Convent Gallery Daylesford
A Victorian-era former convent transformed into a vibrant art gallery, café, and shop, showcasing diverse Australian art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Convent Gallery Daylesford
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Victorian-era former convent transformed into a vibrant art gallery, café, and shop, showcasing diverse Australian art.
"A magnificent restored convent filled with art, history, and delicious scones – a must-visit!"
🎯 Follow the Guide
Don't miss hidden gems! Use the provided guide to explore every nook and cranny of the gallery.
☕ Savor the Scones
The scones at Bad Habits Café are legendary! Pair them with local jam for a true treat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Galleries
Throughout the Convent
Explore diverse contemporary and traditional artworks, with displays changing every 6-8 weeks.
Bad Habits Café
Ground floor
Enjoy delicious scones, coffee, and light meals in a light-filled atrium.
Historic Building & Gardens
Entire Convent and grounds
Wander through the beautifully restored Victorian-era convent and its scenic gardens.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Dining
Allow Ample Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Follow the Guide
Don't miss hidden gems! Use the provided guide to explore every nook and cranny of the gallery.
☕ Savor the Scones
The scones at Bad Habits Café are legendary! Pair them with local jam for a true treat. +1
💳 Be Ready to Shop
Many artworks are for sale, so bring your wallet if you're an art enthusiast!
⏳ Allow Extra Time
You'll likely need more time than you think to explore everything.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Follow the Guide
Don't miss hidden gems! Use the provided guide to explore every nook and cranny of the gallery.
☕ Savor the Scones
The scones at Bad Habits Café are legendary! Pair them with local jam for a true treat. +1
💳 Be Ready to Shop
Many artworks are for sale, so bring your wallet if you're an art enthusiast!
⏳ Allow Extra Time
You'll likely need more time than you think to explore everything.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Convent Gallery Daylesford for its stunning art collections, the delicious offerings at Bad Habits Café (especially the scones!), and the beautifully restored historic building. The owner's warmth and the ever-changing exhibitions are frequently highlighted as major draws, making it a highly recommended destination for a day out. Some visitors note that the gallery is extensive and recommend allowing ample time to explore fully.
"Went here for Sunday high tea with two others. I've never done high tea before, but I can positively say that this was the best experience I could've have. To start off, we were welcomed and offered to have a browse due to being early. When it was time to sit down, we were shown to our table and were almost immediately offered our drinks once we were settled. The mimosa was delicious and the vibe was relaxing. Our food was delivered and we started with the savories, they paired perfectly with the mimosa and gave a perfect tasting into what they have to offer. After taking our time and got to the scones, the staff came over and asked if we wanted tea or coffee, I chose the plain green tea and my company both had coffees. The green tea was a great palette cleanser and was beautiful with the scones and jam. The jam is a whole other story, it was thick and sweet, one of the best jams I have ever tasted. We soon moved on to the sweets which were also a big hit for me. We also ordered mulled wines, I'm not a huge wine lover, but this was such an amazing experience. It was the perfect blend of tart and spicy, a perfect drink for winter time. The staff were attentive and kind, we adored the service and friendly conversations shared, the owner was also very kind and bubbly, definitely something you want to see when you go to a place like that. The gallery was gorgeous and I found myself revisiting rooms, it was great to see artwork done by people who participated in the workshops. All of them ended up beautiful and unique, each to their own. We spent nearly 5 hours there, and I highly recommend this place to anyone wanting to do high tea, a date, or is an art lover. I really do hope I have time one day to come back, because I definitely will be back in the future."
Kaitlin O'Neill
"Had a lovely time at The Convent with my mother, truly a beautiful place with such a lovely café! A splendid spot to spend the end of the day or the morning for some high tea. My mother and I shared the scones, they were phenomenal. Truly scrumptious, some of the best scones we’ve ever had! So warm, so fresh, so cozy, and so delicious!
With the best customer service, too!
Wish we had more time to stay, but we had a lovely time, and will definitely come again!
☕️⛪️🍁"
Fufu
"Wow! Just wow!
The Convent is an awesome visit for anyone visiting the Daylesford area!
We were greeted by the owner and she is an amazing character! So full of life and a lot of fun!
We strongly recommend following the guide that you will be given as there are areas that you would easily miss if you don't.
It's basically a massive art gallery with some museum content and a shop all built into a magnificently restored convent.
The current display of art works was amazing, and the art changes every 6- 8 weeks.
Be sure to go here with an empty credit card because a lot of the art is for sale.
Such an awesome experience!
We didn't dine at The Convent, however you can book to dine there if you wish.
