford. Take the time to tour this delightful country village – it might be just the tree change location you’re looking for.

Who to meet

Have a chat with Bob Petch. Decked out in tartan, tweed hat and with a waist long Santa like beard, Bob is a flamboyant and unmistakeable local identity. Bob and his wife Sheena are owner operators of The Shambles and The Gordon Hat Shoppe. Learn about the tartan, how the hats are made and enjoy his knowledge of all things Scottish – including where to catch a trout!