be local


The Farmers Arms prides itself on supporting the local community and ensuring all visitors get to taste the unique flavours of the region. Here are some of the local businesses you can experience during your time with us.

 

Daylesford Meat Co

Daylesford Meat Co

Daylesford Meat Co supply ethically farmed, quality meat from local sources.  The Daylesford Meat Co lamb and beef are home grown from Green Hills, their family farm near Malmsbury.

Black Cat Truffles

Black Cat Truffles provide winter truffle farm hunts, tastings and truffle products to discerning foodies. The Farmers Arms use fresh and truffle infused products from this beautiful 20 acre property in the Central Victorian Highlands overlooking the Creswick State Forest. 

Terra Australis/ Herbal Lore

Housed in the back streets of Daylesford in an Old Buttery Factory, Terra Australis is a cellar door and distillery dedicated to creating tasty liqueurs, gin and vodka.  They are expertly crafted with rare and specially chosen botanicals which are all top secret.

Daylesford Brewing Co.

Daylesford Brewing Co. is all about “Putting the Ale back into Daylesford”.  Owners, Dave and Jessica, have now established a brewhouse that we would highly recommend…it comes a close second to sitting at our bar while enjoying their Pale Ale on tap!

Hepburn Distillery

Hepburn Distillery began with the idea of local and drawing from the mineral-rich soil, and abundant rainfall of Hepburn Shire. Surrounded by forest in cold, spud country, they were inspired to make a product that grew locally, was free of chemicals and low in food miles. They source as many of their raw materials as they can locally, organically and seasonally and even grow some of the botanicals for their gin.

 

Friday night COMMUNITY raffle

Our famous Friday night raffle is a night full of fun and a great way to support the local community!


Each Friday night from February through to November, locals and visitors gather together in the front bar to raise funds for local charities and community organisations. A hilarious evening where a $1 ticket will see you cheering as the winners are drawn. The tradition of the raffle is evident, as the host calls “re-draw” and the entirety of the bar sing the phrase along with her - it’s definitely not their first time here.

The huge array of prizes, including the famous meat tray from The Daylesford Meat Co. is the intended appeal, but in reality, the opportunity to support local charities, have some good quality banter, and meet with friends, old and new, is what makes the famous Friday night raffle such a beloved tradition.

Top 10 things to do

in Daylesford


There is magic in both the fresh country air and deep spring mineral water around Daylesford. For over 100 years people have been visiting to heal, to unwind and rejuvenate. You may wish to lounge about in the beautiful accommodation after lunch or dinner with us, you may also wish to get out and about to discover more. Here are some suggestions that we’re sure you’ll love.

Trentham Falls, Victoria

  1. Farmers Arms Hotel

Farmers Arms Hotel

It’s not often you can sit at a bar that is pretty much the same as it was 165 years ago, with all the modern comforts of course. For 165 years, the Farmers Arms Hotel has been a gathering place for Daylesford locals and travellers alike. Nowadays, it has evolved into one of the biggest supporters of local producers, showcasing wild and farmed ingredients from around Daylesford and the best of the region. Come expecting delicious cocktails, 16 wines by the glass and 12 beers/ciders on tap. Leave with a full belly and a desire to move to Daylesford - that way, the Farmers Arms will always be 'your local' in both proximity and spirit.

2.     Mount Franklin

Mount Franklin is an extinct volcano about 10 km north of Daylesford. It has a distinct appearance that you can see over 100kms away. A large bushfire burnt the forested area, and locals replanted non-native trees like conifers, birch, poplars, sycamore and California Redwood, making its peak stand out from the rest.

3.     Rejuvenate

Whether it be a facial, massage, yoga session, forest bathe or soak in our mineral spas, Daylesford is the best place to slow down and take time to care for yourself. We would highly recommend Daylesford Massage Healing to provide various treatments and The Mineral Spa at Peppers Mineral Springs hotel for mineral bathing. 

4.     Trentham Falls

The longest single-drop waterfall in Victoria, dramatically plunging 32 metres, Trentham Falls formed over five million years ago when rapidly cooling lava flowed along the old Coliban Raver valley. If you particularly enjoy this outing, you’ll also love Sailors Falls and The Blowhole. Mind you, they look their best after a shower of rain.

5.     Lake Daylesford

Lake Daylesford is the perfect place to relax by the water or go for the 45-minute walk around the lake’s gentle-sloping, tree-lined path, taking in a couple of stops (the jetty is a good one) to soak up the stunning vistas.

6.     Convent Gallery

Perched high on the hill overlooking Daylesford, the Convent Gallery has been lovingly restored 19th century mansion is one of Australia’s best regional art experiences. Featuring soaring ceilings, grand archways and six acres of magnificent gardens dotted with sculptures, plus seven galleries and a restored chapel, a visit here is unforgettable.

7.     Walking and Hiking

Daylesford and surrounding areas have many options, whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a strenuous hike. Explore the Lederderg State Park, Mt Franklin’s volcanic crater or the beauty and seclusion of the Wombat State Forest. 

8.     Breakfast and Lunch

We hold a high standard for food and would not recommend anything less. Lake House has set the benchmark in the region as well as across Australia. You will be sure to have an amazing fine dining experience. Pancho has a great team and is super busy, and the reason? The food is delicious and would compare to one of your finest Melbourne brunch spots. 

9.     Chocolate

Daylesford The Chocolate Mill

We’re within walking distance of Daylesford Hot Chocolate and a short drive to the Chocolate Mill near Mt Franklin. Grab some treats for the trip home or gifts for those who couldn’t come with you.

10.  Markets

The weekly Daylesford Sunday Market is run with the heritage Daylesford Spa Country Railway. Together they are a popular way to take the trip down memory lane on the historic train and return to fill up your boot with treasures and your weekly produce shop.