Horsham: Budget-Friendly Things To Do

Horsham Regional Art Gallery: A Cultural Gem

Cost: Free

Things to do: Explore the illustrious art collection at the Horsham Regional Art Gallery. Delve into regional masterpieces, photography showcases and enjoy the vibrant array of visual arts. It’s an inspirational haven for art enthusiasts.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Horsham, about a 15-minute walk away. Local buses also service the area, providing easy access to the gallery.

Location/Address: 80 Wilson St, Horsham VIC 3400, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 – 17:00 (10 AM – 5 PM); Saturday to Sunday, 12:00 – 16:00 (12 PM – 4 PM)

Maydale Reserve: Your Ticket to Nature’s Splendor in Horsham

Cost: Free

Things to do: Maydale Reserve offers a serene experience with its verdant landscapes and quiet walking trails. Enjoy bird watching, a relaxing stroll, or a leisurely picnic with family and friends.

Local transportation: The nearest bus station is Horsham Interchange, with several bus services connecting to the reserve. Taxis can easily drop you nearby as well.

Location/Address: Maydale Reserve, Horsham, VIC 3400

Open Days/Hours: Accessibly open daily, daylight hours

Horsham Botanic Gardens: A Serene Escape for Nature Lovers

Cost: Free entry.

Things to do: Discover a variety of plant species and beautiful landscaped gardens. Take a peaceful walk, read a book under a tree, or enjoy a picnic with friends. It’s a refreshing break from daily life.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is Horsham, just a short walk away. Local buses such as routes 23, 98, and 200 stop nearby, making access easy.

Location/Address: Horsham Botanic Gardens, Horsham, West Sussex.

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, during daylight hours.

Wimmera River Walk: A Breathtaking Trail in Horsham

Cost: Free

Things to do: Experience the natural beauty as you walk along the Wimmera River. Observe local wildlife, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy occasional art installations. Ideal for a jog, bird watching, or a serene afternoon by the water.

Local transportation: Horsham’s local bus service can get you close to the walk. The nearest bus stops are on Baillie Street and Darlot Street, within a short walking distance to the river.

Location/Address: Wimmera River Walk, Horsham, Victoria

Open Days/Hours: Accessible every day, all day long (24/7)

Weir Park: A Pocket of Serenity in Horsham

Cost: Free

Things to do: Weir Park is an ideal place for a tranquil walk by the river or enjoying a peaceful afternoon with a book. It’s a great spot for bird watching and enjoying the natural scenery.

Local transportation: Horsham train station is the nearest, with local bus services providing convenient connections to Weir Park.

Location/Address: Weir Park, Kings Road, Horsham, RH13 5AR

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours (sunrise to sunset)

Horsham Aquatic Centre: Dive into Affordable Fun

Cost: Minimal fee may apply; some community events may be free

Things to do: Enjoy swimming in heated pools, relax in the spa, or try aqua aerobics. The centre is excellent for fitness or simply unwinding with the family.

Local transportation: The Horsham train station is just a short walk away. Buses serving the area include the 23, 24, and 25 with nearby stops.

Location/Address: Horsham Aquatic Centre, Horsham, VIC 3400

Open Days/Hours: Weekdays 06:00 – 21:00 (6 AM – 9 PM), weekends 08:00 – 19:00 (8 AM – 7 PM)

Sawyer Park: An Oasis of Tranquility in Horsham

Cost: Entry is free

Things to do: Stroll through Sawyer Park’s scenic paths, admire the local flora, and enjoy the playground with your kids. It’s a tranquil spot for a relaxing day out or a brisk walk.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are conveniently located on Main Street, with several routes servicing the area, ensuring easy access to the park.

Location/Address: Sawyer Park, Horsham, Victoria 3400

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, 24 hours (24/7)

Horsham Town Hall: Cultural Hub in the Heart of Horsham

Cost: Free admission to public areas

Things to do: Experience the local heritage at Horsham Town Hall. Explore the art gallery, catch a live performance, or relax in the community spaces. It’s a great place for culture enthusiasts and history buffs.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are located on Wilson Street, serving several routes. There’s no dedicated metro in Horsham, but the town’s bus network connects to all main attractions.

Location/Address: Horsham Town Hall, 71 Pynsent St, Horsham VIC 3400, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Varies depending on events and exhibitions, generally open during business hours

Horsham Lanes and Games: Budget-Friendly Fun for Everyone

Cost: Affordable rates with special deals on weekdays

Things to do: Strike the perfect balance between excitement and spending with bowling, laser tag, and arcade games. It’s a go-to spot for family fun or a night out with friends.

Local transportation: Horsham train station is nearby. Local bus services including routes 98 and 23 provide access to the venue, with stops a short walk away.

Location/Address: Horsham Lanes and Games, 18 Pynsent St, Horsham VIC 3400

Open Days/Hours: Weekdays and weekends, varying session times (Check official website for current hours)

Horsham Golf Club: Your Affordable Escape to the Greens

Cost: Offers a range of affordable options for golf enthusiasts.

Things to do: Swing your clubs on the beautifully maintained 18-hole course, practice your putt on the greens, or simply enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by nature.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is Horsham, with bus services including the 98 and 23 routes offering stops close to the golf club.

Location/Address: Horsham Golf Club, Denne Park, Horsham RH13 0AX

Open Days/Hours: Open daily, with tee times generally available from 07:00 (7 AM) until dusk.

Green Lake Recreation Reserve: An Idyllic Oasis

Cost: Free entry

Things to do: Green Lake Recreation Reserve serves as a serene getaway with activities like fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking. Traverse the walking trails or enjoy family-friendly sports facilities.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are along the surrounding streets. There are no metro stations directly adjacent, but the area is accessible by regional buses.

