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Williamstown information and attractions

Introduction:

Williamstown is located at the mouth of the Yarra River where it enters Hobsons Bay and Port Phillip Bay, south-west of the Melbourne city centre.

Originally Melbourne's first sea port, Williamstown has developed from what was a run-down industrialized centre into a popular and fashionable maritime village, featuring many historical buildings and a variety of cafes and restauarants. The suburb is surrounded on three sides by water, with the northern and eastern coastline dotted with piers, gardens and remnants of Williamstown's maritime history. Williamstown beach is located on the suburb's southern coastline and features a sweeping expanse of sand fronting calm swimming waters.

Top attractions in the area include the Williamstown Maritime Museum, located on the HMAS Castlemaine which is moored at Gem Pier. Cruises on the Yarra River and the bay depart regularly from Gem Pier, while a number of galleries can be found in Nelson Place which runs parallel to the foreshore. Williamstown hosts a number of events including the annual Williamstown Festival and a popular monthly craft market.

 
Attractions:

HMAS Castlemaine
Inspect a warship which has been completely restored and is anchored at Gem Pier

Shopping & markets:

Williamstown Craft Market
Held on the third Sunday of every month from 10am to 4pm, the market features up to 100 stalls on the water's edge, with all items sold being hand made or home grown

Parks, gardens & trails:

Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park
Containing a rich history associated with Victoria's early settlement, it features the Timeball Tower that was built in 1849 to guide ships past the nearby reef
Jawbone Flora & Fauna Reserve
Stretching along the coast from the mouth of Kororoit Creek, it consists of open grasslands traversed by walking and bicycle tails, wetland lakes and a mangrove conservation area

Festivals & events:

Williamstown Festival
This major community festival includes parades, workshops, musical and dramatic performances

Local tourist guides:

Williamstown Online
Community run website featuring news, events, activities, shopping guides
Walkabout - Williamstown
A travel guide with information on the history of the area and things to see

* All the above links are external and open up in a new window

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