You can also book weddings at The Convent and possibly other functions.
Highly recommended visit and well worth the entry fee."
Dwane O'Dwyer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Convent Gallery is located at 7 Daly Street, Daylesford, VIC 3460. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. If you're traveling without a car, you can take a bus from Melbourne to Daylesford and then it's a short walk or taxi ride to the gallery.
Yes, there is parking available at the Convent Gallery, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, it's possible to visit without a car. Buses run from Melbourne to Daylesford, and from there, you can take a short taxi or walk to the gallery.
The Convent Gallery, Bad Habits Café, and Shop are typically open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially on public holidays.
Absolutely! The Convent Gallery is a popular destination for day trips from Melbourne, offering a beautiful escape with art, history, and great food.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entry fee to explore the art galleries at The Convent. Visitors have found it to be well worth the cost for the experience.
While not always mandatory for gallery entry, booking ahead is strongly recommended for dining at Bad Habits Café due to limited seating.
The entry fee typically grants you access to explore the various art galleries housed within the historic convent building.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring directly with the gallery if you are part of a group or have specific needs.
Generally, the cafe is accessible without paying the gallery entry fee, allowing you to enjoy a coffee or meal. However, it's best to confirm this upon arrival.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The gallery showcases a diverse range of contemporary and traditional art, including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and clothing designs, with new exhibitions frequently.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours, and some even suggest doubling that time, as there's a lot to see and absorb within the galleries and grounds.
No, the art displays are dynamic and change approximately every 6 to 8 weeks, ensuring there's always something new to discover.
Yes, a significant portion of the art displayed is for sale, so be prepared if you find a piece you love!
Absolutely! The gardens offer a beautiful and serene environment to explore, complementing the art and history of the convent.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bad Habits Café is renowned for its delicious scones, often described as some of the best ever tasted, along with great coffee and other light meals. +1
Yes, booking ahead is highly recommended for Bad Habits Café, as seating is limited and reservations are often necessary.
The café generally follows the gallery's opening hours, typically from 10 AM to 4 PM daily.
While specific menus aren't detailed, cafes in Daylesford often cater to various dietary needs. It's best to check with the cafe directly for current options.
Yes, high tea is a popular offering at The Convent, with guests praising the experience, food, and attentive service.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in the galleries, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas.
The light-filled atrium of the café, the historic architecture, and the scenic gardens offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Sharing photos on social media is common, but always be mindful of the artists' work and avoid flash photography that could damage the art.
There are no specific mentions of drone photography restrictions, but it's advisable to check local regulations and gallery policy before flying a drone.
Mornings often offer softer light, especially in the gardens, while the interior spaces can be well-lit throughout the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the café and gardens for younger children, and engaging older kids with the stories behind the building or specific artworks. The Mill Markets nearby might offer more interactive experiences for very young children if you're looking for a full day out.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore each room, as the gallery is extensive. Many pieces are for sale, offering a unique opportunity to purchase art directly from talented artists. Don't forget to check out the artists' workshops and the diverse range of mediums on display.
☕ Foodies & Coffee Lovers
Enjoy a relaxing coffee or a delightful high tea experience in the light-filled atrium. Remember to book your table in advance, especially for weekend visits or high tea, to secure your spot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Restoration of The Convent
Visitors are encouraged to appreciate not just the art within, but the building itself. Its architecture, winding staircases, and numerous rooms create a unique atmosphere for exploring exhibitions. The transformation from a place of quiet contemplation to a bustling gallery and café is a testament to its enduring appeal.
This blend of history and contemporary art makes The Convent a truly special destination. It offers a glimpse into the past while celebrating the present through its diverse artistic offerings.
Culinary Delights at Bad Habits Café
Beyond the scones, the café offers a delightful menu that includes coffee, mulled wine (a winter favorite), and other light meals. The ambiance of the café, with its light-filled atrium, adds to the overall pleasant experience, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely brunch or afternoon tea.
Due to its popularity, it's crucial to book a table in advance, especially on weekends, to ensure you can enjoy the culinary offerings. The café's integration with the gallery experience makes it easy to combine a cultural visit with a satisfying meal.
Exploring the Art Collections
A key aspect of the gallery's appeal is its rotating exhibitions. Artworks are typically refreshed every six to eight weeks, meaning that repeat visitors will always encounter new and exciting pieces. This constant evolution keeps the gallery vibrant and encourages patrons to return to see what's new.
Many visitors are impressed by the quality and variety of the art on display, with a significant portion of the works being available for purchase. This offers a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts to acquire pieces directly from the gallery, supporting local and national artists.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit