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Churchill Island tickets

Experience farm-life with Churchill Island tickets

Churchill Island is a small island situated in Western Port Bay in Victoria, Australia. The island has an area of 57 hectares and is home to a working heritage farm, a historic homestead, and a range of natural attractions. Visitors to Churchill Island can explore the farm and learn about farming practices from the 1800s, visit the homestead, enjoy the walking trails, and watch the daily farming activities. The island also hosts regular events, including markets and festivals.

Why Visit Churchill Island

Churchill Island

Where is Churchill Island Located?

Address: 246 Samuel Amess Drive, Churchill Island, Newhaven, Victoria 3925, Australia

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Getting There

  • By bus: You can take the V-line bus that operates from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne to Cowes on Phillip Island. From here, Churchill Island is a 20-min drive.
  • By car: We suggest that you either take a taxi or drive by yourself to Churchill Island as this is the best way to get around Phillip Island. It's a 90-min drive to Phillip Island from Melbourne, and another 10-min drive to reach Churchill Island.

Getting to Phillip Island

Churchill Island

By Bus

To reach Churchill Island by bus, you can take the V/Line bus service from Melbourne to Phillip Island, which is the closest town to Churchill Island. From there, you can take the public bus operated by Phillip Island Bus Lines to Churchill Island. The bus stop at Newhaven is the closest to Churchill Island. From the bus stop, you can walk to the island, which is about 2.5 km away.

Churchill Island

By Metro

There is no metro service to Churchill Island as it is a rural location. The closest metro station to Churchill Island is the Southern Cross Station in Melbourne. From there, you can take the V/Line train to either Dandenong or Cranbourne, and then transfer to the bus service to Phillip Island. Once you reach Phillip Island, you can take the public bus or a taxi to Churchill Island.

Churchill Island

By Car

To reach Churchill Island by car from Melbourne, take the Monash Freeway (M1) to the Cranbourne exit. From there, follow the South Gippsland Highway (M420) to the Bass Highway (A420), which will take you to the bridge to Phillip Island. Cross the bridge and continue straight ahead until you reach the roundabout at the Newhaven township. Take the first exit onto Back Beach Road, and then turn left onto Samuel Amess Drive, which leads to Churchill Island. There is ample parking available on the island for visitors. The drive from Melbourne to Churchill Island takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Best Time to Visit Churchill Island

Churchill Island

The best time to visit Churchill Island is during the spring and autumn months, from September to November and March to May, respectively. The weather is mild, and the island is less crowded during these times. However, the island is open year-round, and each season offers its unique charm and activities.

Churchill Island’s History in a Nutshell

Churchill Island has a rich history, dating back to the early 1800s when it was first settled by European farmers. Over the years, the island has been used for grazing sheep and cattle, growing crops, and harvesting kelp. In the 1870s, a homestead was built on the island, which has been restored and preserved as a heritage site. Today, Churchill Island is a working farm and tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the island's agricultural and cultural past.

Churchill Island Highlights

Churchill Island

Farmer's Market

The Churchill Island Farmers Market is a monthly market held on the fourth Saturday of every month. It offers visitors the opportunity to purchase fresh, locally produced fruits and vegetables, artisanal bread, honey, wine, and other products. The market also features live music and food trucks.

Churchill Island

Cafe

The Churchill Island Cafe is located on the island and offers visitors a range of light meals, snacks, and drinks. The cafe uses locally sourced ingredients to create a menu that showcases the region's fresh produce. Visitors can enjoy their meals indoors or outdoors while taking in the scenic views.

Churchill Island

Animal Nursery

The Churchill Island Animal Nursery is a popular attraction that allows visitors to get up close and personal with a variety of farm animals, including lambs, goats, chickens, and more. Visitors can also feed and pet the animals, making it a fun experience for all ages.

Churchill Island

Walking Tracks

Churchill Island offers visitors a range of walking tracks, allowing them to explore the island's natural beauty and historical sites. The popular Amess Walk takes visitors on a loop around the island, passing by the island's wetlands, heritage gardens, and the historic Amess House.

Churchill Island

Daily Activities

Churchill Island offers a range of daily activities for visitors, including farm demonstrations, such as cow milking and sheep shearing, guided tours of the island's historic homestead and gardens, and wildlife shows at the animal nursery. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, fishing, and beachcombing on the island.

Churchill Island

Bird-Watching

Churchill Island is a haven for birdwatchers, with a wide range of species to spot, including pelicans, black swans, and ibises, among others. The island's wetlands, mangroves, and salt marshes provide a habitat for both migratory and resident birds, making it a must-visit destination for bird lovers.

