Vintage High Tea Picnic Experience at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens
a Vintage High Tea Picnic Experience
Meeting Point: Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Duration: Approx. 2-3 hours
+ self-guided exploration with illustrated map
An exclusive experience available as part of selected Hidden Lanes packages. to availability)
Enquiries:
hello@hiddenlanes.com.au
or call/SMS 0455 528 733
Experience the beauty and heritage of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens with a private vintage high tea picnic overlooking Lake Wendouree.
Inspired by Victorian-era garden leisure traditions, this Hidden Lanes experience invites you to slow down and settle into an atmosphere of calming elegance with vintage styling, fine teaware, and a peaceful outdoor setting.
Your experience begins with a short, engaging storytelling introduction, offering insight into the social traditions of picnicking in the gardens and the history of Lake Wendouree. From there, you’re free to relax into your picnic and enjoy the moment at your own pace.
Afterwards, continue exploring with fresh perspective, discovering the gardens and lakeside through the stories and details shared at the beginning of your experience.
Perfect for visitors seeking a memorable and meaningful way to experience one of Ballarat’s most iconic landscapes, this picnic is available as a morning tea or lunch, with locally prepared high tea-style catering that reflects the region’s traditional and local food culture.
Experience the Ballarat Botanical Gardens in a Truly Special Way
The Ballarat Botanical Gardens are one of Victoria’s most beautiful heritage gardens, with views across Lake Wendouree.
You’ll arrive to a beautifully prepared private setting, complete with layered rugs, vintage teaware, and thoughtfully styled details. Settle in and enjoy a high tea selection inspired by the region.
It’s a simple, elegant way to experience one of Ballarat’s most iconic locations, with time to slow down and take it in.
“It was so good. Thanks so much!”
KRIS, BALLARAT
Locally Sourced High Tea Style Catering
Your picnic includes curated high tea style catering prepared by trusted local Ballarat providers, showcasing seasonal produce and classic sweet and savoury selections traditionally associated with high tea.
Menus may vary slightly depending on seasonal availability but typically include:
• Savoury pastries and finger sandwiches
• Fresh baked sweets and desserts
• Seasonal produce and grazing selections
• Fine tea service
• Premium locally crafted sparkling refreshments
Some dietary requirements (excluding gluten free) can be accommodated with advance notice.
What’s Included
Every Vintage High Tea Picnic is thoughtfully curated by Hidden Lanes and includes:
A private picnic setting within the Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Vintage-inspired styling with rugs, cushions, low tables, and elegant details
Fine teaware and serving pieces
A locally prepared high tea selection, featuring sweet and savoury items sourced from regional producers
Locally crafted sparkling refreshments
A short, engaging storytelling introduction to the history of the gardens and Lake Wendouree
A beautifully illustrated Hidden Lanes map, designed by local artist Jarrod Hall, to guide your self-paced exploration after the picnic
Comfortable seating options, including ground seating and folding chairs if required
Full setup and pack down handled by Hidden Lanes
Picnics are designed for intimate groups of 2 to 7 guests, creating a relaxed and personalised experience.
Designed for comfort, and Flexibility
The Vintage High Tea Picnic is intentionally designed to be effortless for visitors. There is no need to organise catering, styling, or equipment yourself. Simply arrive at your booked time and enjoy.
Hidden Lanes also provides thoughtful nearby wet weather contingency planning to ensure your experience remains enjoyable regardless of changing conditions.
In light rain or cooler weather, picnics can be relocated to nearby sheltered heritage rotundas with a warm knee rug included.
In cases of more severe weather, Hidden Lanes works with a nearby trusted local partner to relocate your experience to an indoor heritage-style setting, allowing your picnic to continue in comfort while maintaining the curated high tea atmosphere.
Location
Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Lake Wendouree, Ballarat, Victoria
Exact picnic locations are selected based on seasonal beauty, guest comfort, and weather conditions to ensure the best possible experience.
Duration and Availability
Morning Tea or Lunch Experience
Approximately 2-2.5 hours
Advance bookings are recommended, particularly during weekends, school holidays, and peak tourism periods.