If someone says they’re bored in Ballarat, they’re almost definitely not in Ballarat.
Inspired by his passion for medieval history, Kryal Castle was built in 1974 by Keith Ryall, a former Ballarat local and entrepreneur.
Just because you can doesn’t mean you should– but in Keith’s case, he did! And 50 years later, we have medieval jousting at a castle in regional Victoria – and guess what?
It’s really rather good! (The Smashing Pumpkins’ gig there wasn’t bad either, but that’s another story!)
It’s especially good when viewed through the eyes of a child – or if you’re actually a child.
There’s also medieval dragons, medieval magic, and medieval ice cream.
For those who prefer their dragons a little more native, check out the crocodiles crunch at the Ballarat Wildlife Park.
On weekends and school holidays, visitors can marvel as ‘Crunch’ the Super-Croc, one of the largest crocodiles in Australia, feeds!
It’s a memorable experience to thrill the whole family.
Beyond crocs, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s less bitey animals.
With over 100 free-roaming kangaroos (which you can hand-feed), more than 35 koalas, various wombats and emus, and an exhibit of the world’s smallest penguins, the family-owned park is a must-visit for nature lovers young and old.
You can even see Kai and Akasha, the Sumatran-Siberian tigers (also a bit bitey) in their state-of-the-art sanctuary.
What if medieval history, ’grammable floating umbrellas, or native Australian wildlife aren’t your thing?
No problem – head down to Sovereign Hill, one of Ballarat’s most iconic attractions, and immerse yourself in the gold rush.
Pan for gold in the diggings (yes, it’s real gold), head underground for the mine tour experience Trapped, which depicts the true story of one of Australia’s worst underground mining disasters (complete with sound, wind and water effects), see the delectable raspberry drops being made – and much more.
Dang, forgot to mention, you can actually stay at Kryal Castle!
There’s a hotel nestled within the castle walls, so you can truly feel like royalty for the night.
Or a knight, for a night. Sorry.
Where can this article possibly go next?
Might I suggest The Crafty Squirrel or Hattie and the Wolf, which, as it turns out, aren’t quirky pubs, but two proudly female-owned creative businesses.
With an eco-friendly ethos, Hattie and the Wolf, run by founder Andrea Hurley, is Ballarat’s go-to store for ethically-made giftware, clothing and accessories sourced from Australia and abroad.
Equally impressive, The Crafty Squirrel, run by Morgan Wills, is located in a charming 1885 corner store.
This boutique offers a delightful mix of vintage-inspired homewares, quirky gifts and unique craft kits.
Morgan’s love for design is reflected in every carefully-curated item, many sourced from her global travels.
The store also hosts craft retreats, making it a must-visit for fans of handmade and creative treasures.
Both businesses proudly showcase the entrepreneurial spirit of women in Ballarat’s business and creative scene.
Finally, there’s no ignoring the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia’s oldest regional art gallery, and a place where you can easily spend hours exploring.
The gallery presents a wide range of exhibitions, from cutting-edge contemporary art to themed shows drawn from its extensive collection, as well as special interest ticketed exhibitions.
Housed in a heritage-listed building, the gallery has expanded to include both elegant 19th-century rooms and stunning contemporary spaces.
The gallery shop features works by local artists, alongside art books, souvenirs, and gifts.
Fully accessible, the gallery ensures all visitors can enjoy its rich artistic offerings.
So, there you go. Definitely not boring. Absolutely worth a visit. Always, brilliantly unexpected.
