Woodlands Homestead — Local services in Melbourne

This establishment was featured in the Winter 2025 Melbourne/Naarm official visitor guide - this is the standard at which I am judging it. While it has a lot of potential and was probably lovely a number of years ago, I don’t think it’s currently at a standard that is fit for such promotion. We went on a Saturday around 1pm and they had run out of scones (what they are supposedly famous for). We ordered a spinach and ricotta roll from the pastry fridge (that had about 6 other savoury and sweet options) and 2 flat whites for almost $23. The roll was decent enough but the coffees tasted like they were from one of those preset instant machines (not barista-made). Everything was served in disposable containers/cups etc. There was a bit of a wait to order due to a major lack of staffing (staff at counter also frequently BOH and waiting tables while there was a queue to order). Service was adequate but don’t expect any friendly exchanges. The grounds and homestead building itself could be a really wonderful place for afternoon teas etc. with some vision and investment. Overall, I found the entire experience extremely underwhelming and disappointing, particularly as I was showing a guest from overseas and I could see that they felt...

What a priceless hidden gem this place is!!! To be living on the doorstep from it for over 25 years and never new it existed- Woodlands Homestead is my favourite place now...not sure what I love more:

A beautiful bluestone historic building built in 1700 with it's lovely gardens, an amazing gigantic Magnolia tree that is a 100 years old, seeing a retired Melbourne Cup horses, taking a walk around up to the old cottage where Toby, a very cute pony is waiting to meet you , meeting a x4 chickens or getting yourself a cup of coffee and being served by very friendly staff...there is something for all family to enjoy!!! Or simply, sit on the grass and watch the planes take off and land right opposite...

Woodlands Cafe! Great atmosphere with an amazing view of the historic landscape! Look up and watch the planes land along the airport run way! A great visit for the whole family and the little ones as there is acres to explore and take some snap shots of the local living legends thoroughbreds! Just keep in mind not to feed them 🐎

The cafe has a selection of sweets, cakes, pies and pastries and of course their popular scones accompanied well with either tea or coffee.

The venue has a well manicured garden and is also available for event hire! Plenty of seatings through out and equiped with a function room at the rear!

A visit is worthwhile and has relaxing get away vibe as soon as you...