Excursion High tea & victoria heritage tour at Geelong

Heritage roses, a Renaissance Revival mansion, and the fascinating story of an Australian pastoral empire – all set the stage for an elegant High Tea afternoon at Werribee Park Mansion. Built in 1877 for the Chirnside family, who migrated from Scotland and amassed a fortune in the wool trade in the Western District of Victoria, this ornate 60-room basalt and sandstone showplace is the essence of 19th-century architectural grandeur.

Arriving after a scenic 60-minute coach drive from the pier, your initial hour at Werribee is for freeform exploring of the estate’s beautiful park grounds. A Heritage border of rare and historic roses from around the world divides the house’s manicured formal gardens and ancestral orchards from the must-see Victoria State Rose Garden, where some 5,000 rose plants bloom in a kaleidoscopic riot of color during peak months.

Your next two hours are for indulging in a sensory treat of an entirely different sort – the unbridled elegance of The Heritage High Tea Experience at The Refectory Parlor within the Werribee Mansion. Set out amidst the historic opulence of the home’s interior, this elaborate event combines an array of tantalizing culinary delectables with all the ceremony and charm of salon life in the mannered past. Among the many tea and coffee accompaniments typically offered are classic chicken, celery, and almond finger sandwiches; smoked salmon, dill blinis, and caper rémoulade Cornish pasties; fresh scones with raspberry jam and double cream; French macarons, lemon myrtle meringue tarts, garden berries crowned in white chocolate crémeux, and more. Thoroughly sated and amply relaxed, you’ll reenter the 21st century reluctantly after the hour-long drive back to Geelong Pier.

Points of interests

Points of Interest: Werribee Park Mansion, Victoria State Rose Garden, High Tea in the Refectory Parlor

Note

Please note: This moderate excursion involves short walks to and from the coach to the Mansion, with walking at guest direction over gravel and paved walkways within the gardens. Guests must be able to embark and disembark the vehicle without assistance. Those with mobility difficulties should have an able-bodied companion to assist. Note that Werribee is a heritage building with no elevator; stairs must be navigated to access upper levels within the venue. Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Wear casual clothing and comfortable walking shoes and bring your preferred sun protection. Special dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice. The order of sights and activities may vary.