The Yarra Valley's most visited gin distillery sits on Lilydale Road in Healesville, welcoming visitors seven days a week. This guide covers the operating schedule, what's included with free entry, and the logistics that shape a smooth visit.
Quick answer
The yarra valley gin distillery opens at 10:30 every day, closing at 17:30 Monday through Thursday and Sunday, with extended hours until 21:00 on Friday and Saturday. Entry is free; tastings and guided experiences are charged separately. The distillery is located at 2 Lilydale Rd, Healesville, and early arrival between 10:30 and 12:00 secures the best access to the gin garden and tasting bar before afternoon crowds.
Four Pillars operates the region's most awarded gin distillery from a copper-clad facility that opened in 2013 and now draws more than 100,000 visitors annually. The yarra valley gin distillery runs its copper stills—named Wilma, Jude, Eileen, and Cameron—in view of the tasting room, a transparency that has become the site's signature. The distillery schedule accommodates day visitors and those combining stops across wine country. Weekday hours suit a relaxed tasting before or after winery visits, while weekend evening service turns the garden into a destination for gin cocktails and shared plates. Botanicals used in production are grown on-site, and the distillery's rare gin library—comprising limited releases and barrel-aged expressions—is available for sampling at the bar. Reservation systems apply to structured experiences, but walk-ins are welcome at the tasting counter and garden seating. Healesville's location 65 kilometres northeast of Melbourne places the distillery within an hour's drive of the city, and most tour operators include it in half-day or full-day Yarra Valley itineraries. The facility shares its address with a restaurant, laboratory, and cooperage, a clustering that supports the extended Friday and Saturday hours. Visitors arriving by car will find dedicated parking, and those traveling by tour coach should confirm drop-off arrangements with their operator, as the site's entry driveway is shared with adjacent hospitality venues. The distillery's approach to tastings is structured: a core flight introduces the flagship gin and two seasonal variants, while the full experience steps through barrel-aged and experimental batches. Each tasting is led by trained staff who explain the botanical profile and distillation method. The gin garden—an open-air space lined with native plants—operates as a walk-in bar where cocktails and tasting paddles are served without reservation. The garden reaches capacity on warm weekend afternoons, reinforcing the value of an early arrival window. Those planning a visit should note that the distillery does not offer complimentary tastings; all sampling is priced per flight or cocktail, a model consistent across Yarra Valley spirits producers.
“Four Pillars runs its copper stills in view of the tasting room, a transparency that has become the site's signature.”
The Four Pillars Gin Distillery in Healesville maintains consistent weekly operating hours, with extended evening service on Fridays and Saturdays.
Entry to the distillery is free, allowing visitors to access the premises and gin garden without an upfront admission fee. Costs only apply if you choose to participate in guided tastings or specific distillery experiences.
Verdict: A typical visitor pays 0 AUD for entry, with total costs depending solely on individual choices regarding tastings or guided experiences.
The distillery is located at 2 Lilydale Rd, Healesville, VIC 3777, Australia. It is most easily reached by car via the Maroondah Highway or through regional public transport connections.
Maroondah Highway (B360) from Melbourne
685 bus from Lilydale Station to Healesville
Direct from Lilydale Station
Arrive between 10:30 and 12:00 to secure a spot in the gin garden or book a tasting before peak afternoon crowds.
The best arrival window is 10:30–12:00 to secure a spot in the gin garden or book a tasting before peak afternoon crowds. Visiting during these hours ensures a more relaxed experience before the distillery reaches maximum capacity.
—
Arrive early to enjoy quiet surroundings and personalized service during the calmer start of the day.
Mild 15°C–20°C
Crisp air and fewer tourists provide a comfortable environment for outdoor gin garden seating.
Cool to mild 16°C–22°C
The surrounding Yarra Valley flora is active, creating a pleasant backdrop for a mid-morning visit.
Warm 25°C+
Expect significant congestion; arrive at opening to guarantee seating before afternoon peak crowds.
Verdict: The optimal slot for a quiet visit is Tuesday to Thursday between 10:30 and 12:00, particularly during the shoulder months of April or October.
Prepare these essentials before visiting Four Pillars Gin Distillery in Healesville.
Everything you need to know about yarra valley gin distillery
Entry to the facility is 0 AUD, meaning you do not pay to enter the premises. Please note that individual tastings, masterclasses, and other specific experiences are charged separately.
The site is open Monday to Thursday from 10:30 to 17:30, and on Friday and Saturday from 10:30 to 21:00. Sunday hours are 10:30 to 17:30, ensuring plenty of time to explore the range of craft spirits.
We recommend arriving between 10:30 and 12:00 to secure a spot in the gin garden or to book a tasting session before peak afternoon crowds arrive. This early window provides a quieter environment for guests to enjoy their drinks and botanical flights.
Families are welcome to visit the grounds of the yarra valley gin distillery, though alcohol service is strictly limited to patrons aged 18 and over. Staff monitor the space to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all visitors enjoying the Yarra Valley landmarks.
While walk-ins are sometimes possible, booking your tasting experience at this gin house is highly recommended, especially on busy weekends. Securing your spot online helps you avoid potential wait times during high-traffic hours.
The distillery is located at 2 Lilydale Rd, Healesville, VIC 3777, Australia. It serves as a central hub for those exploring the wider Healesville region and nearby Yarra Valley wine tours.
Yes, the yarra valley gin distillery is open on both Saturdays and Sundays for visitors. It remains open until 21:00 on Saturdays, providing an evening option for those finishing their day in the region.