Retford Park National Trust
72 Reviews
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- TuesdayClosed
- WednesdayClosed
- ThursdayClosed
- FridayClosed
- Saturday10 AM–4 PM
- Sunday10 AM–4 PM
- MondayClosed
About the Business
Retford Park – National Trust | James Fairfax AC has always believed that Retford Park should be preserved for the enjoyment and benefit of future generations, particularly those of the local district.On 19 April 2016 in fulfilment of his ambition, Mr Fairfax gifted his historic Retford Park home to the National Trust of Australia (NSW). It was in August 2017 that the National Trust officially took control of the property.Retford Park is a place of great heritage significance; its European history extends back to grants of land promised to Edward Riley senior by Governor Macquarie in 1821.The house was built in 1887 by Samuel Hordern (1849-1909) merchant and stockbreeder, and his wife Jane nee Booth. The house at Retford Park (designed by Albert Bond) is set on a low rise, a grand rendered brick Italianate style residence. It was in 1964 that James Fairfax bought the property and started to turn it from an agricultural property to a gentleman's residence.
Contacts
Call Us
+61248611933
1325 Old S Rd, Bowral NSW 2576
Hours
- TuesdayClosed
- WednesdayClosed
- ThursdayClosed
- FridayClosed
- Saturday10 AM–4 PM
- Sunday10 AM–4 PM
- MondayClosed
Features
- Good for kids
Recommended Reviews
Sam Barsby
27.09.2023
Retford Park National Trust
When planning a short suprise getaway for my husband's birthday I discovered this amazing place and knew we had to go. We were not disappointed. Very friendly volunteers and horticulturist who answered any questions we had about the history the garden. So many different plants and spaces to meander around in. The house is so Beautiful and picturesque a postcard. The hedged plants in front are particularly strong and so well manicured. The maze and different garden rooms were pretty. We visited in winter but would love to come back in Spring! A surprise around every corner. Thanks James Fairfax for gifting your property to the Historic National Trust for us to all enjoy!
Hao Ding
18.09.2023
Retford Park National Trust
Peacefully weekend place to be , if you love to hear story ,please join 12:15pm house tour and national trust staff will take you to visit this house and you can enjoy the day. Tour take one and half hour , garden will take another one hour , please prepare 2-3 hour for yourself .
Sling Adventures
11.09.2023
Retford Park National Trust
A hidden highlands gem.Home to the late John Fairfax, the estate is now managed by the National Trust who host open day events that allow you to explore these decadent gardens and buildings.With a perfectly designed pool to manicured gardens including an Emu encolsure and doggy cemetary, it is definately a varied and eclectic mix.Subscribe to the National Trust to find out about upcoming events.
Eva
25.08.2023
Retford Park National Trust
This is a beautiful place with expansive gardens. The driveway into the property is almost two kilometers. There are a few different themed gardens and it’s a pleasant experience just walking in this tranquil place. In addition to the garden tour, there is also a house tour, which at the moment is only available at the weekends. Best to book in advance.
John Barsby
20.08.2023
Retford Park National Trust
We were lucky to spend an hour wandering around the beautiful and expansive grounds of Retford Park. There is such a variety of different garden areas. An orchard, larged hedged rooms, sculptures, swimming pool, pond and sunroom, garden rooms, chicken house, stables, magnificent hedged planting out the front with a fountain and beautiful old trees scattered throughout. The staff were really nice including the kind Horticulturist on hand to chat and answer any of your questions. A really pleasant experience. Hoping to go back in Spring and see the house too. Hoping James' dog Celini is still there too. Highly recommended.
Two Sheds
17.08.2023
Retford Park National Trust
Beautiful spot to wander around on a nice day. Superb house and other buildings. Beautiful garden.
Christine Townsend
12.08.2023
Retford Park National Trust
Beautiful gardens and grounds. The house is magnificent, we haven't seen inside yet but we will go back on a weekend when it's open.
John Tanner
10.08.2023
Retford Park National Trust
Beautifully maintained house and gardens. It is open the first weekend of every month and has light refreshments available or else Bowral is only a 5 min drive away with plenty of cafés.
Chintanshuddhi Saraswati
27.07.2023
Retford Park National Trust
What an extraordinary place this is. We visited on a rainy summer's day and were treated to a sumptuous experience. The dining room with its murals reminded me of Tibetan themes (although Australian) and I loved the 'homely' feel of the house with its eclectic elegance. Already planning to return for an autumn garden visit.
Jackson “Jax20”
23.07.2023
Retford Park National Trust
The grandest and most beautiful home protected by the National Trust. Imposing and ornate on the outside, and the inside is filled with priceless treasures of the previous owner, Mr Fairfax. The guided tour is very interesting and the gardens are divine with beautiful old trees and statues abound. As you enter to buy your tickets it's a small shop that includes art from local artists you can purchase along with other knick knacks. A short walk within the grounds of Retford will find Ngununggula, the southern Highlands regional gallery and a cafe that had great food + coffee. I would definitely recommend a visit, especially if you are in the southern Highlands!
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Map
1325 Old S Rd, Bowral NSW 2576
Retford Park National Trust