Where it all happens
Words in Winter takes place across Daylesford and Hepburn— two towns five minutes apart, each with its own character. Most venues are walkable within each town, with a short drive between them.
Daylesford venues
Back Bar
Our official festival bar! Open Thursday- Sunday throughout the festival. Come kick back, continue your bookish conversations and Indulge in a literary inspired cocktail!
Daylesford Apothecary
In the heart of Daylesford, the Daylesford Apothecary is a healing centre and herbal dispensary devoted to local plant remedies. Visitors step into a quiet sanctuary of handcrafted tinctures, therapeutic blends, and traditional botanical treatments — each one rooted in the region's natural landscape. Walk-ins welcome.
Dillworth & Allain
Tucked away on Howe Street in Daylesford, Dilworth and Allain's Studio and Cellar Door is a working space where wine and art meet. Visitors can taste small-batch, expressive wines, view Loïque Allain's original artworks, and stay for a glass or a bottle from the cellar list. Walk-ins are welcome, though bookings are recommended for groups of six or more.
Daylesford Library
A warm and welcoming community hub on the corner of Bridport and Albert Streets, Daylesford Library offers free Wi-Fi, public computers, and a vast collection of books, movies, and eBooks. From Baby Rhyme Time and school holiday programs to author talks and book clubs, there's something for all ages at this vibrant "community lounge room."
Daylesford Hotel
Welcome to the Daylesford Hotel, where country charm meets warm hospitality in the heart of our town. Whether you're stopping by for a meal and a beer in the public bar, a special occasion dinner in the Bistro, or enjoying a spritz on the balcony, you’ll be welcomed by the same team from behind Daylesford’s much-loved Cliffy’s Emporium, now bringing their signature warmth and expertise to this grand two-storey hotel.
The Convent Daylesford
Described as "the most beautiful art gallery in Australia", the Convent is Daylesford's most iconic building, nestled on the crest of Wombat Hill. Under one magnificently restored roof, you'll discover seven gallery spaces, a museum, chapel, café, bar, and gardens — all offering a truly divine experience.
Daylesford Town Hall
Built in the 1800s, the historic Daylesford Town Hall has been lovingly restored to reveal its original architectural charm and inner beauty. Still hosting Council meetings today, this grand venue comfortably seats 385 guests for events ranging from winter festivals to community celebrations. Step inside and experience 19th-century elegance with modern comfort.
Senior Citizens Centre
A hidden gem behind Daylesford Town Hall: this bright meeting room seats 60, features a full kitchen with generous bench space, and includes a snug stage perfect for readings or small theatre. Portable tables allow easy conversion to a banquet setting.
Paradise Bookshop
Housed in an elegant Georgian bank building on the main street of Daylesford, Paradise Bookshop is a rambling maze of a bookshop. With fourteen rooms full of new and secondhand books, games, toys, sheet music, comics, vinyl, and more—be prepared to lose an afternoon in Paradise.
Hepburn venues
The Old Macaroni Factory
A remarkable piece of Australian-Italian migrant history in Hepburn Springs. Built in 1859, this heritage-listed gem features extraordinary ceiling murals—the only known example of political art in a domestic interior in Australia. Restored for modern gatherings, its walls speak of resilience, artistry and the timeless pull of home.
CONNECT Building
As part of Community Bank Daylesford and District's commitment to our local community CONNECT at 113 Main Road Hepburn Springs is available for your use at no charge if you belong to a not-for-profit community organisation. Businesses can also access the space for a small fee. Facilities include board room for up to twenty people, kitchen facilities and toilets.
Yandoit Cultural Centre
Tucked away in the bush at Yandoit's historic Uniting Church this intimate venue seats 100 and boasts excellent acoustics for live music, poetry, and film. A true community labour of love, Yandoit Cultural keeps a beloved old church in public hands – offering country hospitality, supper at every event,
Radius Art
True to its name, Radius Art features work exclusively from artists living within a 50km radius of Hepburn. This local gallery and events hub hosts exhibitions, workshops, movie nights, yoga and creative courses that encourage the curious mind within us all.
Getting there
Daylesford is 110km northwest of Melbourne, about 90 minutes by car. The nearest major airport is Melbourne Airport (MEL/Tullamarine), approximately 90km southeast of Daylesford, or about 75-80 minutes by car.
Traveling from Melbourne to Daylesford by public transport requires a combination of train and connecting coach, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Because Daylesford does not have its own train station, you will take a V/Line service and finish the trip with a regional coach.
Staying overnight
Daylesford offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. These include boutique hotels, charming bed-and-breakfasts, self-contained cottages, lakeside retreats, and luxury spa resorts. Many properties feature fireplaces, private gardens, or mineral spring baths.
Whether you're looking for a cosy overnight stop or a longer stay to explore the surrounding Hepburn Springs region, Daylesford has plenty of choices. It is advisable to book in advance