Location/Address: Green Lake Recreation Reserve, Horsham, VIC

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours recommended for visits

Longerenong College Agricultural Show: A Showcase of Rural Innovation and Tradition

Cost: Varies, with many free events

Things to do: Experience agricultural excellence at Longerenong College. Enjoy farm machinery displays, livestock competitions, and local food sampling. A must-do for anyone interested in agriculture and rural life.

Local transportation: For attendees, local buses provide convenient access to the show. The nearest bus stop is a short walk from the entrance, ensuring easy arrival and departure.

Location/Address: Longerenong College Agricultural Show, 229 Longerenong Road, Longerenong VIC 3401, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Check the event’s official website for specific dates/times

Horsham’s Soundshell: Enjoy Free Events in a Vibrant Atmosphere

Cost: Free of charge

Things to do: Join the community at Horsham’s Soundshell for diverse events, from live concerts to cultural festivals. Ideal for those looking to experience local entertainment without spending a penny.

Local transportation: Horsham railway station is within walking distance. Buses serving the area include routes 1, 2, and 23, dropping you close to the action.

Location/Address: Horsham Soundshell, Pynsent St, Horsham VIC 3400, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Events vary; check local listings for specific event times.

Horsham Saint’s Cricket Club Matches: Affordable Entertainment

Cost: Free or low-cost entry

Things to do: Experience the thrill of cricket at Horsham Saint’s Cricket Club matches. Cheer on the local team, soak up the community spirit, and enjoy a day of sports in Horsham.

Local transportation: Horsham train station is nearby, and several bus routes serve the area. Taxis and rideshares are also available for direct transport.

Location/Address: Horsham Cricket and Sports Club, Cricketfield Road, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1TE

Open Days/Hours: Match days vary; check the schedule online. Grounds typically open 2 hours before the start.

Brimbonga Park: Discover Filigree Feathers at Bird Watching Haven

Cost: Free of charge

Things to do: Engage with nature at Brimbonga Park by bird watching. Spot local species, enjoy nature trails, and unwind by the scenic lakeside. The tranquil setting is ideal for photography enthusiasts and serenity seekers alike.

Local transportation: The nearest metro station is Horsham Station. Buses such as the 23, 98, and R1 run along routes that are in proximity to the park.

Location/Address: Brimbonga Park, Horsham, Victoria

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, 06:00 – 20:00 (6 AM – 8 PM)

Horsham Dock Lake Walking Trails: An Escape into Nature

Cost: Free

Things to do: The Dock Lake Walking Trails offer a tranquil environment for wildlife spotting, leisurely strolls, and landscape photography. Ideal for unwinding or jogging amidst scenic views.

Local transportation: Horsham train station is the nearest, with bus services including routes 23 and 98 providing access to the trails.

Location/Address: Dock Lake, Horsham, West Sussex

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours 08:00 – 18:00 (8 AM – 6 PM)

Horsham – Boardwalk Viewing Platform at Wotonga Basin

Cost: Free

Things to do: Discover the marvel of wetlands at the Boardwalk Viewing Platform at Wotonga Basin. Ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers, enjoy the serene landscape and spot local wildlife in their natural habitat.

Local transportation: The nearest is Horsham Railway Station, with bus routes 23, 24 offering service nearby. A short walk will get you to the basin from the main road.

Location/Address: Wotonga Basin, Horsham, Victoria

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, daylight hours recommended for the best experience (7 AM – 7 PM).

Murtoa Stick Shed: An Architectural Marvel in the Grainscape

Cost: A small fee applies.

Things to do: Discover this large-scale, historic grain store. Gaze at the vast wooden interior and the unique construction reminiscent of a cathedral.

Local transportation: No direct metro services, but regional buses available. The nearest train station is Murtoa railway station, with connecting buses.

Location/Address: The Stick Shed, Wimmera Hwy, Murtoa, VIC 3390, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Varies; check local listings or official website for current opening days/times.

Pimpinio Wildlife Reserve: Discover Nature’s Serenity

Cost: Free

Things to do: Explore the untouched beauty of Pimpinio Wildlife Reserve. Observe local wildlife in their natural habitat, indulge in bird watching, or enjoy a relaxing walk amidst the tranquil bushland.

Local transportation: The nearest train station is in Horsham, about 15 kilometers away. From there, local buses or taxi services can be used to reach the reserve.

Location/Address: Pimpinio Wildlife Reserve, Access off Henty Highway, Pimpinio VIC 3401, Australia

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, dawn to dusk

Quantong Recreational Reserve: Discover Nature’s Serenity

Cost: Free admission

Things to do: Enjoy a tranquil day at Quantong Recreational Reserve. Explore its walking trails, have a riverside picnic, or engage in bird-watching for an experience close to nature.

Local transportation: The nearest bus stops are located in Horsham town centre, making it a convenient ride to Quantong Recreational Reserve.

Location/Address: Quantong Recreational Reserve, Horsham, Victoria

Open Days/Hours: Accessible throughout the year, dawn until dusk

Conclusion

For those exploring Horsham on a budget, the Horsham Regional Art Gallery and the Maydale Reserve stand out as the best free things to do. The gallery offers a cultural feast without a price tag, whilst the reserve provides a tranquil nature retreat.

Whether taking “London by Bus” or “London by Train,” these destinations are reachable and offer a delightful experience for travelers wanting to stretch their legs and minds without stretching their wallets.

Pro Tip: Maximize the potential of your visit to Horsham by combining your art gallery tour with a picnic at the Maydale Reserve. Both places are accessible and offer an enriching day out with zero expense.