Nestled at the gateway to the Yarra Valley, Lilydale is a vibrant and welcoming suburb that blends the charm of country living with the convenience of Melbourne’s outer-east. Known for its leafy streets, thriving local businesses and access to nature, Lilydale continues to attract first home buyers, growing families and down-sizers alike.
Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, enjoy quality schooling, or become part of a tight-knit community, Lilydale has it all. At Noble Knight Real Estate, we’ve helped countless locals buy and sell in this beautiful pocket of Victoria — and we’re excited to introduce you to why so many choose to call Lilydale home.
Why Choose Lilydale?
Located just 35km east of Melbourne’s CBD, Lilydale offers the best of both worlds — the serenity of the Yarra Valley and the accessibility of city life. With a growing mix of heritage homes, new developments, and leafy streetscapes, it’s no surprise that the suburb is fast becoming a favourite among first-home buyers and families. Lilydale’s vibrant town centre features cafés, boutique shops, major supermarkets and essential services, all within walking distance or a short drive. It’s a suburb where lifestyle, location and community truly align.
The History & Heart of Lilydale: Lillydale Lake
A centrepiece of the suburb, Lillydale Lake is more than just a scenic spot — it’s part of Lilydale’s cultural and recreational identity. Originally constructed for flood mitigation in the late 20th century, the lake has evolved into a family favourite, offering a tranquil 28-hectare water body surrounded by walking tracks, picnic areas, BBQ facilities, a popular playground and an off-lead dog park.
Today, it’s a hotspot for kayaking, birdwatching, and weekend gatherings — a perfect example of the lifestyle that draws families to the area.
Image: Playground at Lilydale’s Lillydale Lake
5 Top Family Activities in Lilydale
Thinking of moving your family here? Here are five top things to do with kids in Lilydale:
- Adventure Playground at Lillydale Lake – Let the little ones run wild while you relax with a coffee from the nearby food vans.
- Yarra Ranges Regional Museum – A great place to explore local history and rotating exhibitions in the heart of town.
- Lilydale Outdoor Pool – Open during the warmer months and a hit for families wanting to cool off close to home.
- Box Hill Institute Community Events – Keep an eye out for school holiday programs, markets and short courses.
- Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail – Perfect for a weekend bike ride or nature walk through the rolling hills of the Yarra Valley.
Education & School Zones in Lilydale
For families considering a move, education is often a top priority — and Lilydale delivers. The suburb offers a wide range of public and private schools with strong reputations, as well as access to vocational and tertiary pathways.
Key schools in the area include:
- Lilydale High School: A well-established government secondary school with a strong academic and co-curricular program.
- Mount Lilydale Mercy College: A Catholic co-educational school with modern facilities.
- Lilydale Heights College: A government secondary college that has undergone significant redevelopment, delivering a modern approach to learning.
- Lilydale Primary School: A welcoming government primary school with strong links to the community and a supportive environment for younger learners.
Image: Lilydale Primary School
To find out which schools your future home is zoned for, you can use the official Victorian Government school zone map. This resource helps you search by address to ensure your family is eligible for enrolment at your preferred local school.
For those pursuing further study, Lilydale is also home to Box Hill Institute’s Lilydale Lakeside Campus, offering TAFE and higher education courses in a picturesque setting by the lake.
Current Homes for Sale in Lilydale
Curious about what’s available? Take a look at our Lilydale Properties for Sale page to see what’s currently on the market. We regularly update our listings, so whether you’re searching for a family home, a first investment or a quiet down-sizer, you’ll find plenty of options to explore.
Living Local: A True Community Feel
From weekend farmers markets and live music events to boutique cafés and sporting clubs, Lilydale strikes a perfect balance between activity and ease. The suburb’s proximity to the Maroondah Highway, Lilydale Train Station, and major bus lines means commuting or exploring the Yarra Ranges is a breeze.
If you’re ready to make your move or simply want to learn more about the area, contact our team of local experts here at Noble Knight Real Estate. We know Lilydale because we live and breathe it — and we’d love to help you find your perfect place here.