Churchill Island Rules & Regulations

  • Respect the island's natural and cultural heritage by not removing or damaging any plants or historic items.
  • Follow all signs and instructions from staff members to ensure your safety and that of the animals and environment.
  • Do not feed the animals any human food, as it can be harmful to their health and well-being.
  • Keep the island clean by disposing of all rubbish and recyclables in designated bins.
  • Dogs are not allowed on the island, except for service animals.
  • Do not bring any firearms or other weapons onto the island.

Frequently asked questions about Churchill Island tickets

What is Churchill Island?

Churchill Island is a small island located in Western Port Bay, Victoria, Australia. It is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the region's agricultural and cultural heritage.

Is Churchill Island open to the public now?

Churchill Island is open to the public every day of the year except for Christmas Day (December 25th). The island is generally open from 10 am to 4.30 pm, with some variations in opening hours during certain times of the year.

Do I need tickets to enter Churchill Island?

Yes, visitors to Churchill Island need to purchase a ticket to enter. You can either book Churchill Island tickets, or book a Phillip Island tour that includes entry to Churchill Island.

Where can I buy tickets for Churchill Island?

You can book your Churchill Island tickets here.

How much does it cost to visit Churchill Island?

The cost of visiting Churchill Island varies depending on the time of year and the visitor's age. The general admission cost for adults is AUD 12.50, while children between the ages of 4 and 15 are charged AUD 6.00. Family and concession tickets are also available. It's best to check the official website for up-to-date pricing information.

Why is Churchill Island famous?

Churchill Island is famous for its historic farm, which dates back to the 1800s and provides a glimpse into the early European settlement of the area. It is also known for its natural beauty, including wetlands, mangroves, and a range of native plants and wildlife.

Why should I visit Churchill Island?

You should visit Churchill Island to experience Victoria's rural and cultural heritage, explore the historic working farm, and learn about the island's natural environment. It's also a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and connect with local history.

Is Churchill Island worth visiting?

Churchill Island is definitely worth a visit, as it offers a unique insight into the history and culture of the area. It is home to the historic Churchill Island Heritage Farm, a Koala Conservation Reserve, and the popular Penguin Parade, all of which make for an enjoyable and educational experience.

Where is Churchill Island located?

Churchill Island is located in Western Port, Victoria, Australia.

How much time do you need at Churchill Island?

Churchill Island can be enjoyed in as little as an hour, but it is recommended to allow for at least 2 hours to explore the island and take part in the activities on offer. Many people opt to spend a full day, or even a weekend, to fully experience everything the island has to offer.

Is the Churchill Island wheelchair friendly?

Yes, Churchill Island is wheelchair friendly, with accessible parking and toilet facilities, as well as wheelchair access to the General Viewing, Penguin Plus, and Underground Viewing areas. Additionally, there are pram and wheelchair parking stations available at all farming activity stations.

How big is Churchill Island?

It is a 50.7-hectare (125.3-acre) island located near Phillip Island.

From happy customers

Mary Grace Maningo
AU

Mary

Australia
Jul, 2025
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Awesome,!!! 10/10..! love everything about it!! Lovely staff , food, souvenirs shop, ambience and the beautiful..❣️ will definitely coming back ❤️
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets
Kerry Duke
AU

Kerry

Australia
Apr, 2025
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Incredible centre. Very modern and informative. Great experience to see the penguins in such a natural environment. Great staff, friendly and doing their best to control large crowds. Loved the no camera policy. Clean facilities, overall 10/10
Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade Tickets
Mohd Izad

Mohd

Dec, 2023
The ticeketing was good and the Churhchill Island experience is good. The Penguin Parade is just average. The Antartatic journey outdoor view is great
Phillip Island 4 Parks Pass: Penguin Parade, Koalas, Churchill Island, Antarctic Journey
Raewyn J Tubb
AU

Raewyn

Australia
Nov, 2023
The friendly staff at all the venues who were more than happy to answer any questions the kids had. They especially loved Bob the Blacksmith at Churchill Island
Phillip Island 4 Parks Pass: Penguin Parade, Koalas, Churchill Island, Antarctic Journey
Holly Miles
US

Holly

United States
Mar, 2025
Accessibility was key and was handled perfectly! My mum has bad hips and needed a wheelchair to get to the viewing area. The staff were very helpful and friendly making this a great experience. It is also great to see the level of protection being maintained for these precious animals.
Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass: Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve & Churchill Island
Vincent M Lewis
AU

Vincent

Australia
Jan, 2025
The 3 park option allowed us to get a great day on the Island with our overseas visitor. Churchill Island , koala sanctuary and of course the penguins. We also went to the knobbies the GP race track and Cowes. All excellent.
Phillip Island 3 Parks Pass: Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve & Churchill Island