Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

People walking through paths on a green mature European garden, surrounded by water features.

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Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

Nestled beside the historic Burnham Beeches estate, Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden is the magnificent remnant of 1930s landscape design. Renowned for its extensive water features, exotic trees, fine rock walls and sweeping terraces, this 13-hecatre haven reflects the grandeur of one of Victoria’s most impressive hill station gardens from the early 20th century.

Transferred to the State in 1973, the garden preserves a remarkable collection of exotic plants and mature specimens. Visitors can wander along a network of meandering paths beneath towering Mountain Ash trees, discovering new perspectives at every turn.

Make your way down to the picturesque lake, where a charming boathouse offers the perfect picnic spot. Pause in the gazebo to admire the captivating sculpture by Mark Stoner or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll with your dog (on lead) through the arboretum’s ever-changing tapestry of blooms and foliage.

Though Alfred Nicholas’s Art Moderne mansion is no longer part of the property, its presence is still felt — clearly visible through the trees and providing a glimpse into how house and garden once formed a single, grand landscape.

Delightful in every season, the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden is a tranquil escape that blends history, horticulture, and natural beauty into one unforgettable experience.

Opening hours

Daylight hours, seven days except on days of Extreme Fire Danger Rating or severe weather events.

People walk along a paved path surrounded by mature autumnal European trees.

Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden

The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden (formerly the National Rhododendron Garden) is host to brilliantly coloured blooms of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, cherries and daffodils. Seasonal changes ensure the gardens are a delight all year around.
Two retired men go on a long walk through lush temperate rain-forest near Eagles nest picnic ground.

Dandenong Ranges National Park

Protecting the tall forests of the Dandenongs, this park is well known for its spectacular Mountain Ash trees and lush fern gullies, and is ideal for relaxing picnics and tranquil forest walks.
Two people walking along a wide path surrounded by trees and undergrowth at RJ Hamer Arboretum

RJ Hamer Arboretum

Originally a pine plantation, the present-day 101-hectare Arboretum was established in the 1970s and provides a lovely place for relaxation, recreation and distant views of the Yarra Valley and the Great Dividing Range.
A garden path forks in two directions surrounded by autumn-coloured trees.

Pirianda Garden

With magnificent views and a backdrop of ever-changing colours, photographers and bird watchers are in for a treat at Pirianda Garden, while the lawns are perfect for spreading out with a picnic feast.
Four friends relax by the edge of the Yarra River as their curly brown dog gets ready to jump in the water.

Dog friendly parks

Find where dogs are allowed in parks across Victoria so you can enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend.

Tours and adventure experiences in parks

One of the best ways you can get into nature is with a Licensed Tour Operator.

There are more than 400 Licensed Tour Operators across Victoria who are ready and waiting to help you experience and connect with Victoria’s spectacular parks and waterways.

Discover more than 60 different types of nature-based experiences including hiking, mountain biking, boating, four-wheel driving, indigenous culture tours, birdwatching, surfing, diving and so much more. 

Licensed Tour Operators know all the best places to go and will plan and prepare your visit to ensure you are safe and can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.

Find a Licensed Tour Operator

How to get there

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

The garden is located at 1A Sherbrooke Road, Sherbrooke, in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges. Visitor parking is available directly across the road from the main entrance.

Please note that parking can be limited during busy periods such as autumn, spring, and on weekends. If the car park is full, consider visiting another nearby garden, or plan your trip for a weekday or early morning/late afternoon for a more peaceful experience. There is no bus or coach parking on site.

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

When you're there

Download the Dandenong Ranges National Park - Sherbrooke Area map to see the location of Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens and other attractions nearby.

For itinerary ideas and visitation tips, download the Explore Stunning Gardens in the Dandenong Ranges brochure.

Help us care for the garden:

  • Carry in, carry out. No rubbish bins are provided, please take all waste with you.
  • Dogs are permitted on leash only.
  • Drones cannot be used without a pre-approved permit.
  • Protect the plants. Do not pick or remove vegetation, leave it for others to enjoy.

