Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to Ballarat.

Weekends and school holidays

10:00–16:00 · Saturdays, Sundays and every day of the Victorian school holidaysClosed on weekdays during school terms, on Christmas Day and on New Year’s Day

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the castle

Kryal Castle is at Leigh Creek, in the foothills of Mount Warrenheip, about 15 minutes’ drive east of central Ballarat.

• By car: the castle is about an hour and 15 minutes from Melbourne and 15 minutes from Ballarat, with free parking on site.
• By taxi or ride-share: there is no direct public transport, so take a taxi or ride-share from Ballarat, and arrange your return in advance.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• Food and drink on site, including vegan, vegetarian, halal and gluten-free options.
• Free parking on site, with easy access to the castle.
• The jousting arena, home to the jousting and Skill at Arms shows.
• Food and drink on site, with vegan, vegetarian, halal and gluten-free options.

Dress for the weather: the shows go ahead in rain, hail or shine. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

The castle grounds are wheelchair and pram accessible. On arrival, wait by the Traders Gates, the large double gates to the left of the staircase, and staff will open them and help you inside.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
• Ask castle staff for assistance or directions during your visit.

Enjoy the castle thoughtfully

• Children aged 15 and under must be supervised by an adult at all times.
• Pets are not permitted, to protect the castle’s animals; certified assistance animals are welcome, so tell the Box Office on arrival.
• Costumes are encouraged, but large or historically accurate weapons are not allowed; small plastic or foam props are fine.
• Use the bins around the castle for rubbish and food scraps.
• Follow the knights’ and staff instructions around the arena and the activity areas.

A little care keeps the castle safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Make time for a pause

The castle’s eateries serve food and drink until closing at 16:00, with vegan, vegetarian, halal and gluten-free options, and you are welcome to bring your own food. For an evening meal, Sturt Street in central Ballarat has many restaurants.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

Your day entry allows pass-outs, so you can leave and come back the same day.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: go to the Box Office at the castle entrance and follow your ticket’s instructions.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, a warm layer and a charged phone make the day easier.
• Leave space to linger: allow time for the jousting, the maze and the climb up the towers.