Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
Goran Dojcinovic, Pexels
Daylesford's bar and drinking scene is characterized by quality over quantity, offering a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on local produce, excellent wines, craft beers, and artfully prepared cocktails.
Entertainment and Music:
Daylesford's entertainment scene is centered around vibrant community festivals and welcoming hospitality venues, offering a blend of cultural experiences and live music.
The Daylesford Hotel frequently hosts live music, featuring various genres from jazz and swing to disco bingo, providing a consistent option for evening entertainment. Beyond regular venue offerings, the town comes alive with music during festivals such as the ChillOut Festival and Winter Sounds, which showcase diverse local and national talent across multiple locations.
1. The Daylesford Hotel
Type: Pub and Bistro
Stepping into The Daylesford Hotel, one experiences the heart of the town, bustling with both locals and visitors. It offers a lively public bar perfect for a casual drink and a pub meal, or a more intimate bistro setting. The newly introduced Bar Bamford provides a moody cocktail lounge experience, and the beer garden or balcony offers scenic sunset views. Live music events often add to the vibrant yet comfortable atmosphere.
Getting There: Located centrally on Vincent Street, it is easily accessible on foot from most areas within Daylesford's main precinct.
2. Bar Merenda
Type: Wine Bar and Eatery
Bar Merenda provides a delightful fusion of a wine bar and eatery, boasting an impressive selection of over 700 local and international wines. The atmosphere is charming and conducive to an unforgettable experience, whether enjoying a full meal or small tapas plates.
Getting There: Situated on Howe Street, Bar Merenda is within easy walking distance from Daylesford's main street.
3. The Altar Bar, The Convent Daylesford
Type: Cocktail and Wine Bar
Nestled within The Convent, The Altar Bar offers a stylish and seductive backdrop for an intimate rendezvous or a lively gathering. The contemporary lounge features the original repurposed altar, creating a unique ambiance where one can enjoy bespoke cocktails, a selection of fine wines, or a warm mulled wine by the fireplace.
Getting There: The Convent Daylesford is located on the historic Wombat Hill. While walkable from the main town (approximately 7 minutes from the Daylesford Hotel), a short taxi ride would be convenient, particularly in the evening. Taxi costs typically vary by distance and time of day.
4. Daylesford Brewing Co.
Type: Craft Brewery and Taphouse
This popular local taphouse offers a charming and airy space with both indoor and outdoor seating. It is a relaxed setting where visitors can enjoy a variety of craft beers, including their popular pale ale and lager, along with rotating seasonal specials.
Getting There: Found in the heart of Daylesford, it is easily reached on foot from the central area.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
