Lakeside Tea Rooms Emerald Lake Road, Emerald, Victoria 3782

Welcome to Lakeside Tea Rooms, located at Emerald, Emerald Lake Road in Australia's beautiful Dandenong Ranges. As an establishment that offers food, meal takeaway, and a point of interest, we are dedicated to providing a memorable experience for all our visitors.

Situated within the stunning natural surroundings of the Dandenong Ranges, Lakeside Tea Rooms offers a charming and authentic atmosphere that combines the sights, smells, and sounds of the nearby Puffing Billy Railway. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this iconic Victorian attraction while enjoying world-class facilities.

Whether you're looking to reconnect with family and friends or introduce the next generation to the magic of Puffing Billy, our tea rooms provide the perfect setting. Many Melburnians have fond memories of riding the historic steam train, with legs dangling over the side as it chugs through the forest, rolling hills, and open farmland. We are thrilled to announce that the time-honored tradition of sitting on the carriage sills has returned after a temporary suspension.

At Lakeside Tea Rooms, we offer a range of journeys, including the popular Belgrave to Lakeside route, available daily. On weekends, you can also embark on additional journeys such as Belgrave to Menzies Creek, Belgrave to Gembrook, and Lakeside to Gembrook. Please remember to book your tickets online before your visit.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Dandenong Ranges as you journey onboard our open-sided carriages. Marvel at the lush fern gullies, towering Mountain Ash trees, and the immersive ambiance of this enchanting landscape.

To enhance your journey, you can pre-purchase a delicious grazing box filled with delectable treats. Enjoy your snacks as you ride over hills, through valleys, and into the lush forest along the original mountain track. Alternatively, you can save your appetite and set up a delightful picnic by Emerald Lake Park.

For a truly indulgent experience, why not pre-purchase a Devonshire Tea with your Belgrave - Menzies Creek train journey? Sit down at the Menzies Creek Museum's Lil Toot Cafe and savor freshly baked scones, velvety cream, sweet jam, and a hot beverage of your choice.

Lakeside Tea Rooms offers more than just a dining experience. Explore the surrounding walking trails, take a refreshing swim (during summer!) or enjoy a paddleboat ride on the cool waters of Lake Treganowan. Discover steam artifacts in the Lakeside Hall before hopping on board your steam train, or consider hosting an event in one of our private function rooms.

For those seeking adventure on two wheels, we have partnered with COG BIKES Australia to offer bike rentals from our Lakeside Station bike hub. Discover the wonders of the Dandenong Ranges at your own pace.

Our institution also offers educational programs for students of all ages, from Early Years to Year 11 VCE. These programs incorporate various learning activities that explore history through the lens of STEM, sustainability, cultural connection, tourism, design, and technology. Bookings for our 2023 programs are now open, with exciting new options waiting to be discovered.

We are delighted to introduce Animal Tales, a captivating photographic series by award-winning artist Karen Alsop, at our Lakeside Visitor Centre. This three-part series showcases native animals juxtaposed with human characteristics, behaviors, or situations, creating a thought-provoking and visually stunning display.

If you're ready to build lifelong friendships, contribute to the community, and be part of living history, we would love to hear from you. Puffing Billy Railway is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children and young people. Our staff and volunteers undergo thorough checks to ensure their suitability to work with children.

Come and be part of our story at Puffing Billy Railway, where we continue to run on the original mountain track from Belgrave to Gembrook, offering a unique and unforgettable experience just 40 kilometers east of Melbourne.

We strive to make our attractions accessible to all, and we have a range of facilities available for passengers with disabilities. Additionally, residents within a 10-kilometer radius of any Puffing Billy station can take advantage of our Locals Pass, which offers exclusive benefits and opportunities to learn more about the railway and its activities.

At Puffing Billy Railway, our focus is on the well-being and enjoyment of all our visitors, especially children. We are committed to providing positive experiences in a caring and safe environment. Our dedicated team members undergo thorough background checks to ensure the utmost safety and security for everyone. Our children are our future, and we encourage open communication and vigilance to ensure their welfare.

Join us at Lakeside Tea Rooms and Puffing Billy Railway for an unforgettable journey through history, nature, and cherished memories. We look forward to welcoming you.