Related Sites

When to go

During summer, the garden comes alive with hydrangeas, fuchsias, native ferns, rhododendrons, and delicate native terrestrial orchids. The shaded paths beneath towering Mountain Ash trees provide a cool and tranquil retreat on warm days.

Need to know

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

Accessibility

The garden’s hilly terrain and historic layout may present challenges for some visitors. Set on a sloping site, pedestrian access to the lake is via a long (approximately 1 km) steep, unsealed path that winds through the garden. These pathways, along with several stone steps, are not recommended for wheelchair users or people with limited mobility.

At the top of the garden, several sealed pathways can be accessed by wheelchair with assistance, offering pleasant views and access to key features near the entrance. A designated accessible toilet is located close to the park office for visitor convenience. 

Assistance Dogs

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.

Safety in nature

The garden is home to a variety of wildlife, including snakes and spiders. Wasps may also be present.

Waterbodies are for display only and are not suitable for swimming; children must be closely supervised at all times. Paths can become slippery when wet, and large trees are prominent throughout the garden.

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden is in the Central fire district. Bushfire safety is a personal responsibility. Anyone entering parks and forests during the bushfire season needs to stay aware of forecast weather conditions. Check the Fire Danger Rating on the VicEmergency website or smartphone app or call their hotline on 1800 226 226.

This garden is closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger Rating or severe weather events for visitor safety.

Weddings

Thinking of holding a wedding ceremony or taking wedding photography in the garden? Find out more about wedding permit applications and guidelines.

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

  • Notices Affecting Multiple Sites

    Dandenong Ranges Gardens - Autumn Foliage Guide

    🍁 Dandenong Ranges Gardens – Autumn Foliage Guide
    Between March and May the Dandenong Ranges Gardens β€” including the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden, Pirianda Garden, George Tindale Memorial Garden, and R.J. Hamer Arboretum β€” come alive with stunning autumn colour.
     
    🌲 When to Visit
    Expect larger crowds during autumn, especially on weekends and during the Easter school holidays. For a quieter experience, consider visiting mid-week, early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
     
    πŸš— Parking
    On-site parking is limited at each garden site. If car parks are full, we recommend exploring another nearby garden.
     
    🌳 Prefer a Peaceful Visit?
    Try one of these gardens for a quieter experience:
    • Pirianda Garden
    • George Tindale Memorial Garden
    • R.J. Hamer Arboretum
    • Mt Dandenong Arboretum
     
    πŸ‚ Understanding Autumn Foliage
    Because it’s a natural process, the timing and intensity of autumn colours vary each year. Some trees start changing in late March, but the peak display usually occurs from mid-April to early May.
    The quality of autumn colour depends on weather conditions:
    • Good rainfall during summer leads to brighter foliage.
    • Dry conditions or warm weather can delay colour change and dull the display.
    • Cool nights and mild days bring out the best colours.
    • Strong winds or heavy rain can shorten the season by removing leaves too early.
     
    🧭 Accessibility
    The garden’s hilly terrain and layout may present challenges for some visitors. While garden paths are sealed and wide, they can be steep. Unassisted wheelchair access is not recommended. The two arboretums only feature unsealed paths.
     
    🚌 Garden Tour Bus (Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden):
    A great option for visitors with limited mobility, this paid, one-way audio tour covers the original Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden (not the new Chelsea Australian Garden). Click here for more information.
     
    🚫 Visitor Guidelines
    To protect these special places for everyone, please note:
    • Dogs on lead only
    • No dogs permitted at the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden
    • No bins provided – please carry in, carry out all rubbish.
    • No drones permitted
    • No picking or removing vegetation – leave for others to enjoy!
     
    🚌 Coach Parking
    There is a dedicated coach/bus drop-off zone beside the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden entrance (24 The Georgian Rd, Olinda). Once passengers have exited, coaches should park at the nearby Olinda Pool & Community House Car Park (79-81 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, Olinda), before returning to the same location for passenger collection.
     
    πŸ“– Attached: Garden Guide
    Use the garden guide attached to explore stunning gardens of the Dandenong Ranges.
    No matter when you visit, the gardens always offer something beautiful to enjoy.

    Attachments: Explore stunning gardens in the Dandenong Ranges 2023 (4,237KB)

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