A Visit to Kenilworth Bakery: Delicious Donuts + What to See & Do
The Kenilworth Bakery has been a neighborhood staple for nearly 100 years (established in 1924). It’s also home to the 1 kg donut challenge – a social media sensation that went viral, catapulting the small town country bakery into a household name.
I visit regularly on my way out to Booloumba Creek and the surrounding hinterland regions (my top picks & places to visit a little later on) and I always stop in for a donut and coffee.
The Kenilworth Country Bakery is a true neighborhood gem. Whether you stop in for your morning coffee and pastry, pick up a loaf of artisanal bread, or tackle the famous 1 kg donut challenge, the Kenilworth Bakery delivers quality and service with a personal touch every time.
Find out where it is, what to expect and the best hidden gems to explore in this region from a local’s perspective.
Where is the Kenilworth Country Bakery?
The Kenilworth Bakery is tucked away in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, located in the heart of the Kenilworth village. It’s located at 8 Elizabeth Street, Kenilworth situated on the main road as you drive through town (you can’t miss it). It’s approximately 50 minutes from Maroochydore and 30 minutes from Maleny.
Interestingly, it’s world heritage listed with its old woodfired bread oven and was established in 1924. The bakery is open 7 days a week, from 8am to 2pm, unless sold out. I’d recommend getting there early, as goods do tend to sell out very quickly!
You’ll also find a rotating selection of crusty sourdough loaves, flaky croissants, muffins bursting with berries, and even artisan pies, an incredible selection of donuts & MUCH more!
The Nutella doughnuts are an absolute gamechanger!
It’s the perfect place to stop for a weekend picnic or a Sunday drive.
Kenilworth Coastal Bakery
The fun doesn’t stop at Kenilworth though. The bakery has since expanded and now operates at the popular Mooloolaba Wharf as the Kenilworth Coastal Bakery allowing visitors from all over to get a taste of the famous baked goods.
The Kenilworth Coastal Bakery is open 7 days a week, 8am-2pm and is located at the iconic Mooloolaba Wharf, 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557.
Kenilworth Island Bakery
As if two locations weren’t enough, owner Jenna saw the potential to expand further into the Moreton Bay region, opening a new store in Bribie Island – The Kenilworth Island Bakery.
It’s located at 3 First Ave, Bongaree QLD 4507 and is open 7 days a week, 8am-2pm.
Kenilworth Bakery’s Famous Baked Goods
The Kenilworth Country Bakery experienced an incredible shift in business with their viral 1kg donut challenge.
It attracted visitors from all over to attempt the impossible – finish a 1kg donut and have your name added to a plaque and showcased within the bakery. A challenge that saw people from all over flock to the small country town to give it a crack.
After the success of the challenge, owner Jenna saw the potential in donuts, and how people loved to share them on social media, prompting a quick pivot in the new business model.
They went from selling a handful of donuts a day, to over 5000 on a Saturday morning – a phenomenal accomplishment!
Visiting Hours, Location, and More
When you visit the Kenilworth Bakery, here are the key details you need to know:
Hours of Operation
The bakery is open 7 days a week, 8am to 2pm. The earlier you go, the better – many items sell out quickly!
Location
You’ll find this neighborhood gem at 8 Elizabeth Street in the town of Kenilworth. There is street parking available on the main street and in the surrounding area.
Once inside, you’ll be greeted by the intoxicating aroma of fresh-baked goods. Display cases showcase artisanal breads, pastries, cookies, and other treats made from scratch on-site.
The staff provide friendly service with a smile. Whether enjoying a coffee and a donut at one of the cafe tables or taking your selection to-go, the Kenilworth Bakery is a delightful place to start your day or satisfy your sweet tooth.
Bring your friends, bring your family – there’s something for everyone at this beloved community bakery.
You can find more information on the Kenilworth Country Bakery on their website, Facebook or social media.
Things To Do In Kenilworth QLD
Personally, I love visiting this region because of the incredible range of hikes, trails, artisan food, local makers and the breathtaking scenery.
Here’s my absolute must see & things to do in Kenilworth & the Sunshine Coast Hinterland:
Booloumba Creek
This is usually the main reason I visit this area.
Booloumba Creek, in the Conondale National Park is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, Sunday drive or a hike through the peaceful & incredibly beautiful rainforest & surroundings.
Enjoy breathtaking swimming holes like the one found at campground 3 – a stunning natural blue hole, best experienced in the low season, and after rain has flushed out the creek.
Read our full guide on Booloumba Creek here.
Noosa National Park
Not far from Kenilworth, you’ve no doubt heard of Noosa & the Noosa National Park. It attracts visitors in droves to see some of the best coastline in Australia.
The Noosa National Park walk is an absolute highlight!
A little further on the Noosa National Park walk, you’ll find the Noosa Fairy Pools. An incredible natural rock pool that has to be seen to be believed. This is definitely one of my top 5 adventures on the Sunshine Coast.
Tip: Visit early to get a parking spot and to get the pools to yourself. Try and time your visit on an outgoing tide, with very little swell.
Kenilworth Dairies
Kenilworth Dairies (formerly Kenilworth Cheese Factory) is a must visit if you’re in the area.
Stop by to grab a cheese platter and some goodies to enjoy in the parks & natural reserves on a lazy weekend drive.
Maleny, Mapleton & Montville
You can’t escape the country charm of Maleny, Mapleton & Montville – a must visit if you’re spending a day in Kenilworth.
It’s well worth spending a weekend up here in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland to experience the variety of markets, coffee shops and restaurants.
Kenilworth Hotel & Brewery
You can’t visit Kenilworth and miss out on the incredible food & drink at the Kenilworth Hotel & Brewery. It’s located just up from the Kenilworth Country Bakery on 18 Elizabeth Street (you can’t miss it).
I would highly recommend stopping for lunch on your day trip. They have a fantastic beer garden, incredible pub style food and it’s all in a beautifully renovated, art deco style setting.
If you’re visiting on a weekend, definitely be sure to make a reservation if you can to avoid disappointment. There are fantastic, affordable rooms to stay in that have recently been refurbished. A great choice if choosing to stay overnight.
Where to Stay in Kenilworth QLD
Here’s my top local picks for Kenilworth accommodation as well as some other alternatives on where to stay in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Maleny Lodge
One of the premiere accommodation choices in the region, Maleny Lodge offers a whimsical, and quite simply, outstanding experience.
Kenilworth Country Cabins
Lavender Lane Country Cottages
Kenilworth Homestead
If you’re looking for a budget place to spend a few days camping, the Kenilworth Homestead offers a beautiful spot to settle in. It’s just a short drive from the main town, with all the facilities you could need for a short stay in the area.
In Summary
So there you have it, everything you could possibly want to know about Kenilworth Bakery, and the surrounding things to do in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
If you’re planning a trip, I’d recommend an early start to make the most of your time and avoid the weekend rush (there’s plenty of visitors from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast every weekend).
Disclaimer: These are my experiences, honest opinions and stories. We are proud to partner with many beautiful digital education & travel products and services as an affiliate. On some occasions, we may benefit from a commission when you make a purchase with these links. This commission helps to support the ongoing publication of free and readily available content designed for those who wish to get started in the online business and creator space. This is not financial advice.
